History of Cornwall and Devon

The first remains of a basic society in Cornwall dates back to 4500 BC – primative stone tools have been found from this era indicating the existence ofa settlement (in a town called Redruth).

Cornwall saw an "invasion" from the Celts during 1000 BC – the Celts were warriors from Europe and were largely the ancestors of current day Cornish folk.

Devon is believed by many historians to be one of the very first places in England to have settlers. Indeed, Dartmoor (a National Park in the centre of Devon) still offers a lot of prehistoric sites of interest. Further it’s from Plymouth that the Pilgrim Fathers first set sail to the Americas – and also where Sir Francis Drake went off to battle the Spanish Armada.

Dartmoor also is home to some of the oldest structures in England – primitive buildings and remains include stone circles, burial mounds and ancient settlements.

While the Roman invasion of Britain left Cornwall largely untouched the same cannot be said of Devon. The Romans took over much of current day Devon - including a port at Topsham and a legion at Exeter.

The Romans were no longer controlling Devon by around 400 and by 800 it had fallen under the rule of Wessex (King Egbert).

During the 14th & 15th century, Devon was under serious threat from the French who raided the Devon coastline.

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Introduction

About Cornwall and Devon

Accommodation in Cornwall and Devon

Getting to Cornwall and Devon

Useful Information

Brief History of Cornwall and Devon

Cornish Food and Drink

Diving and Surfing

River Cruises

Steam Train Excursions

The Castles of Cornwall and Devon