There are a few caches around Bovey Tracey already but I wanted to take you on a Mooch around areas you wouldn't normaly visit so I have managed to find a few places to show you around.
You’ll find Bovey Tracey perched on the edge of dramatic Dartmoor, and an ideal base if you want to explore the outstanding natural landscape of South Devon and the moorlands. Known as the gateway to Dartmoor, Bovey Tracey is a charming and historic place to stay, with a strong rural heritage. Taking its name from the river Bovey, the town is an established Saxon settlement, with its second name coming from the de Tracey family who ruled the area after the Norman Conquest. Bovey Tracey was the scene of a major battle during the English Civil War, which ended in victory for Cromwell’s troops. Their names live on today with the Cromwell Arms pub and a ruined priory arch also named after Cromwell..
An archway, known locally as Cromwell's Arch, lies a little off the main street. This is all that remains of a monastery which once stood on the site until it was demolished in 1822. It now serves as a reminder of Bovey Tracey’s connection with the Civil War. In January 1646, the Town was the headquarters of Lord Wentworth. Cromwell's troops are said to have surprised Royalist officers who were playing cards in Fronthouse Lodge in East Street.
The Royalists threw coins out of the windows, leaving the poorly paid Roundheads to fight over the money while they escaped by the back door. The Battle of Bovey Heath was fought the following day with Cromwell’s army winning 400 horses and capturing seven regimental colours. A section of Bovey Heath is a Scheduled Ancient Monument Site and important artifacts from the battle have been found there over the years. Bovey Heathfield is now a haven for rare plants and wildlife, owned and managed by Devon Wildlife Trust.
EXTREME STEALTH IS NEEDED HERE AS IT IS A VERY BUSY AREA..