Taw-Torridge Estuary

About the Taw-Torridge Estuary

Located in the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Taw-Torridge Estuary has a wide range of coastal features, from rugged cliffs to wide sandy bays, and pebble ridges to wind-sculptured trees.  

Archaeology around the estuary includes: 

• American practice sites for the Normandy Landings in World War II 
• some of the largest medieval bridges in the country 
• traditional animal shelters called linhays 
• historic quays and the remains of shipwrecks 
• a submerged prehistoric forest 
• the Yelland stone row 

We’re exploring how changes in the climate have affected the local coastline, foreshore, dunes, and mudflats, over the past 100 years. This includes community experiences of physical changes to the landscape and archaeology, as well as how we are using coastal spaces and places differently.   

Get involved  

Between 2025 - 2027 we’ll be working with local groups, heritage institutions, and community hubs to deliver: 

• workshops 
• creative projects 
• coastal archaeology recording sessions 
• walks, talks, and more! 

Check out our events page to find out what’s happening near you. You can also follow us on social media to be the first to hear about our activities.