History

The Three Crowns Hotel occupies a very significant position in the history of Chagford and also stands as a fine example of the town's architectural heritage. The building itself dates back to the 13th century and was once the home of the Whyddon family who lived in Chagford for several centuries.

    It was of Sir John's descendants, Mary Whyddon, who became a legend in Chagford following her death in 1641, shot on her wedding day as she returned from the church to her family home.

    Two years later in February 1643, as the civil war raged, the Three Crowns witnessed another violent death when during a local skirmish a young poet and cavalier by the name of Sydney Godolphin, was killed by musket fire and lay dying in the porch-way to the hotel. Although his body was removed and buried at Okehampton, Sydney still appears to be the hotel's oldest resident!

    Whilst retaining the essential character of this impressive building - it's granite construction giving a feeling of immense solidarity - a considerable amount of work has been carried out in recent years to provide all the services and comforts expected of a modern hotel.

 

    No visitors to the Three Crowns can however fail to capture the almost timeless atmosphere of a building that has such a historical association.