MODBURY

Modbury dates from the 8th century and takes it's name from the Saxon for "meeting place"
(Moot Burgh). The town developed around three steep streets which converge on the town's
coaching house (Exter Inn).

Modbury has numerous arts & crafts, antique and unique shops clustered around the Exeter Inn.
Many retain the period frontages and the traditional retail outlets, such as butcher, baker
etc still ply their trades at the highest level of professionalism.

Modbury's most influential period was due to the Champernownes family. The sons included Sir
Humphrey Gilbert (established the colony of Newfoundland), Aidrian Gilbert (discovered the
North West Passage), and Sir Walter Raleigh. An unusual reminder of the family's presence is
a granite fireplace lintel set into the pavement outside the White Hart Inn.

The Exeter Inn was a Royalist meeting place during the Civil War and two battles were fought
around Modbury in 1642 and 1643. The Cromwell army routed the Royalists who eventually fled
in retreat along the street known to-day as "Runaway Lane".


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