Ottery St Mary

What does Ottery St Mary offer?

Discover the charm and history of Ottery St Mary, nestled in the heart of East Devon, UK. This quaint and picturesque town, rich in heritage, boasts a community spirit like no other. The peaceful streets are lined with an array of unique shops and traditional pubs, while the surrounding architecture, steeped in character, tells a story of a time gone by. One cannot miss the impressive St Mary's Church, a miniature version of Exeter Cathedral, which stands as a testament to the town's historical significance. Immerse yourself in the town's vibrant culture and traditions. Ottery St Mary is renowned for its annual Tar Barrels event, a unique and exhilarating spectacle that draws in visitors from across the globe. The surrounding countryside, with its stunning landscapes and scenic walks, is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the tranquil River Otter, enjoy a leisurely picnic in one of the many lush green parks, or venture a little further to the breathtaking Jurassic Coast. In Ottery St Mary, there's always an adventure waiting at every corner.

Top attractions in Ottery St Mary

1. Cadhay Historic House: A Tudor manor house brimming with history and elegance, Cadhay House offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Its beautiful gardens are a haven for green-fingered enthusiasts.

2. Ottery St Mary Parish Church: This stunning church, known for its detailed architecture and tranquil surroundings, is a must-visit. Its resemblance to Exeter Cathedral has earned it the nickname 'The Mini Cathedral'.

3. Escot Park: An ideal family outing, Escot Park offers a blend of natural beauty and fun-filled activities. The woodland playground, birds of prey displays, and red squirrel encounter are just a few highlights.

4. The Tumbling Weir: This unique circular weir is a marvel of engineering and a beautiful sight. Situated adjacent to the Ottery Mill, it's a serene spot for relaxation.

5. Pixie Day: A tradition held in June, Pixie Day is an event full of fun and merriment, where the town's children re-enact a pixie's attempt to silence the church bells. It offers a unique insight into the local culture and folklore.

Best areas to live in Ottery St Mary

1. Cadhay: This historic manor house offers a serene environment and striking views. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle enveloped in English history.

2. Tip Hill: A sought-after residential area with convenient access to schools, shops, and Ottery's amenities. It's an excellent choice for families.

3. Metcombe: Nestled in the beautiful East Devon countryside, this area is perfect for those looking for a rural lifestyle yet within easy reach of local amenities.

4. Tipton St John: This charming village on the banks of the River Otter offers a friendly community and a range of beautiful properties.

5. Sandhill Street: A central location boasting beautiful period homes, close to the heart of Ottery St Mary.

6. West Hill Road: This area offers a mix of detached and semi-detached properties, many with ample gardens and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

7. Gosford Lane: Perfect for those who prefer a quiet, suburban environment, Gosford Lane offers a range of property types with easy access to leisure facilities.

8. Slade Road: Located close to the Otter River, Slade Road provides a tranquil setting with a variety of property sizes and styles.

9. Winters Lane: Ideal for families, this area is close to excellent schools and offers a range of property styles, from modern homes to charming cottages.

10. Chineway Gardens: A modern development area with a mix of contemporary style homes, perfect for young professionals or families wanting to settle in a vibrant community.

Best things about living in Ottery St Mary

1. Quintessential Countryside Charm: Ottery St Mary is nestled in the heart of East Devon's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This idyllic setting lends itself to picture-perfect scenes of rolling hills, quaint cottages and peaceful riverside walks. It's the epitome of the tranquil, rural lifestyle.

2. Fascinating Historical Significance: This village is steeped in history, with a wealth of heritage buildings such as the St Mary's Church, Cadhay House and the Tumbling Weir. It's also the birthplace of famous poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, which adds a unique cultural significance.

3. Community Spirit: Ottery St Mary is known for its strong sense of community. The events held throughout the year, such as the famous Tar Barrels event, Ottery Food & Families Festival and Pixie Day, bring the community together and offer a true taste of rural life.

4. Outdoor Activities: For those who love the great outdoors, there's a plethora of walking and cycling routes in and around Ottery St Mary, providing stunning views of the East Devon countryside. The River Otter also offers opportunities for fishing and wildlife spotting.

5. Local Produce: East Devon is renowned for its quality local produce and Ottery St Mary is no exception. Several farm shops, markets and independent retailers offer a range of fresh, locally sourced foods. The town also boasts charming tea rooms and traditional pubs serving delicious home-cooked meals.

Drawbacks to living in Ottery St Mary

1. Limited Entertainment Options: Ottery St Mary is a small, rural town, which might not be appealing to those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life. The options for nightlife, shopping, or cultural activities are quite limited compared to larger cities.

2. Limited Public Transport: The public transport services aren't as frequent or extensive as in larger towns and cities. If you don't own a vehicle, getting around can be a bit challenging.

3. Fewer Job Opportunities: The job market in Ottery St Mary is quite narrow, mainly focussed on local businesses and farming. Those seeking corporate or high tech jobs may need to commute to larger cities, like Exeter.

4. Lack of Diversity: Being a small town, Ottery St Mary lacks the diversity that larger cities can offer. This applies not only to food and culture, but also to the range of people one might encounter on a daily basis.

5. Rural Isolation: Although the countryside can be peaceful, it can also feel isolating for some. This might not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer a more social or cosmopolitan lifestyle.

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