Blossom Hill - Devon

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About South East Devon

The Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was designated in 1991 in recognition of the special qualities of its natural and built environment. The Blackdown Hills are a group of hills lying on the border of Devon and Somerset. The area extends from Wellington in the north to Honiton in the South and from Cullompton in the west to Chard in the east. The area covers 336 square kilometres, 110 square kilometres of which is in Somerset.

On the edge of the Blackdown Hills, Honiton, has a great deal to offer its many visitors, - a fascinating history, a lively atmosphere and miles of country walks for ramblers, being just a few of the many delights of the town. For centuries Honiton has been renowned for lace, pottery and glove making, and although these time honoured crafts are no longer carried out to their former extent, Honiton has numerous specialist shops dedicated to both lace and pottery.

In 1841, lace makers from the Honiton area were commissioned to supply lace for Queen Victoria's wedding dress. The Queen was so impressed by the quality of the work, so she commissioned a second piece as a christening robe of her eldest son, later to be King Edward VII. This delicately woven lace gown is still in use today.

In more recent years, the town has also become the main centre in the West Country for antiques and antiquarian books. Honiton is a magnet for antique dealers and bargain hunters from all over the world, who come to browse in the 30 or so establishments, or to visit one of the regular auctions.

Strategically situated in South-East Devon, Honiton is one of the traditional gateways into the county of Devonshire, making it an excellent base for people wishing to visit or to tour East Devon.

During the 18th century, fires destroyed many of Honiton's older buildings. The re-building program created much of what we see today - a unique town, which is still largely 18th century in character. Honiton is both an attractive and prosperous town with an excellent shopping centre, holding twice-weekly street markets. It is twinned with Gronau-Leine in Germany and Mezidon-Canon in France, with regular exchange visits taking place between local schools and organisations.

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