Curworthy Cheese Brings a Taste of Devon to Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days in Tavistock aren’t just about architecture, abbeys, and archives – they’re also about the traditions that have sustained communities for centuries.

This year, food heritage takes centre stage on Wednesday 17th September, when Curworthy Cheese arrives at Country Cheeses to share the art of traditional cheesemaking.

Curworthy is a true Devon success story. Based at Stockbeare Farm near Okehampton, this family-run dairy has been producing farmhouse cheese since 1985. Using milk from their own herd, they craft every wheel by hand, following recipes that stretch back to the 17th century. Their flagship variety, Devon Oke, is a semi-hard cheese matured for six to seven months on wooden shelves, giving it a mellow, buttery taste and a texture often compared to Red Leicester or Gouda.

Over the years, Curworthy has expanded its repertoire with imaginative twists on the classics. Visitors may come across Smokey Oke, a gently smoked version, or flavoured cheeses enhanced with herbs, spices, or even locally brewed ales. What unites them all is the same patient, small-scale process – milk turned into curds, curds pressed into moulds, and time working its magic.

Heritage Open Days offers the perfect backdrop to showcase this kind of living tradition. Just as Tavistock’s abbey builders, quarrymen, and miners shaped the fabric of the town, so too have generations of farmers and cheesemakers shaped the region’s culture and economy. Sampling Curworthy’s cheese is not just about flavour; it’s about experiencing a direct link to centuries of rural craftsmanship.

On the day, visitors will have the chance to:

• Meet the cheesemakers themselves and hear the story of Curworthy’s journey.

• Learn more about the heritage of dairying and cheese production in Devon.

• Taste samples of these award-winning cheeses – a treat for both locals and visitors.

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The event runs from 10:00 to 16:00 at Country Cheeses, right at the heart of the festival. It promises to be one of the tastiest highlights of the week, offering an opportunity to appreciate heritage not only with your eyes and ears, but with your taste buds too.

So, whether you’re a devoted foodie, a heritage enthusiast, or just someone who can’t resist a good wedge of cheese, make sure you drop by on Wednesday. It’s proof that heritage can be every bit as delicious as it is fascinating.

📅 Curworthy Cheese at Tavistock Heritage Open Days

🗓️ Wednesday 17th September, 11.00 – 15.00📍 Country Cheeses, Tavistock

💷 Free entry