Living in Ottery St Mary

Community spirit is a defining feature of Ottery St Mary, reflected in its packed calendar of town events, such as the internationally recognised Tar Barrels night and the Ottery Food and Families Festival. The regular farmers’ market draws both locals and visitors, while local societies, gardening clubs, and arts groups create a rich social tapestry.

The surrounding countryside offers walks along the River Otter or into the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Parks, sports clubs, and allotments add to the active, outdoor lifestyle that many Ottery St Mary residents enjoy. Community centres and the parish church provide spaces for gatherings and local initiatives, reinforcing the town’s welcoming and engaged character.

Safety is one of Ottery St Mary’s most attractive qualities, with the town benefitting from relatively low crime rates typical of rural East Devon. Local policing is proactive, with community officers working alongside residents and schools to promote awareness and prevent antisocial behaviour.

The town’s close-knit community and active neighbourhood watch help maintain a strong sense of security. While minor incidents may occur, reports of serious crime are rare, and residents generally regard Ottery St Mary as a safe environment for families and individuals.

Parking in Ottery St Mary is generally straightforward, with several public car parks close to the town centre, including Land of Canaan and Sainsbury’s car park. Most residential streets offer on-street parking, and a few areas operate resident permit zones, mainly near the centre during peak times. There are occasional congestion issues during large events, such as the annual Tar Barrels night.

Road access is a strong point for Ottery St Mary. The nearby A30 dual carriageway connects directly to the M5, providing fast routes to regional centres. The town is also served by local B-roads linking to surrounding villages and the coast.

Exeter – approx. 25 minutes via A30 (10 miles)
Honiton – approx. 15 minutes via A30 (7 miles)
Sidmouth – approx. 20 minutes via B3176 (8 miles)
Taunton – approx. 50 minutes via M5 (34 miles)

Ottery St Mary offers a range of independent cafés, country pubs, and restaurants that highlight local produce and relaxed dining. Notable venues include The Volunteer Inn, a popular pub serving traditional ales and hearty meals, and The Rusty Pig, known for artisanal charcuterie and a seasonal menu. Several stylish coffee shops line the main street, catering for locals and visitors alike.

For evening entertainment, options range from cosy pubs with live music to local takeaways and bistros. The town does not have a nightclub, but occasional events and music nights at pubs provide a welcoming social scene. Ottery St Mary is more renowned for its community gatherings and festivals than for a central nightlife district, making it ideal for those seeking a laid-back, friendly ambiance.

School Quality
Ottery St Mary offers access to well-rated primary and secondary schools, ensuring children are supported throughout their education. The King’s School, in particular, is known for its academic strength and pastoral care.

Parks and Green Space
The town has several parks, recreation grounds and is surrounded by areas ideal for outdoor play and adventure. The River Otter and nearby woods provide safe, scenic environments for young families.

Childcare
Childcare options are available via nurseries and childminders in the town, making it practical for working parents.

Safety
Ottery St Mary benefits from low crime rates and a supportive community network, providing peace of mind for families.

Family Activities
The town hosts family-oriented events, such as festivals and fairs, and offers proximity to beaches, countryside, and heritage sites for year-round enjoyment.

Ottery St Mary is particularly welcoming to pets, with extensive green spaces, riverside walks along the Otter, and easy access to woodlands and fields. The town features several veterinary clinics, pet supply shops, and dog-friendly pubs, while many local landlords are pet tolerant in their lettings policies.

Parks and recreation areas provide ample opportunity for exercise, and the nearby East Devon countryside is a favourite for dog walkers. Local events often include pet-friendly themes, reinforcing the town’s accommodating approach to animals and their owners.

Although Ottery St Mary does not have its own train station, the town is well-served by bus routes connecting to Exeter, Honiton, and Sidmouth. The nearest rail stations are at Feniton (approx. 3 miles) and Honiton (approx. 7 miles), both offering connections on the Exeter to London Waterloo line. Regular bus services provide convenient local and regional travel.

By road, Ottery St Mary benefits from close proximity to the A30, providing direct motorway-style access to Exeter and the M5. The town is therefore an appealing base for commuters seeking balance between rural living and easy travel.

Commute Times by Public Transport:

• Exeter – approx. 30 minutes by car, 40 minutes by bus
• Honiton – approx. 15 minutes by car, 25 minutes by bus
• Exeter St David’s (Mainline Trains) – approx. 30 minutes via car and train from Feniton
• Exeter International Airport – approx. 15 minutes by car

Primary Schools in Ottery St Mary
Ottery St Mary Primary School is at the heart of the community, providing a nurturing, inclusive environment. West Hill Primary School, located just to the west of the town, is also highly regarded for its strong academic record and supportive ethos. Both schools have been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, with Ottery St Mary Primary last inspected in 2018.

Secondary Schools in Ottery St Mary
The King’s School is the area’s major secondary school, with a strong reputation for pastoral care and academic achievement. An academy, it draws pupils from across East Devon and received an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating in 2011, with consistently strong exam results since. There are also secondary school options in nearby Honiton and Sidmouth.

Colleges & Sixth Forms
Students seeking further education typically travel to Exeter College, a leading tertiary institution within easy reach. Exeter College offers a wide range of A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships, attracting students from across Devon.

Universities
Ottery St Mary is just 10 miles from the University of Exeter, a highly respected research university consistently ranked among the top in the UK. The proximity of Exeter opens opportunities for higher education within a short commute.