Devon Diary

What is on in Devon?
Within this section we have tried to showcase activities, days out, sports and events, fun for the family and dates of interest. Clearly we cannot due justice to every event held in Devon but hope you find this brief summary of interest. If you are holding an event in Devon you may add this to Devon's Finest Devon Diary at no charge simply contact us for information.

Devon Dates for 2008

The Devon Diary has been updated for 2008

The inaugural Dartmoor Classic in May 2007 was a massive success by any standard. It attracted a capacity field of 1200, with places selling-out well in advance of the big day, establishing it as one of the biggest and best sportives in the U.K.

As Cycling Weekly columnist Huw Williams wrote in his post event article: "The sense of achievement is always greater in arduous conditions and here it was huge. Anyone who completed the 2007 Dartmoor Classic will be dining out on the story for years. It takes a lot more than rain to hide the true nature of an event like this and it’s clearly a ride that will come to deserve its ‘Classic’ tag in years to come. The infrastructure is solid, entry and sign-on were streamlined and efficient, marshalling was impressive, food and drink was bountiful at the control points and there was even a trophy for everyone who finished. I don’t normally say this when I’ve been through hell, but I’ll be back."

Probably the most important changes this year, particularly for those who rode the first edition of the Dartmoor Classic, are the two new routes which will give you more moor for your money; 70% of the 100 mile route is over parts of the moor not covered in 2007.

What is a Cyclosportive? Rapidly becoming the country's most popular cycle sport discipline, Cyclosportives are long distance, mass participation challenges over demanding terrain, with established events now selling out within days of entry acceptance. Although Cyclosportives are not races, finishing times are recorded, which encourages the fittest riders to chase the fastest times, while the majority are just happy to complete the distance within the time allowance. The severity of the course coupled with the time restriction make cyclosportives much harder than the average charity ride and those who take part must be well prepared for their stamina and courage to be put to the test.

Dates 2008 11/05/2008 - 31/08/2008
Plymouth Summer Festival

Address:
Various locations in Plymouth
Plymouth
Devon

Tel: 01752 306330

Website: http://www.plymouthsummerfestival.com

Plymouth Summer Festival 2008 kicks off with the start of the world-famous Transat Race on May 11 from Plymouth’s Sutton Harbour. The historic single-handed trans-Atlantic yacht race is an exciting and colourful spectacle with appeal for everyone. The race has become synonymous with Plymouth since the inaugural race in 1960, won by sailing legend Sir Francis Chichester.

Other key highlights during the three month festival include:
- Live tennis and open air film screenings in Plymouth City Centre with the return of the
Wimbledon Big Screen from June 23 - July 6
- British Fireworks Championships on August 12 – 13
- Plymouth Flavour Fest - the UK’s biggest and best free farmers market celebrating the
finest Westcountry produce taking place from August 15 – 17.

More events are being confirmed regularly, and include top name concerts at Plymouth Pavilions, fabulous productions at the Theatre Royal (including Mary Poppins in June/July) and a vibrant programme of cultural and artistic events being hosted by the University of Plymouth, the Barbican Theatre and Plymouth Arts Centre.

Avril Lavigne will add a heavy dose of attitude and style to the festival as the punk-pop dynamo takes to the stage at Plymouth Pavilions in June. Laughs will be provided courtesy of British Comedy Award winner Jimmy Carr in his one man show, while Paul Merton will show off the very best in comedy improvisation in with his highly talented impro Chums.

Northcote Manor
Wine Tasting Luncheon ~ 11th June in association with Christopher Piper Wines. Carol Marriott will be giving a talk on her own ventures in New Zealand and we will be sampling some of this delicious wine. £35.00 per person to include four courses with accompanying wine.
Call 01769 560501

Ilfracombe Town Criers Competition 2008
Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! Meet the criers and enjoy the experience of some thirty criers in one of the largest competitions of its type in the UK.
From: 14/06/2008 to 15/06/2008

Goldcoast Oceanfest 2008
Braunton, Croyde The 9th GoldCoast Oceanfest takes place against the majestic backdrop of North Devons’ Gold Coast on the golden sands of Croyde Bay. Attracting world class sporting and music talent, the midsummer weekend in June is filled with fun in the sun.
From: 20/06/2008 to 22/06/2008

Woolacombe International Sandcastle Competition 2008
Woolacombe & Mortehoe Marvel at the amazing sand sculptures which result from this event on one the finest beaches in Europe. The competition features teams from local companies and teams from Italy, France and Spain.
From: 6/07/2008 to 06/07/2008

Lundy Island Gig Race 2008
Clovelly Gig race from Clovelly around Lundy Island and back. Cornish pilot gigs were designed to carry pilots out to ships inbound to the ports around the South West. The first one alongside got the job, so speed and seaworthiness were critical.
From: 12/07/2008 to 13/07/2008

Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta
Dartmouth regatta is a huge extravaganza with air displays, music, rowing, tennis, running, yacht races, children's activities, a fun fair, fireworks, plus much, much more for the whole family.
From: 28/08/2008 to 30/08/2008

Lobster and Crab Feast 2008
Clovelly
The age-old tradition of catching lobsters and crabs at Clovely still flourishes and we thought it worth celebrating, so this year we are holding our first lobster and crab feast.
From: 07/09/2008 to 07/09/2008

Dates 05/07/2008
2008 Tour of Exmoor

Address:
Pendragon Sports
The Old Rectory
Sutton Montis
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 7HD
Tel: 01963 220137

Website: http://www.tourofexmoor.com/index.html
Email: postmaster@pendragon-sports

We saw post on a cycling forum that suggested that southern Sportives were easy! Well that got us thinking that our neighbours up North had never done the Tour of Wessex, probably because it was too hard, it is three days afterall and they just go in for single day events up there. In any event we decided to it would be a shame not to take up the challenge of a single day sportive in the South to equal or even surpass that of legendary northern routes.

Those of you that have never ridden in Exmoor can only imagine what is in store, those that have will know any route in this area is not to be taken on lightly.

Dancing stars visit English Riviera, for dance festival
The English Riviera Dance Festival steps off next month with a week of social and competitive dancing in Torquay.

The festival opens on May 30. Hosted by the Victoria Hotel, part of TLH Leisure Resort, it offers additional dancing taking place at Torquay Town Hall, and is run and organised by dance specialists and regular visitors to TLH, Philip Wylie and Pam Peters of Holiday and Dance.

This year will be the 26th time the dance festival has been hosted by TLH. It will include workshops and master classes with top teachers and dance champions including Vincent Simone and Flavia from the popular TV programme Strictly Come Dancing and Lynette Boyce, World Ballroom Champion and the very first winner of the British National Amateur Ballroom Championship.

Demonstrations from past and present juvenile, junior and senior British and world champions will take place throughout the week.

Two ballrooms will be in constant use at the Victoria Hotel, plus there will be gala evenings and events held at the town hall.

Philip explained: “Last year was the 25th anniversary and following on from the outstanding success of the event, it’s a thrill and a challenge to go on developing the festival.

“The festival has developed over the years it has run and it’s exciting that this year not only are we showing outstanding young dance talent but also that the exceptional TV dance celebrity couple, Vincent and Flavia will be returning to the town hall as outstanding personalities as well as superb dancers.”

He added: “It’s going to be a superb event with two ballrooms at the Victoria Hotel in constant use and the town hall full of dancers and masterclasses. There’s going to be a range of social and competitive dancing and it’s going to be a unique festival.”
The event is supported by Torbay Development Agency and Torbay Council and the full programme also includes Michael Stylianos and Lorna Lee with Latin demonstrations and Stephen and Jennifer Hillier show-casing modern techniques.

The week will run from May 30 to June 6
TLH Leisure Resort consists of the Derwent, Victoria, Carlton and Toorak Hotels, plus self-catering apartments, all providing a choice of indoor and outdoor leisure facilities for holidaymakers and locals alike.
More information can be found at www.tlh.co.uk

For further information please contact Julia Browne, TLH Leisure Resort marketing co-ordinator on 01803 400111



A Summers Evening of Musical Repertoires ~ With Siona Stockell and Friends ~ Friday 11th July
We will be hosting an evening of scintillating music. Local musicians and graduates of the Royal College of Music have put together a wonderful programme. The evening will be filled with light classical favourites. Arrive from 7.00pm and enjoy a glass of pimms and canapés on the lawn.
Call 01769 560501

The performance will begin around 7.30pm,. Following the performance a delicious 3 course supper with coffee and homemade petit fours. £50.00 per person including pimms, music & Dinner (Special rates for accommodation)

Northcote Manor
Sizzling Summer Sundays through July & August ~ July 6th - 13th - 20th - 26th & August 3rd - 17th & 24th
Richie & his brigade will be lighting the BBQ from 12.30pm on the patio in our walled garden overlooking the Japanese water garden.

Relax in the conservatory area and enjoy our beautiful grounds, finish off the afternoon with a game of croquet overlooking the Taw Valley ~ the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Our BBQ's are £9.95 per adult, children under 5 are free. Bookings are advisable but not necessary.
Call 01769 560501

Northcote Manor
Summer Break offer Dine & Recline Midweek...
Book now and enjoy the best available room or suite for only £200.00. Sunday - Thursday on a first come basis. The price is per room, per night inclusive of three course evening meal in our award winning restaurant, breakfast and VAT @ 17.5% for two guests sharing.
Call 01769 560501


Event: Clovelly Maritime Festival
in support of the North Devon Hospice
Date: Saturday and Sunday, 19 - 20 July 2008
Time: From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Location:Clovelly Harbour

Our third annual Maritime Festival, once again held in support of the North Devon Hospice, with something for all ages to enjoy: juggling, Punch and Judy, puppet theatre, shanty singers, treasure hunt, a hog roast on the beach and much more.

Great Lundy Island Gig Race - now to take place on Saturday 12th July, 2008
departing 1500 hrs from Clovelly returning Sunday 13th July departing Lundy at 1000 hrs.

An annual gig race from Clovelly around Lundy Island and back. Cornish pilot gigs were designed to carry pilots out to ships inbound to the ports around the South West. The first one alongside got the job, so speed and seaworthiness were critical.
The modern gig is still built to the same specifications. This is not racing in calm estuarine waters, but ocean racing, battling against wave after wave in what is, after all, nothing more than a large rowing boat.

There are only about 140 active gigs in the world. For more information on gigs, please see www.clovellygig.org

Event:Woolsery Show
Date:Monday, 28 July, 2008
Time:Show opens at 9:00 a.m.
Location:Clovelly Court

Agricultural show. Main Ring attraction: King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery with gun carriage and static displays.
Entry fee: £5 A and £3.50 C
Website: www.woolseryshow.org.uk

Event:Clovelly Rum Race
Date:Saturday, 2 August 2008

One of two Ilfracombe Yacht races, which take place each year from Ilfracombe to Clovelly.


Event: Lifeboat Day
in aid of the R.N.L.I.
Date:Sunday, 3 August 2008
Time:From 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Location:Clovelly Harbour

A great day out for all the family, packed full of fun and action down at the harbour.

Dartmouth Shakespeare Week 5-9 August

Dates 09/08/2008 - 16/08/2008
Dawlish Carnival and Air Show

Address:
Dawlish
Devon

Tel: +44 01626 215665

Website: http://www.dawlishcarnival.co.uk
Email: info@dawlishcarnival.co.uk

As August gets underway, it sees the start of the Dawlish Town Carnival and its Carnival Week. Run by the Dawlish Carnival Committee, the week is one of the, if not the biggest event of it’s kind in the Southwest of England. With over 10 events running each day throughout the week from 10.00am onwards it really is a show that is not to be missed!

The week runs from the 9th until the 16th August 2007, with a full range of fun packed events for the whole family to enjoy everyday. This years programme includes The Red Arrows Aerobatics Display Team, Junior Field Gun Run, Soap Box Derby, It’s A Knockout, Carnival Idol, Fancy Dress, Airshow and Procession.

With spectators travelling from far and wide it would be no surprise if the biggest topic in the town will be the Carnival, with last year a recorded number of 90,000 spectators over 8 days was recorded, with 60,000 spectators for the Airshow and Procession!

The Airshow/Procession this year falls on Thursday 14th August. The Airshow will take place from around 12 noon on the sea front, and will see the likes of the Red Arrows and Blue Eagles among the many displays, this will be followed by the procession which has been said to be “The Biggest And Most Lively Procession On The South Devon Circuit” but every carnival is it’s own. Line up will take place at 5.15 followed by judging. The procession will start promptly at 7.15am.

To wind down the day the Carnival Committee once again invites you to a party on the Lawn, with pig roast/bar and live entertainment from the Real Steel Band.

This year we introduce some new events and shows such as Carnival Idol, A singing, and talent contest for people in Teignbridge. With the 9 finalists chosen, they will now prepare to battle it out in our grand final during carnival week. A Fashion show and Fishing Competition are also among the new events.

Programmes will be on sale during August around the town’s local shops and business where you will be able to see full programme listings and times.

We look forward to seeing you at this years event, and remember our motto, arrive early and leave late, then you won’t miss a thing!

Northcote Manor
Jazz on the Lawn ~ Sunday 10th August
This favourite is back by popular demand. Tickets £10.00 per person.
Roger Marks Armada Jazz Band will begin playing from 2.30pm and finish at 5.30pm. Bring your own picnic or our chefs can create a delicious picnic for you to collect on the day to include 1/2 bottle champagne.
Call 01769 560501

Event:Pilot Gig Regatta
Date:Sunday, 17th August 2008
Time:Departing about 12 noon
Location:Clovelly Harbour


Dates 28/08/2008 - 30/08/2008
Port of Dartmouth Regatta Royal Regatta

Address:

Dartmouth
Devon

Tel: +44 01803 834224

Website: http://www.dartmouthregatta.co.uk
Email: rendl@tiscali.co.uk

The first Recorded Regatta in Dartmouth was in 1822. There were three sailing races, one six-oared gig race, and a military band played out at the Dartmouth Castle and 120 attended a ball.

Today the regatta has turned into a huge extravaganza with air displays, music, rowing, tennis, running, yacht races, childrens acitivities, a fun fair, fireworks, plus much much more for the whole family. Everyone should pay a visit to Dartmouth during regatta at least once.

Dates 05/09/2008 - 07/09/2008
Ilfracombe Folk Festival

Address:
The Landmark Theatre
The Promenade
Ilfracombe
Devon
EX34 9BZ
Tel: +44 (0)1271 324242
Website: http://www.northdevontheatres.org.uk

An exciting new weekend event featuring over twenty five artists, representing the best in the folk and acoustic music, simultaneously across three stages: the theatre, Pavilion and marquee on the green. You choose which stage, which artists, space permitting.

Friday night is free and will showcase well known North Devon songwriters, traditional musicians and new wave folk in the Pavilion from 8pm, but numbers will be limited. The line-up features special guest Bob Fox plus Chris Millington, Steve and Trish Ruffé, Debbie O'Shea with Steve Colwell and 3cameby.

Performances on Saturday and Sunday run from midday to midnight. In addition to the music there will be trade stalls, real ales, fine foods and music sessions led by M'Larkey on Saturday and The Oggle Band on Sunday. These sessions begin at 12pm in the Pavilion and are open to all, feel free to bring your instruments and join in.

Event:Lobster and Crab Feast
Date: Sunday, 7 September 2008
Time: From 10 a.m.
Location:Clovelly Harbour

First time festival in celebration of Clovelly’s lobsters and crabs with outdoor kitchen on
the quay: ‘Try before you buy’, recipes, food & craft stalls, barbecue, folk musicians along with entertainment for children too.

Normal admission charges. Event may be subject to change, so please consult www.clovelly.co.uk for latest details.

Event: Winkles Race from Ilfracombe to Clovelly
Date:Saturday-Sunday, 13-14 September 2008

The final race of the season, competing for a very fine Silver Cup donated by a Barnstaple jeweller.

Northcote Manor
Murder & Mystery Weekend ~ September 19th - 21st Ring for more info.......
Call 01769 560501


Dates 2008 05/11/2008

Tar Barrels

Address:

Town Centre
Ottery St Mary
DEVON

Tel: +44 01404 813964

Website: http://www.otterytourism.org.uk
Email: info@otterytourism.org.uk

Every year on November 5th for reasons lost in antiquity, the Flaming Tar Barrels are carried through the streets of Ottery St Mary to the delight of thousands of townsfolk and visitors.

Ottery St. Mary is internationally renowned for its Tar Barrels, an old custom said to have originated in the 17th century, and which is held on November 5th each year. Each of Ottery's central public houses sponsors a single barrel. In the weeks prior to the day of the event, November 5th, the barrels are soaked with tar. The barrels are lit outside each of the pubs in turn and once the flames begin to pour out, they are hoisted up onto local people's backs and shoulders.

Opinion differs as to the origin of this festival of fire, but the most widely accepted version is that it began as a pagan ritual that cleanses the streets of evil spirits.

It is an incredible night to remember - one of the biggest bonfires in the South West is ignited on the banks of the River Otter and behind it are the flashing neon's of the annual fun fair.

Dates 2008 14/11/2008 - 16/11/2008

Teignmouth Jazz Festival

Address:
Bank Street
Teignmouth
Devon
TQ14 8AW
Tel: +44 01647 253115


Website: http://www.teignmouthjazz.org
Email: ian@teignmouthjazz.org

The Friends of Teignmouth Festival is celebrating its 11th anniversary this year and whilst we succeeded in making the 10th year one of the most successful festivals we are aiming even higher again!

Subject to dates printed in the South Devon Guide 2008, Teignmouth Jazz festival is taking place on 14th to the 16th November 2008.

We have a new additional venue at Coast View. There will be a scheduled full sized coach running between the town and Coast View at regular & fixed times to coincide with the musical programme.

Whether you prefer New Orleans, Swing, Modern or Contemporary, there will be something to delight your ears, a stroller ticket enables you to expose yourself to music you may not have experienced before. There is a wide choice of hotels, restaurants and cafes to suit all pockets and there is spectacular scenery, quaint lanes and a friendly Devon welcome which all combine to offer a great weekend.

This year there is no clash with the Teignmouth Winter Carnival so getting in and out of the town and parking will not be a problem.

Doors Open at 7.30pm, and the concert commences at 8pm. Tickets are £8.00 full price, £7.00 concessions (unemployed, OAP, disabled, students, and musicians’ union members), £5.00 for members of the Friends of Teignmouth Jazz Festival and £3.00 for 14-17 year olds. Under 14’s will be admitted free if accompanied by an adult.

Event:Clovelly Herring Festival
Date:Sunday 16 November 2008
Time:From 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Location:Clovelly Harbour

Second festival to celebrate the King of fishes, once the staple economy of Clovelly, in the crusade to help conserve dwindling fish stocks, safeguard the livelihoods of fishermen and promote neglected, but great-tasting species like the herring.
Meet Mike Smylie, maritime historian and writer, and see his Kipperland exhibition,
Smokehouse and demonstrations of fishing skills and crafts. Quay kitchen with tastings, shanty singers, special promotion of Devon cider and wine and more.

Event:Christmas Lights in aid of the R.N.L.I.
Date:Sunday, 7 December 2008
Time:About 4 p.m.
Location:Starting from the Visitor Centre, Clovelly

Don’t miss the annual tradition of switching on Clovelly’s fairy lights. Follow the procession down the cobbles, accompanied by a brass band, then look out for Santa’s arrival!
Harbourside carols, mulled wine, barbecue and more to spread some seasonal good cheer,
with a fireworks grande finale.

Entry free from 2:00 p.m. Small parking charge.


Event dates are correct at the time of publishing however before making any arrangements you should confirm with event organisers.

Exeter
A city full of heritage and culture, Exeter has a wealth of attractions to suit all tastes, from its stunning Gothic Cathedral to its beautiful and historic Quayside. Whether you are interested in shopping, sightseeing or simply relaxing, Exeter has plenty to offer.

Explore Exeter’s colourful past and hidden secrets with the Red Coat Guided Tours. These free 90 minute tours run daily throughout the year and are guaranteed to enthuse and excite whatever your age! Discover the city’s turbulent past with the Ghosts and Legends or Murder and Mayhem evening tours. You can learn more about Exeter’s history at the Quay House Visitor Centre, a 17th century building displaying lively illustrations, artefacts, and 2000 years of history described in just 15 minutes through an exciting audio-visual presentation.

Exeter Cathedral is an imposing structure of beauty and antiquity in the heart of the city with its stunning architecture inside and out. In the beautiful surroundings of the Cathedral Close, you will find historic pubs and restaurants serving delicious local food and drink, or for an excellent mix of restaurants serving cuisine to suit all tastes, head for Exeter’s side streets such as the cobbled Gandy Street, or the European piazza style Bedford Square. With food halls serving the best and freshest of seasonal local produce and weekly farmers markets, you will be spoilt for choice in Exeter.

With all the best bits within easy access, a good choice of accommodation to suit all needs, and great local food and drink, you are sure to have an enjoyable visit to Exeter.

Exeter’s Underground Passages
Exeter's Underground Passages re-opened in September 2007 with a brand new visitor centre packed with interactive exhibits and improved interpretation. A guided tour of Exeter's Underground Passages is a memorable event - narrow, dark, interesting and exciting. These are the only passages of this kind open to the public in Britain.

Address:
2 Paris Street
Exeter
EX1 1GA
Tel: 01392 665887

Website – www.exeter.gov.uk/passages

Opening: June – September & School Holidays Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5.30pm (last tour 4.30pm); Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm (last tour 3pm)
October – May Tuesday – Friday 11.30am – 5.30pm (last tour 4.30pm); Sunday 11.30am – 4pm (last tour 3pm).
Please allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes for your visit, which includes a 10 minute film presentation, a 25 minute tour of the Passages and an opportunity to explore the new exhibition.

Quay House Visitor Centre
The Quay House building was used to store cloth and other goods before they were loaded and transported down the canal. It also had an overhanging roof, which enabled cargos to load and unload out of the rain. Today the history and development of Exeter's Quayside is brought to life with lively displays, illustrations and artefacts. There is also the opportunity to see "Exeter - 2,000 years of history," an exciting audio-visual presentation highlighting Exeter's history from Roman times to the present day. The Quay House Visitor Centre also provides tourist information, Quayside treasure hunts, an accommodation booking service and a gift shop selling local pottery, replica maps and a wide range of local interest books.

Address:
46 The Quay
Exeter
EX2 4AN
Tel: 01392 271611

Opening: April – October Daily 10am – 5pm; November – March Saturday & Sunday 11am – 4pm. Admission Free Website - www.exeter.gov.uk/quayhouse

Exeter’s Red Coat Guided Tours
These free guided walking tours are the perfect way to explore Exeter. No booking is required, simply choose a tour, meet your Red Coat Guide and spend 90 minutes discovering one of the oldest cities in England. Tours begin outside the Royal Clarence Hotel in Cathedral Yard, or from the Quay House Visitor Centre.

Opening: Operating every day throughout the year except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Tel: 01392 265203 Website – www.exeter.gov.uk/guidedtours

Exeter Visitor Information & Tickets
Exeter Visitor Information & Tickets provides a wide range of services to help make your stay in the area as enjoyable as possible. Exeter Visitor Information stocks a wide variety of information on places to visit, activities and events in the local area and the rest of the region, as well as information on transport and other local facilities. Exeter Tickets sell tickets for local theatre productions and a wide range of special events in the city.

Help can be offered with:
 Accommodation bookings
 Brochures and leaflets
 Bus and train times
 National Express tickets
 Tickets to various attractions and theatre productions
 Day trips from Exeter
 Events information
 A wide range of maps, local books and souvenirs

Address:
Dix’s Field
Exeter
EX1 1GF
Tel: 01392 665700
Fax: 01392 665260
Email: evit@exeter.gov.uk
Websites: www.exeter.gov.uk/visiting www.exeterandessentialdevon.com
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm; Sundays in July & August 10am – 4pm; Bank Holidays 10am – 4pm. Reduced opening Christmas & New Year.