Customs & Traditions
The Tamar Valley, a picturesque region that gracefully bridges the border between Devon and Cornwall, is steeped in cultural heritage and time-honoured traditions that speak of its distinct character. This enchanting area has a rich history shaped by both its industrial and agricultural heritage that once played a pivotal role in local livelihoods.
Remnants of this past are still celebrated today through events and customs that pay homage to the valley’s rich heritage. The Tamar Valley is home to a variety of vibrant local festivals, where music, food, and community gatherings create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Together, these enduring traditions offer visitors a captivating insight into the region’s fascinating past and the strong sense of identity that continues to thrive in its local communities.
Mining Heritage
The Tamar Valley boasts a profound and enduring connection to its past, a relationship that has significantly shaped local customs and cultural practices for centuries. This rich heritage is recognized as part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring the valley’s important industrial past. Moreover, the community takes great pride in preserving these traditions, ensuring that the stories and experiences of past generations are not forgotten.
Throughout the year, a variety of events celebrate this heritage, ranging from guided tours that explore historic mining sites to engaging storytelling sessions that recount the lives of miners and their families. Historical re-enactments also play a key role, offering immersive experiences that bring the Valley’s mining legacy to life. Together, these activities ensure that the Tamar Valley’s proud industrial past remains an integral part of its cultural identity.
Tavistock Goose Fair
A remarkable tradition with a history spanning over 700 years, the Tavistock Goose Fair is a cherished annual event that takes place on the second Wednesday of October in the historic stannary town of Tavistock. This long-standing fair has its roots in medieval times when farmers would bring their geese to market in preparation for Michaelmas, a significant date in the agricultural calendar. In those days, the streets would be filled with the sights and sounds of honking geese being herded through the town, a memorable spectacle that became closely tied to local tradition.
While the fair has evolved over the centuries, it remains a lively and popular occasion that continues to draw crowds from across the region. Today, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of market stalls selling a variety of goods, alongside thrilling fairground rides, delicious local food, and handcrafted items from talented artisans. The Tavistock Goose Fair offers a wonderful blend of history and entertainment, celebrating the town’s heritage while providing a fun-filled experience for all ages.
Calstock's Creative Culture
The charming riverside village of Calstock, nestled along the banks of the River Tamar, is renowned for its vibrant and flourishing arts scene. This pretty village has long been a focal point for artistic expression, with traditions deeply rooted in music, theatre, and storytelling. The village’s rich cultural identity is brought to life through a variety of events and performances that celebrate both local talent and visiting artists.
At the heart of this creative community is the Calstock Arts Centre, a beloved venue housed in a beautifully converted chapel that serves as a gathering place for artists, musicians, and audiences alike. The centre hosts an impressive range of performances throughout the year, from intimate acoustic concerts to captivating theatre productions and engaging poetry readings.
Seasonal events further enhance Calstock’s artistic spirit, often showcasing folk music, storytelling sessions, and visual art exhibitions that pay tribute to the Tamar Valley’s cultural heritage. These gatherings provide a platform for both established and emerging creatives, ensuring the region’s artistic traditions continue to thrive.
Visitors to Calstock are often drawn not only by its picturesque riverside views and iconic viaduct but also by the warm and welcoming atmosphere cultivated by its vibrant arts
Wassailing in the Orchards
An enduring West Country tradition that thrives in parts of the Tamar Valley is ‘wassailing,’ a lively and ancient ritual intended to bless apple trees and promote a bountiful harvest. Rooted in folklore, this custom typically takes place in midwinter, around Twelfth Night.
Wassailing at National Trust Cotehele is a cherished annual tradition that draws locals and visitors alike. Participants gather in its orchards to sing traditional wassailing songs, make noise to ward off evil spirits and bless the apple trees to encourage a fruitful harvest. The festivities are often accompanied by music, dancing, and mulled cider, creating a joyful and communal atmosphere that celebrates both nature and local heritage.
Another key part of the ceremony involves pouring mulled cider around the base of the trees or placing cider-soaked toast in the branches — a symbolic offering to the orchard spirits known as ‘apple tree men.’ The event is filled with warmth and camaraderie, with participants sharing stories, songs, and plenty of mulled cider to keep the winter chill at bay.
This charming and much-loved tradition remains particularly popular across the rural communities of the Tamar Valley, where locals proudly uphold the custom as a way of celebrating their agricultural roots and fostering a strong sense of community.
Local Food and Produce Markets
The Tamar Valley is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, which is celebrated through its vibrant local food and produce markets. Tavistock Farmers’ Market, held very second and fourth Saturday in the town’s bustling square, offers a fantastic selection of fresh, locally sourced produce. Visitors can browse stalls filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, cheeses, and homemade preserves, all proudly supplied by local farmers and producers.
Just a short walk away, the award-winning Tavistock Pannier Market provides another excellent shopping experience, with traders offering everything from local delicacies to handmade crafts. Together, these markets showcase the Tamar Valley’s rich food culture, creative set, and entrepreneurial spirit while supporting local businesses and connecting visitors to the region’s thriving community of growers and artisans.
Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, the Tamar Valley comes alive with a rich calendar of festivals that celebrate the region’s history, natural beauty, and vibrant creative spirit. These events provide a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the area’s cultural traditions while enjoying lively entertainment and engaging activities.
In addition to larger festivals, smaller seasonal events are held in villages throughout the Valley, celebrating everything from traditional crafts and local produce to environmental conservation and artistic expression. These gatherings reflect the strong sense of community that defines the Tamar Valley, bringing people together to share in their heritage and creativity.
Whether exploring historical exhibits, joining a folk music session, or taking part in family-friendly activities, visitors to the Tamar Valley’s festivals are sure to leave with a deeper appreciation of this remarkable and culturally rich region.
