CREDITON.

The Crediton Inn is known as the "Kirton Inn" to the local population. The central figure of the seal of Crediton depicts Saint Boniface, the patron saint of Germany, who left Crediton some 1,500 years ago in an attempt to convert the godless hordes of Europe (Huns, Visigoths etc) to Christian ways.  The actual name of Crediton has changed with the centuries passing.  For example apart from its modern name it has been called Credyton, meaning "town on the river Credy" now known as the river Creedy. When Sir Frances Drake was giving the Spanish Armada a hard time in the English Channel, Crediton was known as Kirton.  Indeed, there is an old ditty that goes, "When Exeter was nort but a furzey downe, Kirton was a thriving town." At the time of Exeter being nothing but a "furzey downe" (scrubland), Crediton's church was classified as a Cathedral.  Although no longer so, we still have a Bishop of Crediton.  Going back to Sir Frances Drake, it is well documented that he spent many a happy hour in the numerous hostelries of the Exeter area. In those days, Exeter (and Topsham) were major ports for sea going sail craft.  as the square riggers left Exeter on the ebb tide they dragged chains astern to stir up the silt and therefore keep the channel open.  However, with the introduction of coal and oil fired ships this practice was dropped, the owners quickly realising that the dragging of chains cost money.  As a result, the channel today to Exeter is only navigable by the smallest of pleasure craft.

Enough of the history lesson what about the Crediton Inn. The "Kirton" is a very friendly town local pub - all are equally welcome. They specialise in traditionally brewed British cask ale served from beer engines (hand pumps) on the bar.  Do NOT believe people who say British beer is warm and tepid, if served properly, in good condition, at the correct temperature (54-56C) it is a superior product. If you wish to play Skittles, Darts, Pool or Chess all are available. Food is traditional pub food including three types of locally cooked Cornish Pasties.  My favourite is the Beef 'n Stilton!!! It's not an easy pub to find: on entering from Exeter, take the first turning right signposted "Tiverton" and they're the first pub on the right. From Barnstaple go past the Church, take the first turning left signposted "Tiverton" and it's the first pub on the right.