Burrington Conservation Area covers the historic centre of the village. There are two public water pumps within the conservation area. They are among the distinctive features of the streetscape and complement the historic character of the village. If village history and architecture are a particular consideration when choosing somewhere to stay, Burrington offers a clear focus: its historic centre and several buildings with different characteristics. The place can thus be understood through the interplay of its layout, buildings and traces of the past.

Historic Village Centre and Architectural History

London House is a listed house and commercial building, Grade II. The London Inn was formerly located there; the building probably dates from the 18th century. The building that houses The Barnstaple Inn is a listed pub, Grade II, and probably dates from the late 17th century. Church Gate Cottage is a listed cottage, Grade II, and probably dates from the early 18th century. The estimated dates differ: The Barnstaple Inn is probably the oldest, while the other two buildings date from the 18th century. Church Cottage is one of Burrington’s thatched buildings and contributes to the character and appearance of the village. As well as age, its roof design is a distinctive feature.

Church, Open Space and Paths

Several periods can be distinguished at the Church of the Holy Trinity. Construction began around 1150; the oldest element is a Norman font. Parts dating from the 13th century survive in the base of the tower and the north wall of the nave. The approximate start of construction, the oldest element and the later-dated parts together reveal a layered building history. The heavy oak door of the porch has bullet holes, which may have been made by muskets during Cromwell’s time.

The Green is a public open space beside the village hall. It has play equipment and seating; the latter makes it a possible place to take a break. As facilities can change over time, check the current conditions before your visit.

Burrington lay on the old London-to-Barnstaple stagecoach route and still has a complete set of milestones. The route offers a historical glimpse of a long-distance connection; the complete set of milestones is another feature of the local transport heritage.

A described walk is about seven kilometres long and takes approximately two and a half hours at a leisurely pace. One route follows a bridleway to its destination, Mullybrook Mill. The distance and duration provide an approximate timeframe; Mullybrook Mill and the bridleway identify the destination and type of path. Paths, surfaces and access may vary. Therefore, check current conditions before setting out.

Considering Burrington as a Place to Stay

If you choose a place to stay based on historical interest, you may want to consider Burrington in particular if village architecture and local history suit the purpose of your trip. For day planning, the described walk provides an approximate timeframe; the route to Mullybrook Mill adds a named destination for orientation. Check whether this focus matches your travel interests.

Discover more destinations: Cheriton Bishop, Shaugh Prior, Sidmouth, Horrabridge, Parracombe, Ilfracombe, Postbridge, Lamerton

For the broader travel overview: Devon.