Bow

Welcome to Bow

Bow is originally a street-village on the old road between Crediton and Okehampton. Set in the scenic undulating countryside between Dartmoor and Exmoor, Bow is the geographical centre of Devon. Surrounding countryside is a mix of rich red farmland to the north with contrasting environmentally rich grass, trees and woodland stretching to the southern boundary.

With its unusual high cobbled pavement running the length of the main street, Bow village comprises a blend of traditional cob and thatch properties alongside more modern dwellings.

A good regular bus service runs to Exeter, Barnstaple and Okehampton.

Interesting Facts

  • Charles I stayed one night in Bow during the Civil War when he was chasing the Earl of Essex into Cornwall.
  • It is believed that Bow and its neighbouring ‘Nymet’ villages are on the site of a possible Celtic Sanctuary. Nymet comes from the word ‘nemeton’, meaning ‘a sacred grove’.  There is a 3rd millennium BC woodhenge west of the village, believed to have been a centre for pagan worship. Its 19 post holes were discovered by aerial photography in 1984. Please note: this is on private land and not available to public access
  • Uniquely, Bow retains its own water supply. Many households and some commercial premises have enjoyed their own Bow Water since 1859.

What’s On in Bow?

There are regular events at Bow Village Hall, such as live music events, bingo and even cocktail nights!

Places to See

  • Church of St Bartholomew, a Grade I listed building in the neighbouring hamlet of Nymet Tracey.  Local tradition tells that the original church was built by Sir William de Tracey as a penance for his involvement in the murder of St. Thomas á Becket. The face of a de Tracey knight is carved over the south entrance to the church.
  • Historic Celtic Spring (or Holy Well) “Paddocks Well” near the parish church towards Walson Barton.

Places to Eat

  • The White Hart is a traditional public house providing tasty meals
  • Bow Garden and Aquatic Centre is a popular destination for visitors with its Waterside Café serves hot and cold lunches

Nearby

Acknowledgement

Image courtesy of Martin Bodman / Bow: Hillerton Cross / CC BY-SA 2.0

Our thanks to Bow Parish Council for contributing information for our site

Towns and Villages

Features

  • Towns and Villages
Hillerton Cross in Bow