Between Exeter And Plymouth Is The 'Southern Gateway To Dartmoor National Park' With Antique Shops And Charm

In Southern England, comfortably situated between Exeter and Plymouth, Ashburton blends history, nature, and modern-day comfort. The city, which dates to at least the Saxon era, is a former medieval tin-mining town that has transformed into a collection of independent shops, galleries, and antique stores near the historic Dartmoor National Park, home to one of Britain's oldest forests.

Ashburton continues to embrace its storied past as it accepts modernity. The Ashburton Museum, housed within a former brush factory, shares the town's long history. Each year Ashburton hosts its annual summer carnival, which has been a staple since 1880. It's a rural setting, but its charming atmosphere continues to embrace visitors and residents alike. Visitors will find colorful pastel facades in the center of town, with many buildings adorned with flower boxes.

Ashburton's popular market square is as active today as it was centuries ago when it was a center of tin and wool trade. The town sits near the River Dart, which offers scenic nature views. But for those truly looking to step into nature, Ashburton is perhaps best known for its title as the "southern gateway to Dartmoor National Park." In fact, several organizations within Ashburton provide scenic tours of the park. For those looking to explore the park on their own, the border is just a short drive from downtown Ashburton.

Considered one of the "last great wildernesses" in the United Kingdom, according to Visit South Devon, Dartmoor National Park offers a glimpse into the region's past across 368 square miles. Within its borders visitors not only encounter a diverse range of wildlife and geology, but also signs of human civilization dating back 10,000 years. Ruins of round houses and stone rows within the park are believed to be the largest concentration of Bronze Age ruins in England. The park is also home to several hill forts from the Iron Age.

One of the most popular natural attractions in the park is the Tors, a collection of more than 160 granite formations that are estimated to be millions of years old. More adventurous visitors often climb the boulders for unique photo opportunities. High Willhays, the park's highest point, reaches more than 2,000 feet. From the summit, hikers can catch a glimpse of the Welsh Mountains and the Bristol Channel.

While Dartmoor might not be as popular as the Peak District, England's first national park, it does offer some of the most diverse landscapes and wildlife in England. The park provides an expansive nesting ground for a variety of birds. The most popular animals to spot in the park, however, are the famous Dartmoor ponies. The ponies are considered semi-wild and have been a part of the ecosystem of Dartmoor for thousands of years. The ponies are cared for by farmers who still live and work within the boundaries of the national park.

While Ashburton offers plenty of modern conveniences and easy access to Dartmoor National Park, it's perhaps best known as a top destination for antiques. The town's appropriately titled Antique Trail is a collection of more than 10 unique shops offering varied collections by different antique dealers. Ashburton's Antique Trail has been featured on popular British television shows like Antiques Road Trip and The Antiques Riviera.

The shops line several streets within Ashburton, each offering their own individualized selection of antiques. Odds & Suds focuses on interior design and furniture while also selling its own brand of soaps. The Shambles is another popular stop for antique hunters, offering glassware, French linen, and English country furniture via several antique dealers in one location. The shops also work together to offer tips and assistance to anyone looking to sell or upcycle their own antique pieces.

The best way to explore the Antique Trail is on foot, since the individual shops are within walking distance, although the easiest way to reach the town of Ashburton is by car, especially for those looking to explore nearby Dartmoor. The closest airport to Ashburton is in Exeter, 25 miles away. Exeter Airport offers several different car rental opportunities to make commuting to Ashburton easiest.