Chittlehampton

Located in North Devon between South Molton and Barnstaple, Chittlehampton was in medieval times a thriving pilgrimage destination. 8th-century legend has it that when the village was struck by drought, a local girl Hieritha's stepmother feared that the drought was caused by her step-daughter's new faith. She incited several haymakers to murder Hieritha. On the spot where she fell, a stream burst forth from the earth and scarlet pimpernels began to blossom. The stream fed into a well, whose waters were reputed to have healing properties. On 8th July each year, a procession walks from the lychgate of the towered church at the top of the square to the site of her martyrdom. The well is blessed, and the procession returns to the church where her special hymn is sung and children lay posies of flowers on her tomb.

Situated in the peaceful village of Chittlehampton, Hope Cottage is believed to date back to the 16th century when it was part of a tavern, 'The Rolle Arms', one of a number of pubs & inns in the village that provided rest and sustenance for the visiting pilgrims. Now there is just the Bell Inn, an award-winning family pub, with a great selection of ciders and gin as well as excellent food. We recommend booking as it gets very busy. There is also the excellent Chittlehampton Village Shop, Tea Rooms & Post Office, which provides a wide range of homemade cakes, meals, butchery and local produce.

If you would like to delve a little more in to the history of Chittlehampton see: https://www.devonperspectives.co.uk/chittlehampton.html

There are some beautiful walks around the village, the Cricket team plays on the pitch just up from the house, and local ceramic artist Roger Cockrams' studio is also in the village. 

Chittlehampton is ideally situated for exploring this stunning part of the country with all its beautiful scenery, amazing beaches and rugged coastline.