Great Torrington (generally abbreviated to Torrington) is a small market town, parts of which are sited on a cliff top with steep drops down to the River Torridge below. The centre of the town therefore commands spectacular views, though lower-lying parts are prone to occasional flooding. Torrington is in the very heart of Tarka Country, a landscape captured by Henry Williamson in his novel Tarka the Otter in 1927.

Great Torrington for years was valued for its strategic importance. The town had a significant role in the English Civil War, specifically, the Battle of Torrington in 1646 which marked the end of Royalist resistance in the West Country. Great Torrington today has become well recognised as an important heritage centre for the history of the 17th century. It is a vibrant community and people in the town, proud of their heritage, can often be seen dressed in costume for re-enactments, festivals and celebrations.

Key Stats

• There has been significant population growth since 1991 in the parish of Great Torrington. This increase is greater than the growth in the county. The population is around 3,600.
• The level of households occupied by individuals in the market town area as a whole is significantly below the county and national averages. There is a noticeable difference between the centre parish of Great Torrington and the surrounding hinterland.
• Unemployment levels in the market town area are below the national average.
• Claim rates for Income Support are quite high in Great Torrington parish approaching the national average. Claim rates for Job Seekers Allowance follow a similar trend.
• More than 50% of households in the parish of Great Torrington have an annual income of less than ?20,000 which is significantly higher than district and county averages.
• The percentage of employment by industry sector of those living in the market town area highlights the main sectors of employment as manufacturing and wholesale & retail. This represents nearly a third of employment in the market town area.
• Achievement rates for GCSEs at grades A* to C and A* to G were better than average. Pupils living outside of Great Torrington parish achieved higher results than pupils in the centre parish.
• Select here for more statistics about Great Torrington and surrounding area. (949KB - pdf help)