Welcome to the
Blackdown Hills Directory 2010 of local products & services
Whether you have lived in the area for many years or you are a first-time visitor, we aim to help you to discover the wide range of Blackdown Hills businesses ready to serve you, your home or your own business.
You may be surprised by the breadth and diversity of what is on offer locally - so don't travel long distances without looking here first. There is a multitude of every day products and services that all serve to keep our local economy vibrant. In addition, the area provides some very innovative businessses from IT and the creative industries through to small-scale manufacturing of very individual products.
In recent years there has been a resurgence of interest in locally produced food and drink and the Blackdown Hills boasts a number of food producers who will sell at their farm gate, at farm open days, through box scheme deliveries and whose meat, vegetables, fruit, beer and cider can be found on the menu in local pubs and restaurants.
If you have time to spare why not have a day out or enrol on a short course? There are seasonal events to appeal to all tastes throughout the year or you may prefer to explore the hills for yourself. There are hidden gems tucked away in the hills - try seeking out Castle Neroche, for example.
For visitors, we are within easy reach of the local market towns of Ottery St Mary, Honiton, Sidmouth, Seaton, Axminster, Chard, Taunton, Wellington and Tiverton where you will find many independent shops, galleries, museums, etc. The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Jurassic Coast is a short journey away.
Should you or your visitors need somewhere to stay, there is a range of bed & breakfast accommodation, guesthouses, pubs with rooms, campsites and hotels to suit every taste and pocket. The Blackdown Hills are easily accessible with good road links (via the M5, or A303) and rail links (via Taunton, Tiverton, Exeter and Honiton), making it perfect for a short or long activity break, or a restful stay in a traditional cottage. Don't forget if you are travelling from the south east or the north west, the Blackdown Hills offers you the perfect half way break if you are on route to the tip of Cornwall.
We hope you find this directory useful.
Val Baker
Blackdown Hills Business Association