Tiverton

Tiverton is a town on the River Exe in Devon, England. The town is on the west bank of the River Exe, about 1 mile (1.6 km) from its confluence with the River Culm.

The name Tiverton derives from Twy-ford-ton or Tweforton, meaning ‘the town on two fords’, and was historically known as Twyford. The first record of Tiverton Castle dates from 1106, although it is probable that there were earlier fortifications on the site. The castle was built by order of Henry I, who put into effect his father’s wishes that he secure this strategically important crossing point of the River Exe on the main route from London to Cornwall.

In 1140, Tiverton Castle was besieged and captured by King Stephen of England. The town’s defences were subsequently strengthened and the castle rebuilt in stone. The town became an important regional market town, handling much of the trade in wool from Devon. By the end of the medieval period, it was one of the wealthiest towns in Devon.

The town’s market charter dates from 1256, and its status as a borough was confirmed by a charter of Edward III in 1334. Market Street is lined with 17th- and 18th-century buildings, including the Town Hall (1750) and the Chapel of St Lawrence (1754). The Guildhall is a 14th-century building that was extensively remodelled in the 17th century.

The town has a number of historic buildings, including Tiverton Castle, which was built in the 11th century by order of William the Conqueror. The castle was greatly enlarged in the 13th century and again in the 15th century.

Created: 10  September  2022  Edited: 29  November  2023