Axminster, Devon
Axminster is a small and quiet town on the River Axe in East Devon. It’s big claim to fame is that it’s the home of the world famous Axminster Carpets that have been made here since the middle of the 18th century and adorn the floors of historic houses and public spaces like Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Brighton Pavilion, Chatsworth House, and Twickenham Stadium.
There are two supermarkets in Axminster, so that’s all well and good if you need a few provisions, but whilst you’re here you should have a stroll around. You’ll find several independently run shops, some of which have set up home in the former Trinity House department store, including an excellent bookshop and upstairs, The Community Waffle House. If it’s Thursday morning there will be a happy buzz about the town because that’s when the market is on in the square by the church; you can fill your basket with fruit and veg, local cheeses, bread, meat and pastries, stop for a coffee or a curry, and quite often, there’ll be something on around the church green as well.
It’s always good to find out a bit about the places you visit and there’s a plethora of fascinating information at Axminster Heritage Centre, not just about the carpets, but also focussing on the other aspects of history, trade and life that have shaped the town.
Just down the road is the Axe Valley Wildlife Park and only a few miles further, the beaches of the beautiful Jurassic Coast. Make a day of it.
All information correct at the time of writing