1000 Years of History

Welcome to Modbury

Modbury lies in a hollow and is surrounded by the rolling hills and ridges of the South Hams in Devon.  Visitors are surprised and delighted by its dignified terraced houses, slate-hung walls, old shop windows and classical doorways – an urban landscape within a rural setting.

The earliest documented history of Modbury is found in the Domesday Book and the town has seen many developments and events over the centuries including two civil war battles.

Today Modbury remains a thriving town with a strong community spirit. 

Looking for your ancestors?

Explore the Archives

The Modbury History Society holds a number of documents relating to Modbury’s heritage.

Parish Records

Search the baptism and marriage records.

Memorial Inscriptions

Are your ancestors buried in the churchyard?

Modbury Tithe Map

Who owned what land in 1841?

Historical Documents

Search the catalogue of historical documents

Time Team Digs in Modbury

Time Team came to Modbury in June 2023.

Motor Bus 1904
The Baker Collection

A selection from the unique collection of historic photographs of Modbury, known as “The Baker Collection”.

Postcards of Modbury

A selection of postcards showing how Modbury looked through the years.

Browse these galleries of photos and postcards

Explore the History of Modbury with Us

The Project

The Heritage project aims to raise awareness of Modbury’s rich history. This website presents the four elements of the Heritage project.

  • A comprehensive database of historic information and parish records, provided by the Modbury History Society.
  • A selection of historic photographs from the Modbury Baker Collection that is currently held in the West Devon Records Office.
  • A record of the historic town sites in Modbury that have been identified with mounted plaques.
  • A timeline exhibition of ten panels of Modbury Heritage Topics.

The website has continued to grow with the addition of the Heritage Trail, additional pictures and information about the town’s history.