Great Torrington today has a vibrant community and people in the town, are proud of their heritage. This is certainly apparent as you make your way around the town and the surrounding area, and adds to the enjoyment of everything it has to offer.

Be sure to visit Dartington Crystal. This nationally famous factory was established by the Dartington Trust and has been developed over the years so that it is now not only one of the main industries in Torrington but also a premier tourist attraction.

In the Visitor Centre you can have a crystal cast made from your hand or foot, watch demonstrations and a 10-minute video, or be dazzled by the collection of historical Dartington pieces. Feeling artistic? Paint a glass to your own design, try your hand at blowing your very own glass or make your own glass bead necklace.

Try the Factory Experience and see the world famous Dartington Crystal being made by their glassblowers. Alternatively visit the on-site shops which include probably the largest glass shop in the UK, or take a little refreshment in the 200 seat Licensed Restaurant. Whatever the weather, there is plenty to fire your imagination.

Head to South Street and you will find a store dedicated to the traditional craft of soap and toiletry making, known as The Soap Kitchen. Once inside the aroma of sweet scents and the vibrancy of colours will set your senses tingling.

It began as a small family run business for Richard and Lesley Phillips, making quality cold process soaps from pure and natural ingredients. Over time they developed their own unique recipes as a result of lengthy experimentation at home. Today’s selection is still based on their original recipes but has been ‘refined’ over recent years, tailoring their range to meet the wants and wishes of their discerning customers.

All their own labelled range of soaps is still hand made in Torrington using only pure vegetable oils. They also make and stock many other hand made and hand finished soaps and toiletries, plus a wide selection of other quality gifts, so whatever it is you’d like you’re sure to find it right here.

If you're looking for a great family day out, come along to RHS Garden Rosemoor. More than a garden, Rosemoor is a unique place that people of all ages return to time and again for ideas, inspiration or simply to enjoy a fun family day out.

Spanning 65 acres, Rosemoor is set in the beautiful Torridge Valley. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from the stunning gardens (including Lady Anne's original garden, the rose gardens, the formal and informal gardens, the fruit and vegetable garden, the arboretum and the cottage garden) to the Woodland Walks, a range of Children's Trails and lots of exciting activities for the whole family.

Rosemoor holds over 70 special events throughout the year, which include creative workshops for children and adults, family days, craft fairs, musical and dramatic evening performances and horticultural walks round the garden. For more information, please ring 01805 624067 for a FREE brochure.

In addition, there is a licensed Restaurant with beautiful garden views where you can enjoy a delicious bite to eat and our superb Plant Centre and Shop provides a wealth of the most exciting, rare and beautiful plants and a delightful selection of beautiful gifts, local produce and drinks.