Colebrooke Parish in Devon

The Parish of Colebrooke lies in Mid Devon, west of Crediton, and includes Colebrooke, Coleford and Penstone. This independent historical collection brings together accounts of the parish’s farms and houses, people and families, churches, village events and changing rural life.

Explore the Parish’s History

Choose a subject or search the growing collection of research, stories and recollections:

• Historic farms, houses, inns and mills — an A–Z index of places and buildings in Colebrooke, Coleford and Penstone.
• People of the parish — residents, families and personalities remembered in local accounts.
• Parish Chronicles — unusual events, newspaper stories, village traditions and memories.
• St Andrew’s Church and its bells — church history and the separate history of the bells.
• Search parish history — look for a particular surname, building or subject across the site’s articles.

About Colebrooke

The village of Colebrooke lies just west of Crediton, offering stunning views across the Devon countryside. At its centre stands the historic St Andrew’s Church, a Grade I listed building that has served as a spiritual and social hub for centuries. The village features a strong sense of identity, with regular community events, parish meetings, and rural traditions that continue to thrive.

Coleford – A Small but Vibrant Community

Just a short distance away, Coleford is a charming hamlet known for its character cottages and peaceful surroundings. With easy access to Crediton and local walking routes, it’s a haven for those seeking a tranquil village lifestyle in the heart of Devon. For a closer look at Coleford’s village life, historic buildings and intriguing local stories, visit Coleford, Devon — the village website ↗.

Penstone – Countryside Charm

The hamlet of Penstone sits quietly amidst fields and streams, showcasing Devon’s natural beauty at its best. Popular with walkers and nature enthusiasts, Penstone offers a glimpse of rural life untouched by modern development, making it a special part of the wider Colebrooke parish.

Local Life & Community

The parish’s story is preserved through family memories, newspaper reports, maps, photographs and the history of its buildings. The independent parish books bring together longer studies, while the Parish Chronicles record individual episodes from local life.

For present-day meetings and official parish notices, use the Parish Council website linked below.

History & Heritage

The lands later known as Colebrooke were included within the Manor of Crediton at the time of the Domesday survey in 1086; Colebrooke itself is not named separately in Domesday. A reference to the parish appears in Bishop Bartholomew’s correspondence with Henry II, usually dated to about 1170. Read why Colebrooke is called Colebrooke and the fuller history of the manor for the evidence and the limits of what can be established.

Visiting Colebrooke Parish

Colebrooke is located just 5 miles west of Crediton and about 12 miles from Exeter, making it an ideal countryside destination for visitors seeking quiet landscapes and local charm.

For those interested in heritage tourism, walking, or exploring Devon’s hidden gems, Colebrooke, Coleford, and Penstone offer an authentic experience of English rural life.

Get Involved

Readers with memories, photographs or carefully sourced corrections about the parish can get in touch through our contact page. For official parish news, meeting notices and council services, use the separate Parish Council website.

Learn more about the Parish Council →

The Parish of Colebrooke – preserving Devon’s rural heritage and community spirit for generations to come.