Stokenham — Devon, England
Stokenham is a small village located within the Parish of Stokenham in the South Hams of Devon. This coastal Parish is protected by conservation measures and is designated as an Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB).
The Parish of Stokenham is comprised of the southern half of Start Bay from Slapton Sands to Start Point and on to Lannacombe Beach. It includes Torcross, Beesands, Hallsands, Kellaton, Kernborough, Dunstone, Beeson, Chillington and the village of Stokenham. The coastline economy has been dependent on fishing and farming, however, the temperate climate and the quiet, quaint atmosphere of the area has caused an influx of tourism, especially during the summer months where on sunny days the beaches are popular for water sports and swimming enthusiasts.
The east end of Stokenham shares a border with the southern end of Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve, the largest freshwater lake in South West England. The Ley is a 200 acre freshwater lake formed after the last ice age some twenty thousand years ago. It is separated from the sea by only a narrow stretch of shingle. It is part of the AONB, has the largest complex of reed beds in Devon, and has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as it is important for its large population of birds; which also attracts bird watchers and nature lovers from around the world.
Historically, Stokenham dates back to Saxon times and the village of Stokenham still remains small and exquisitely quaint with its thatched roofed cottages and only a few modern bungalows on the fringes of the village. The church of St. Michael and All Angels, whose origins are believed to have been Norman, most likely was an Anglo-Saxon minster church. During 2007 and 2008 the churchyard became an area of archaeological interest. The University of Exeter held a public dig in Manor Field, seeking the remains of a medieval manor. The dig is part of research to trace the development of the village from its prehistoric and Saxon origins through to the present day. The public was invited to join the search, which produced some medieval artifacts from the manor house which stood in the village for 300 years and then disappeared.
Stokenham is also home to Widewell Plantation, an ancient eight acre wood. The woodland walks can be quite steep in places; however there is a wonderful view that overlooks Start Bay. This beautiful Plantation has been opened to the public by the courtesy and consideration of Ed & Jane Welch.
Where is Stokenham?Stokenham is a village located in the South Hams of Devon along the A379. The nearest populated areas include Chillington to the east and Torcross to the west.
Have you ever visited Stokenham?Is Stokenham your favourite place to stay during the holidays? Should Stokenham be on everyone's list of must-see travel destinations? Tell us why, we're interested. Let us know what you think about Stokenham — your comments may be published on this website.
