Meeth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Meeth |
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|---|---|
 St Michael's Church |
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| Population | 161 (2021 census) |
| Civil parish |
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| District |
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| Shire county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Police | Devon and Cornwall |
| Fire | Devon and Somerset |
| Ambulance | South Western |
| EU Parliament | South West England |
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Meeth is a small village and civil parish in Devon, England. It is part of the West Devon area. The village is about 13.5 miles (21.7 km) north-northwest of Okehampton. It is also about 40.7 miles (65.5 km) west-northwest of Exeter. Meeth is located to the west of the River Torridge.
In the past, mining for a special type of clay called ball clay was a big job here. These mines were just west of the village. They closed in 2004. Now, the old mine site is a nature reserve called Meeth Quarry. The Devon Wildlife Trust owns and looks after it. Another nature reserve, Ash Moor, is also nearby. In 2021, 161 people lived in the parish.
From 1925 to 1982, a railway line ran through Meeth. This line was called the North Devon and Cornwall Junction Light Railway. It helped transport clay from the mines to Bideford. From Bideford, the clay could then travel by sea. People could also use the train until 1965 from Meeth Halt railway station. Today, the Tarka Trail, a long walking path, uses the old railway route. It goes through Meeth and past the Meeth Quarry and Ash Moor nature reserves.
Life in Meeth Village
Meeth has a small village centre. Here you can find the church, which has recently reopened. There is also a village hall for community events. The village pub, called The Bull and Dragon, has been around since about 1490. A good local bus service runs every day. A small bed and breakfast (B&B) has also just opened in the village.
Notable People from Meeth
One famous person who lived in Meeth was John Lemprière. He was a scholar and writer. He is buried in the churchyard in Meeth, and there is a special monument for him there.
Historic Estates of Meeth
The area around Meeth village has some old and important family estates. These places were once homes for notable families.
- Croker's Hele: This was once the home of the Croker family.
- Fry's Hele: Today, this place is sometimes called "Friar's Hele." It used to be the home of the Fry family.
