The Commons

Towards the end of the 12th century a ‘large waste called The Common’ was given to the people of Torrington. In 1889 the rights to this land were transferred, by an act of parliament, to an elected Committee of Conservators. They now administer 365 acres of land surrounding the town on all but the eastern side.

The 365 acre commons are freely accessible to all and visitors can walk the 20 miles of footpaths, ranging from Great Torrington Golf Course in the north, ancient wood and wild flower meadow in the west and dropping down to the beautiful river Torridge valley to the south of the town. There is access from the Tarka Trail for walkers.

Car parks are available off the Bideford road to the west (old bowling green), and in Torrington itself.

Great Torrington Commons is a manged by a small group of staff, a board of volunteer trustees, a group of volunteers known as ‘Friends’ of the Commons, and a group of volunteers that help the Ranger with various duties throughout the seasons.

We are a registered charity, relying on donations, grants & funds, and proceeds from our fundraising events. Managing the Commons and keeping the environment safe costs money.

We have created a membership programme called “365 Supporters Group“. By joining us and paying just £2 per month, you can help us to maintain and improve the Commons. Above all, you will help us to preserve the wild and natural beauty of the Commons, while keeping it accessible to all.

The membership card can be used to get a discount in certain shops in Great Torrington. The list of shops is growing, at the current time the shops are as follows.

Collectability
Everything @ no. 11
Fine Floral Design
Hair We Are
Hogwash Soap
Inside 11a
Java Gifts
Lillian Rose Interiors
No. 37
R&S Ware Butchers
Tanya’s Beauty Studio
Unique Boutique
Whiskers Pet Centre
Wildwood and Willow
Xanadu

To sign your business up to the scheme contact Andrew Giles at vicechair@torringtoncommons.org or call 07 956 366 390.