Welcome to Okehampton
Okehampton
The bustling town of Okehampton is proud to be known as the walking centre of Dartmoor, and is the gateway to the northwestern reaches of Dartmoor National Park. The town is nestled in a sheltered valley at the confluence of the East and West Okement Rivers and is surrounded by the high and wild scenery of Dartmoor to the south, and a bucolic landscape of rolling hills and farmland to the north.
History
Okehampton, a historic market town on the northern edge of Dartmoor in Devon, has roots dating back to Saxon times and grew around the Norman-era Okehampton Castle, a significant medieval stronghold now in ruins and a popular tourist site. The town flourished as a centre for the wool and tin trade, bolstered by its 13th-century market charter and strategic location near Dartmoor, which supported farming and commerce. While it retained a rural character during the industrial revolution, the arrival of the railway in the 19th century boosted trade and tourism. Although the line closed in the 1970s, its recent reopening has reconnected Okehampton to Exeter and beyond, underscoring the town’s enduring role in Devon’s historical and economic landscape.
Travel
Okehampton’s travel connections have improved significantly in recent years, enhancing its appeal to both residents and visitors. Once reliant solely on road access via the A30, which links to Exeter, Cornwall, and the M5, the town saw a major boost in November 2021 with the reopening of its railway station. The re-established Dartmoor Line now offers regular services to Exeter, with further connections to London and beyond, improving accessibility and easing road congestion. Local bus routes also provide connections to nearby towns and villages, making Okehampton an increasingly attractive option for those seeking rural living with strong transport links.
Community
Okehampton is known for its strong sense of community, shaped by its rural heritage and active local involvement. Events like the long-running Okehampton Show celebrate agriculture, crafts, and local businesses, while regular markets and festivals foster a spirit of togetherness. Community organisations such as the Okehampton Community Recreation Association (OCRA) and various sports clubs support health, fitness, and social engagement across all age groups. Initiatives like the Community Garden promote sustainability and shared responsibility, while venues like the Okehampton Library and Charter Hall provide spaces for social, educational, and civic activities. Volunteer-led efforts further strengthen the town’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Things to do in Okehampton
Outdoor pursuits abound in and around Okehampton, from hiking some of Dartmoor’s highest reaches, accessible minutes from the town, or taking part in the Army-organized Ten Tors event for young people. Gentler walks are plentiful in the beautiful countryside to the north of town, and Lydford Gorge National Trust site is just a short drive to the south.
Keen cyclists can explore the 11-mile Granite Way, a mostly traffic-free route which crosses the Meldon viaduct offering stunning views.
The town is well provisioned for Sport and recreation with local football and rugby teams, a table tennis club, as well as the Parklands Leisure Centre which offers a 25 m swimming pool, full service gym and sports hall. Health and wellness and a variety of art classes are offered at the local community centre.
Attractions in the area include the Museum of Dartmoor Life in the centre of town, the dramatic ruins of Okehampton Castle, the Victorian Arcade, packed with unique independent shops, the beautiful Simmons Park along the Okemont River and the independent New Carlton Cinema.
