Stepping back in time with the Time Traveller himself

 

Higher Uppacott – Grade 1 listed, medieval longhouse

In the first of its fundraising activities, Higher Uppacott – Dartmoor National Park Authority’s Grade 1 listed, medieval longhouse – recently played host to an exclusive (only 20 places were available) literary event with Dr Ian Mortimer, author of the popular Time Traveller’s Guides. Whilst most participants were local to the area, one couple had travelled from Peterborough in Cambridgeshire just to hear Ian’s talk!

‘The Time Traveller’ – Dr Ian Mortimer

The audience was transported back in time to 14^th century Medieval England for a glimpse into rural farm life on Dartmoor, using Higher Uppacott as a prime example, before journeying on, in a virtual sense, to Exeter and experiencing life in the big city – the sights, the sounds and smells!

In true time-travelling style, Ian’s first talk passed by in a flash and then the audience were being tested on their new found knowledge on medieval life by Val Harrison, a local Historic Buildings expert, as she conducted a tour around Higher Uppacott.

A delicious Devon Cream Tea was enjoyed amidst the cosy and informal inner hall setting, before Ian was time travelling again – propelling the audience forward 200 years to the reign of Elizabeth 1 and comparing how life had changed from medieval times.

Fireplace, Higher Uppacott

To illustrate at least 26 changes, Ian conducted an eclectic A – Z of the Elizabethan period before finishing the afternoon off with a welcomed signing of his new book, The Time Traveller’s Guide to Elizabethan England.

All proceeds from the fundraising event will go towards maintaining Higher Uppacott.

If you would like to visit Higher Uppacott then why not take advantage of the Haytor Hoppa Excursion on Saturday evening, 12 May. For just £7.50 pp (£6 pp for groups of four or more), the Hoppa will take people from Newton Abbot train station (1700) and Ashburton (1715)  to Higher Uppacott. You will then be treated to a guided tour of the property before being transported to the Tavistock Inn where you will have time for drinks and supper (not included in the price). Your return to Newton Abbot (via Ashburton) will get you back in time (22:00) for connections onwards to Exeter or Plymouth.
To take advantage of this fantastic opportunity call the High Moorland Visitor Centre on 01822 890 414 or visit a Dartmoor National Park Information Centre.