Tourists, residents, and ramblers alike come from all over to visit Tavistock in Devon and make the magical town what it is today – a diverse town with a rich mining history and a close community.
The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape was added to the exclusive international list of World Heritage Sites back in 2006. It covers parts of the centre of Tavistock and the border with Cornwall.
With over 20,000 hectares spread across Cornwall and West Devon, the permanent protection of this countryside and its mining landscape is important to people who live locally.
Approximately 12,675 people call Tavistock their home according to the 2021 Census.
Situated at the very heart of the historic town is the ancient Pannier Market which is home to many stalls and traders.
Speaking to Devon Live, Richard Westacott-Jones, 62, owns the business Talking Rubbish, and he says retail has become soulless in cities.
He said: “We’ve created an environment in Tavistock where there are a lot of independent retailers and people who are passionate about what they sell and want to engage with the public.
“People want to wander around here and speak to people. It tells from the amount of Plymothians that come to Tavistock on a regular basis – lots and lots of them.”
Locals say they look out for one another from friendships to supporting businesses.
Amanda Coles who runs the flower shop, The Little Garden On The Square, said: “The town is very communal and likes to keep everyone together.
“It’s the feeling of the place. So many people in Tavistock including our customers like to shop local and they love to support local businesses and that’s what we love about it.
“They’ll come and spend their hard-earned money with us and that’s really quite special. In summer we get a lot of tourists, that really helps us and the other businesses. We’re here (at the outdoor flower stall) in all weathers, all year round, and we really love it.”
Also speaking about Tavistock’s success, Jacky Hudswell, 62, works at Country Cheeses and has been trading for over 35 years.
She added: “I think it’s because it’s got the independent shops. People I speak to often remark on that and say that in other places it’s all chains.
“It’s such a thriving town, we have a lot of events going on throughout the year. There really is something for everybody.”
All year round there are festivals, markets, and exhibitions – these include Tavistock Arts Market, Cream Tea Week and Goose Fair.
