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Discover What Makes Bradford & Cookbury So Special
Set in the heart of rural Devon, Bradford and Cookbury are two historic parishes united by strong community spirit, rich heritage and a working countryside. From ancient churches to farmland, forestry charming rural hamlets, this is a place where history, landscape and local life remain closely connected.
Read on to explore the unique character that makes the combined parishes of Bradford & Cookbury truly special.
The Parish of Bradford & Cookbury is made up of two separate Civil Parishes – Bradford and Cookbury; these were combined as one to enable the formation of one Parish Council. Bradford CP covers approximately 16 sq km (1600 hectares) whilst Cookbury CP covers approximately 11 sq km (1100 hectares). The combined parish is located in central Devon almost equidistant from the towns of Holsworthy and Hatherleigh. It is entirely rural in nature with only the two small hamlets of Bradford (Holemoor) and Cookbury by name and several smaller settlements including Brandis Corner, Cookbury Wick, Middlecott, Priestacott and Upcott. Population in 2019 was 371 for Bradford ward and 171 for Cookbury ward.
Much of the remainder is farmland and forestry plantation.
The A3072 (Holsworthy to Hatherleigh) main road crosses the area, though the unclassified road from Brandis Corner to Stibb Cross, which bisects the parish passing through Bradford (Holemoor), is arguably just as busy.
This is an ancient area with mentions in the Domesday Book the parish of Bradford being known as Bradefort probably referring to a broad ford across the Torridge at what is now known as Bradford Mill and its connections with the Cadho, Arscott and Bickford families who owned the Dunsland Estate, now part of the National Trust holdings.
There are two fine old churches; Bradford (All Saints Church), the site of which dates from the 5th Century, and Cookbury (St John the Baptist and the Seven Maccabees Church) from the 12th Century with its dedication to the martyred Seven Maccabees which is unique to this country; a recently extended primary school (between the two hamlets); a splendid new village hall (next to the school) and a pub (the Bickford Arms) at Brandis Corner. Access to regular services is limited to those in neighbouring towns and villages. A night landing facility for the Devon Air Ambulance has been provided at Holemoor.
Early Years Education
Bradford Primary School offers nursery education for children aged 2-4 years. The team works closely with parents to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can grow, thrive, and begin their learning journey with confidence and joy.
For more information view the Nursery page on the Bradford Primary School website.
Bradford Primary School serves children aged 2–11 and has a capacity of 70 pupils.
In its June 2022 Ofsted inspection, the school received an overall “Good” rating, with education quality, behaviour, personal development and leadership all rated Good.
To find our more view the Bradford Primary School website.
BY THE NUMBErS
A mix of cosy cottages, family homes, and farmhouses.
A welcoming blend of families, retirees, and working professionals.
Rolling hills, farmland, woodlands, historic buildings, and open countryside.