Buckfastleigh Library

The library sits on the main road through Buckfastleigh, a modest Victorian building that's easy to miss if you're driving through to South Brent. It's a proper community space - the kind of place locals actually use, not just a tourist spot. Inside you'll find a sensible collection of fiction, non-fiction, and reference books, plus computers if you need to check emails during your holiday.

It's mainly for serious readers after a rainy afternoon read, or anyone after local history materials about the area. The limited opening hours mean you need to plan around it - mornings on Tuesday and Saturday work best, or Thursday and Friday afternoons. Admission appears to be free, though best to ring ahead to confirm current arrangements.

If you're staying at Ashbourne Woods, just over two miles away, the library makes a short detour on a wet day. Don't expect to spend more than an hour there. It's not a destination in itself, but a useful pit stop for families wanting a quiet morning activity or to grab a book for evening reading at the park. The real draw around here is the Buckfastleigh Steam Railway and the Abbey - the library just happens to be convenient when you need shelter from Devon's notorious drizzle.