Nestle just off the A30 in the shade of the Blackdown Hills lies the lovely market town of Honiton. This little Devon gem has risen to prominence as a place for local farmers to come and bring their wares to sell. However, it can link it’s history to muhch further back than medieval times. Honiton is also on the route of the ancient Roman road the Fosseway. This links it to Exeter, Gloucester, Cirencester and up to Leicester, so it must have been of some considerable importance to the Roman occupation. It probably acted as a hub, even then, for the many Villa’s and tribal settlements in the area much as it has done throughout the centuries.
The town is great for shopping with Shops in Honiton high street all full to the brim with excellent wares. A List of the shops in Honiton High Street, its historic High street it should be said, is available at the link. Wandering it’s streets of heritage and the past is a very relaxing day and it’s certainly worth spending some time here.
It’s not just shopping. The town has a long history of Lace making. At one time Queen Victoria had a wedding dress made from it. Honiton lace was seen as the best in the world. At one time there were a huge amount of independent lace makers working in the town. Much of this is celebrated in the town’s Museum, a nice little break from the shopping.