Ivybridge is a bustling, friendly town set on the banks of the beautiful River Erme ideally situated as a base to visit Dartmoor and the South Hams, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, all within easy reach. The town is known as the 'Gateway to the Moor' and is the start/finish point of the long-distance walking path The Two Moors Way. Look north and visible high above the town is the Western Beacon and to the south, the South Devon coast with its stunning beaches, rolling green countryside and twisting Devon lanes waiting to be explored. In the heart of the town are the beautiful Longtimber Woods, Filham Park, Woodlands Park and Erme Playing Fields.
The town enjoys both a magnificent natural setting and centuries of history as a mill town and a staging post on the London Road. Tumbling from the moors, the River Erme has formed the lifeblood of the town and provided power for three mills, one of which still stands today on Harford Road. You can read more about the town's history on our town heritage page.
Ivybridge is working towards being a Dementia Friendly town.
There are three tiers of local government with areas of responsibility in Ivybridge:-
- Devon Council Council
- South Hams District Council
- Ivybridge Town Council
Ivybridge is divided into 2 different wards: Ivybridge East and Ivybridge West.
The Town Council comprises 16 elected members, 8 for each ward, who work for the town in a voluntary capacity. The person acting as Town Mayor is elected annually in May, and Town Council elections are held every four years.
Visitors are welcome to call into both the Town Hall and into the town's Information Centre located in The Watermark nearby. The Watermark and Town Hall both have facilities that are available to hire for meetings, conferences, weddings etc.