Best attractions and places to see around Puddington include historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic river locations. This area offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, with opportunities to explore ancient mills, historic parks, and tranquil waterways. The landscape features rolling hills and pastoral views, characteristic of the region.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • River
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Puddington.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A lovely old castle but be aware of the steep hill ahead... 'Alpe d'heuz' style!
0
0
Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
5
0
Bickleigh Mill is an 18th century water mill which is still working to this day. The Mill is now also home to shops and eateries. With its gorgeous riverside location it is a lovely place to start or finish a walk, or stop partway along to refuel.
5
0
Scooped some water out, filtered it and a made a coffee.
3
0
B&B & holiday cottages available. Good centre for exploring Devon from an attractive and historic setting.
0
0
Great place for lunch or a Devon cream tea (cream first, jam on top - the proper way - this is Devon!). There's also a gift shop adjoining.
0
0
Bickleigh Castle is a lovely manor house on the banks of the River Exe. Although the main building was destroyed during the Civil War, the central courtyard and other historic buildings still stand today. The original Norman motte castle was built in the late 11th century. Nowadays, the castle is used to host weddings, but it's still an interesting place to stop and take a look.
0
0
This proud, medieval church stands on the edge of Shobrooke village and, like so many churches in the area, has wonderful views over the rolling, pastoral landscape. The church dates back to the 15th century but the interior is considerably younger, mostly Victorian. If you hike up the lane opposite towards the village centre, you'll find the holy well embedded into a grassy bank on the eastern side.
3
0
Puddington and its surroundings offer several historical sites. You can visit Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn, an 18th-century working water mill with shops and eateries. Another notable spot is Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge, a historical park spanning 180 acres with grand lakes. Additionally, St Swithun's Church and Holy Well is a medieval church dating back to the 15th century, offering wonderful views.
Yes, several attractions around Puddington are suitable for families. Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn offers a historical setting with shops and places to eat by the river. Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge provides open spaces for exploration within its 180-acre grounds. The Fisherman's Cot Pub is also noted as family-friendly, situated by the River Exe.
The area around Puddington boasts beautiful natural features. You can enjoy the grand lakes and sweeping vistas at Shobrooke Park Lake and Stone Bridge. The Fisherman's Cot Pub and Bickleigh Bridge are both located by the scenic River Exe, offering lovely riverside views. St Swithun's Church and Holy Well provides views over the rolling, pastoral landscape and includes a holy well.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails available. For example, you can explore the 'Exe Valley Way: Bickleigh Loop' which is an easy 2.7 km hike, or the 'Bickleigh Bridge – Bluebell Wood Path loop from Bickleigh' which is around 6.9 km. You can find more options and details on the easy hikes around Puddington guide.
Beyond visiting the attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking routes, including moderate options like the 'St Mary's Church loop from Copplestone' (10 km) or the 'Hiking loop from Upton Hellions' (12.2 km). Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the 'Tiverton Town Hall – Nile Tides Canal Boat Café loop from Rackenford' (47.7 km). Explore more options in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Puddington.
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of history and natural beauty. At Bickleigh Mill, the 18th-century working water mill and its riverside setting are highly appreciated, often serving as a lovely starting or finishing point for walks. The grand lakes and sweeping vistas of Shobrooke Park are also a favorite. Many find the peaceful, pastoral views from places like St Swithun's Church to be a highlight.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Bickleigh Mill & The Bridge Inn houses shops and eateries in a charming riverside location, perfect for a meal or a Devon cream tea. The Fisherman's Cot Pub is another popular spot, situated right on the banks of the River Exe, offering a lovely setting for a drink or meal.
Yes, Bickleigh Bridge is a historically significant spot. This picturesque 17th-century bridge is famously associated with local legend as the inspiration for Paul Simon's song 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. It's a single-carriageway bridge over the River Exe, often busy, so caution is advised when crossing.
While the main attractions are highlighted, the broader Puddington area in Cheshire also features other unique historical structures. These include the Grade II* listed Puddington Old Hall, a 15th-century timber-framed house, and Puddington Hall, a country house built in the 1870s. There are also associated structures like a late 18th-century dovecote and 17th/18th-century courtyard farm buildings, all contributing to the area's rich heritage.
From the northern edge of Puddington, particularly along Puddington Lane, you can enjoy scenic views towards the Dee estuary and the distant Welsh Hills. The village maintains a strong rural character, with varied hedgerows and mature trees enhancing the landscape.
While not directly within Puddington, the nearby Burton Marsh Boardwalk offers a 7.5km return route suitable for cycling or walking, providing beautiful views towards North Wales on clear days. The River Dee Riverside Trail and Millennium Greenway also offer traffic-free routes for these activities in the broader region.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: