Honiton
Historic Market town in East Devon
Honiton is a historic market town famed for its involvement in the lace and pottery industry. It occupies a scenic location on the banks of the River Otter and is part of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Guests interested in furniture and antiques should pay a visit to Honiton during a stay at our Devon caravan and camping park. This small country town is widely considered the antiques capital of the South West and boasts a number of interesting galleries and museums showcasing its industrial past.
There is a pretty high street with a selection of independent shops adorned with colourful flags and floral arrangements as well as some lovely cafes and restaurants. The Georgian architecture has changed very little over the years, so the town has an olde worlde feel.
Things to do in Honiton
Despite its small size there are some fantastic attractions and places of interest to explore during your day trip from Forest Glade Holiday Park. We highly recommend taking some time to visit the Thelma Hulbert Gallery and Allhallows Museum to learn more about the area’s local history.
Thelma Hulbert Gallery
The award-winning Thelma Hulbert Gallery houses an impressive collection of local art and exhibitions that change throughout the year. There is a permanent exhibition of Thelma Hulbert’s still life and landscape paintings, affording visitors and up-close look at these acclaimed works of art.
There’s an exciting programme of workshops and events for visitors to attend, including children’s activities in the school holidays. There are arts and crafts materials available for children to experiment with as well as private guided tours for visitors wanting to learn more from the knowledgeable team.
Allhallows Museum
Allhallows Museum is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of Honiton Lace in the world. Exhibits showcase the intricately woven lace work, with some examples dating back to the early 16th century.
Honiton lace was used to craft Queen Victoria’s wedding dress. Displays detail the workmanship that went into this royal commission alongside exhibits on Honiton Pottery and World War II.
Guests are encouraged to try lace making during a visit to Allhallows Museum. Volunteers demonstrate the skilled process Mondays to Fridays throughout June, July and August.
Events in Honiton
Every year Honiton plays host to a number of interesting invents dating back hundreds of years. We highly recommend checking them out if you happen to be holidaying with us when they’re taking place.
Honiton Agricultural Show
The Honiton Agricultural Show takes place on the first Thursday of August each year. The traditional country show, showcases the local farming industry through a variety of competitions, demonstrations and displays. There are always plenty of stalls to provide and tasty local produce to sample on your day out.
Hot Pennies Day
Hot Pennies Day dates back to the 13th century and takes place on the first Tuesday after the 19th of July each year. During this quirky event people gather beneath pubs and houses along a procession route to gather pennies thrown from the windows above.
Today the pennies are warm and necessary safety precautions are taken. Traditionally, the pennies were made hot by the town’s aristocrats who enjoyed seeing peasants burn their fingers when picking them up.
