9 things to do in Tiverton for families
Nestled in the heart of Mid Devon you’ll find Tiverton – a place where the rolling countryside meets the industrial past of the West Country. From trips down the canal to exploring National Trust places and one of the county’s big ticket days out, there are loads of family-friendly things to do in Tiverton.
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Here’s all you need to know about the attractions of this Mid Devon market town:
Contents - jump to what you'd like to know
1. Explore Knightshayes National Trust
Knighthayes National Trust doesn’t disappoint when it comes to looking for things to do in Tiverton, especially with youngsters in tow. You’ll find children’s trails, picnic spots and plenty to captivate young minds inside the house. Its 19th Century interiors hark back to Medieval times, so young princesses and knights will love exploring.
There are loads of National Trust sites dotted throughout Devon, so if you’re not already members, it’s worth investing to take full advantage of them while you’re here.
Find out more about visiting Knightshayes.
2. Visit Tiverton Castle
Another stop on Tiverton’s Medieval tour is Tiverton Castle. Kids love hearing the ghost stories behind the castle’s mesmerising past, while grown ups can have a nosey at the relics from the English Civil War.
Just want to explore the gardens? There’s a reduced ticket price for that. The castle is open on selected dates from Easter to the end of October.
While there’s no refreshment facilities in the castle itself, you can always pop into the nearby town where you’ll find plenty of tea and coffee spots to satiate hungry and thirsty tums.
Find out more about visiting Tiverton Castle.
3. Float down Tiverton Canal
One of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the countryside around Tiverton is a ride on the horse drawn barge on Tiverton Canal.
Feeling more energetic? You can also hire rowing boats.
Find out more about this year’s trips with Tiverton Canal Co.
4. Catch the Mid Devon Show
Hailed as one of Devon’s best day’s out, the Mid Devon Show really is a spectacular event for the whole family.
This show takes place in the grounds of Knightshayes each July and brings locals and tourists together to soak up all of the things that make Devon so great. There’s heaps of entertainment with live music, a livestock area and of course, lots and lots of food stalls.
Kid will particularly love the fairground rides, archery and bouncy castles.
Find out more about this year’s show.
5. Get busy at Diggerland
Kids (and adults) who get excited about big machines will love Diggerland. This one of Tiverton’s pricier days out but a great treat. Children have the chance to be in charge of their own digger or you can jump on a digger ride and play passenger.
Between all of the diggers you’ll also find go-karts, safari rides and an indoor soft play for younger ones.
Read our review of Diggland in Devon and check the attraction’s website for the latest prices and opening times.
Find out more about days out for tram and loco fans in my full guide to steam trains in Devon.
6. Go back in time at Coldharbour Mill
If you’re after things to do indoors in Tiverton, a visit to the Coldharbour Mill is a great option.
It is one of the oldest woollen mills in the UK and while here, you can learn all about the fascinating textile making process. The volunteers even host workshops and events, where you can learn about and create your own items.
When you’ve explored the inner workings of the mill, venture outside to see the gardens and wildlife, you’ll find buzzards alongside smaller birds and other little creatures.
Find out more about visiting Coldharbour Mill.
7. Go loco at Devon Railway Centre
This super family-friendly Mid Devon attraction has steam and diesel locomotives to take you on a journey along the River Exe.
You can also explore the model railway, miniature railways and the classic heritage locomotives so that all enthusiasts big and small can enjoy.
Find out more about days out at Devon Railway Centre.
8. Discover Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life
The penultimate stop on this tour of things to do in Tiverton is to pay a visit to the Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life. Here you can see the story of Mid Devon folk come to life – learn all about the history of the area, the agriculture and the local industries that have helped shape the Devon we know and love.
Kids and adults can play dress up before jumping on the footplate of the museum’s very own steam engine, the Tivvy Bumper.
Don’t forget to pick up your child-friendly explorer backpacks that you can borrow from the front desk. Inside your pack you’ll find books, toys and trails to help you explore the museum.
There’s an entry charge for adults but kids aged 16 and under go free, so this is one of the cheaper things to do in Tiverton as a family and perfect for wet days. It’s also a dog-friendly museum.
Find out more about what’s on at the Museum of Mid Devon Life.
9. See a show at Tiverton Community Arts Theatre
Look out for family shows on the bill at Tiverton’s community theatre. This 300 seat venue hosts comedy, live music and entertainment throughout the year.
Find out what’s on.
Also take a look at my round up of what’s happening in Devon this weekend.
Where to stay in Tiverton
Want to make Tiverton the base for your family holiday? Find a range of guest houses, self-catering accommodation and hotels on booking.com.
More things to do in Devon
While you’re in the area, take a look at my guides to things to do in Mid Devon and Exeter with kids.
Bored kids?
Cappy the Crab’s Devon Activity Book is a digital download packed with puzzles, games and creative sheets to keep your kids entertained during holidays and at home.
RRP: £5.50
