Writing by candlelight
Pickwick Cottage stands on medieval foundations dating back to the 1400s. The cottage took on its present appearance during renovations in 1711 to create a Queen Anne period interpretation of a Devon longhouse. Further extensions were added in the 19th Century.

Pickwick and the neighbouring Churchview cottage were initially one residence which was home to the landlord of the Oxenham Arms public house, located next door to the cottage and licensed since 1477 (find out more about the village’s pubs on the About South Zeal page).


During a snowy November in 1836, the landlord hosted a guest by the name of Charles Dickens who wrote part of his first novel during his stay in the village. The novel’s name? The Pickwick Papers.

Find your own inspiration for when you visit Pickwick by exploring our Things to do page for Dartmoor and beyond.