Widely regarded as one of Devon’s most unspoilt villages, Gittisham is a picturesque collection of thatched cottages, white-washed cob walls, and a meandering stream (the River Gitt). Often described as a “journey back in time,” this former estate village has successfully preserved its tranquil, harmonious character, making it a must-visit for those exploring the rolling farmland of the National Landscape.

Key highlights:

Historic Architecture: Almost the entire village is a designated conservation area. At its heart lies the Grade I-listed St Michael’s Church, an exceptionally attractive building featuring rare 18th-century box pews and fine monuments to the families of the Combe Estate.

Bronze Age Heritage: Above the village on Gittisham Hill, you’ll find a landscape of ancient ritual. The ridge is dotted with prehistoric burial mounds (tumuli) and barrows.

The Combe Estate: The village’s history is inextricably linked to the Combe Estate. The nearby Elizabethan manor, now the celebrated hotel THE PIG at Combe, offers stunning views across the valley and maintains beautiful kitchen gardens that reflect the area’s rich agricultural heritage.

Customs and Traditions: Gittisham is home to unique local traditions, such as “Toeing”—a house-visiting custom held every Shrove Tuesday where children chant for pennies, carrying on a tradition that has lasted for generations.