Tavistock is on the River Tavy, from which it takes its name. The town's history dates back to at least AD 961, when Tavistock Abbey, whose ruins lie in the centre of the town, was founded. Its most famous son is the sailor Sir Francis Drake.

The biggest event in the town's calendar is the annual Tavistock Goose Fair which has existed since 1116. Originally scheduled to take place on the feast-day of St. Rumon, it now occurs on the second Wednesday of October, and takes over much of the town for several days drawing crowds which far outnumber the resident population. Traditionally, the Fair was an opportunity for locals to purchase their Christmas goose, allowing plenty of time to fatten the bird before Christmas came; nowadays, along with a multitude of street vendors selling a vast range of wares, there are all the rides and games associated with funfairs^.

Key Stats

• Although there has been significant population growth since 1991 in the area, the rate is slower than the county and district rates. The figures suggest a small decline in the population in the remaining parishes. The population is around 11,300.
• The level of households occupied by individuals in the market town area as a whole is quite low, especially in remaining parishes where the figure is 23%.
• Unemployment levels are quite low in the area as a whole.
• Economic activity rates as a whole within the market town area are below all three comparators. Tavistock parish has more part-time workers and less full-time and self employed workers. Self-employment levels in the surrounding hinterland are significantly higher than the county and national averages.
• The percentage of employment by industry sector of those living in the market town area highlights the main sectors of employment as wholesale & retail trade, health & social work, manufacturing and education. This represents more than 50% of employment in the market town area. The area has a comparatively high percentage involved in public administration & defence.farming.
• The number of households with an annual income of less than £20,000 is slightly lower than average in the overall market town area but quite high in Bere Ferrers and very low in Buckland Monachorum.
• Achievement rates for GCSEs at grades A* to C were also slightly better than average in the Tavistock Market town area. Buckland Monachorum was particularly high in the A* – C category but Bere Ferrers was quite low.
• Select here for more statistics about Tavistock and surrounding area. (946KB - pdf help)