From the late 1700s the abundance of fast flowing rivers attracted mill owners from the north of England. They developed the Mid Devon fabric, textile and lace industries in town and rural locations throughout the area. This early "industrialisation" reached its peak in the late 19th century and strong links still remain.
Working textile and paper mills still operate in the Cullompton area and some of the splendid country homes and gardens built by early mill owners are among those now open to the public.
Local museums trace the development of Mid Devon from the earliest times and feature the action-packed history of the area - the local lace and textile influence, the Civil War, the Grand Western Canal, the coming of the railway and much more.
