The oldest borough in the Kingdom, having received its Charter from Athelstan. Sixteen arched bridge of the 13th century across the Taw. John Gay, author of The Beggar's Opera," was born here and educated at the Grammar School. The Great Fair is renowned throughout the West Country. The Penrose Almshouses date from 1627, Queen Anne's Walk, a colonaded exchange with its curious Tome Stone, and the 14th century Parish Church with its crooked spire. The home of Pepys' wife. Museum of North Devon life.