Explore the area

A brief history of Newton St Petrock

The village of Newton St Petrock has been here since 500AD, when it’s said that St Petrock himself stayed here. There are a number of stories about him leading dragons away from the village and releasing them at Padstow, in Cornwall. His well, which has been recently excavated, can be found to the West of the church (we can direct you, if you’d like to visit). It’s very unusual, as it measures around 3m across and is more of a plunge pool, than a conventional well. The water rises from deep underground, heating it to around 14 degrees celsius, but not quite warm enough for an ancient jacuzzi!

The church of St Petrock, dates from around the 12th century, but it’s thought that an earlier wooden structure would have preceded the current stone one. This is open each day, if you’d like a visit. Look out for the stone font, thought to be the oldest feature of the church, as well as the Medieval tiles on the floor. Notably, the stone pillars have worn over the centuries, from many shoulders leaning on them.

Outside the church is the ancient oak tree. There are many theories as to how old it is, but most seem to be between 600-700 years old. Despite its centre being hollow, it continues to live.

The area we are located in, is known as Higher Coombe. Up until the 1800s, Higher and Lower Coombe were originally about 300m to the East, in the field behind our paddock. The earliest recorded inhabitants were John atte Combe, in 1333. This may be linked to the motte and bailey castle of Durpley, just across the river.

Today, Higher Coombe consists of Coombe Farm and the old converted barn, which is where we are.

Recent archaeological research here, has revealed a number of prehistoric features, such as Bronze and Iron Age enclosures, as well as a Stone Age spearhead, dated between 6000-9000 years old!