Axminster Heritage Centre, Axminster, Devon
When you’re on your family holidays in Devon, when you go out and about it’s good to discover something of the places you visit, so if you go to Axminster, go to Axminster Heritage Centre. It’s actually quite impressive what they’ve done here, with displays that trace the town’s history right back to the Bronze Age.
What Axminster is known for throughout the world is its carpets – everybody’s heard of Axminster Carpets, haven't they? It was here that manufacture started in 1755, in time attracting notable customers, with carpets made for Chatsworth House, Powderham Castle, Warwick Castle and The Royal Pavilion, Brighton. A nod to this important Axminster story is that the Heritage Centre is housed in a building that was once a carpet factory, built by the family that started the business.
Wander the two floors and you’ll see displays that show what’s shaped the town; in medieval times there was a significant abbey just outside of the town, where a very bloody battle was fought, in the 19th century agriculture became a huge part of life in Axminster, with livestock markets in the town square and cattle driven through the town.
A visit to Axminster Heritage Centre is a fascinating insight into life over the years, centuries, even, in this small and peaceful town. The people who work here are very helpful and knowledgeable, and if you’re thinking the young ‘uns might get bored – they won’t; the children’s trail with interactive activities and dressing up points should keep them amused. Tack on a promise for treats at The Community Waffle House across the road and Bob’s your uncle.
Open: Mon-Fri 10:00am-4:00pm Sat 10:00am-1:00pm
T: 01297 639884
All information correct at the time of writing