In the rolling countryside of East Devon, Umborne has a small but remarkable building at its heart. For more than 75 years, Umborne Village Hall has been far more than bricks and mortar, it has been a place where community life thrives.
Originally opened in 1948, the hall began its life as an American Army Quonset Hut, repurposed by local residents at a cost of just £300. What followed was decades of village life unfolding under its curved roof: meetings, educational talks, fitness classes, celebrations and countless social gatherings filled with laughter and friendship. Today, many families who attended events there in the 1940s still live and work locally, farming the same fields alongside newer neighbours who now call the valley home. At the hall, generations mix easily, sharing stories, skills and community spirit.
After more than 60 years of service, the original hut was replaced in 2010 with the modern building that is used today. It doesn’t’ stop there, the story continues to evolve: Construction began in 2025 on a brand-new kitchen building designed to improve facilities for current and future residents. The project is progressing well, with volunteers hoping to complete it in time for a spring 2026 launch.
But Umborne Village Hall is not just a venue, it is a hub of volunteer energy that stretches far beyond the village itself. Every year, up to 30 enthusiastic volunteers from Umborne and surrounding communities marshal one of the South West’s most famous endurance races: the legendary Grizzly.
Organised by Axe Valley Runners, the Grizzly began in 1988 with just 27 runners. Today it attracts more than 2,000 entrants from across the UK and beyond. The punishing 20-mile course starts on the seafront at Seaton before taking runners across beaches, farmland, woodland trails and steep hills through Beer and Branscombe, with river crossings and even a bog along the way. It’s likely to be one of the toughest and most loved races in the country.
For Umborne’s volunteers, helping marshal the course is a highlight of the year: “Everyone really enjoys being part of such a wonderful experience,” say organisers. “It’s amazing to know that in a small way we’re helping make sure this fantastic local event continues.”
The event also provides vital financial support for the hall, with donations from entry fees contributing to the building’s upkeep and future improvements. In 2026, the race will also support The Farming Community Network, reinforcing the strong links between the rural community and the event.
Inspired by the Grizzly and the beauty of the Umborne Valley, the village created its own local race in 2009: the Umborne Ug. Held each summer, the Ug is a celebration of inclusive community sport, featuring a 10km race for adults, a 2.5km junior race and even a walking route so everyone can take part. Organised in partnership with Axe Valley Runners, the event draws more than 100 participants each year.
After the races, the community gathers back at the hall for a well-earned barbecue and a chance to relax, celebrate and reconnect after the day’s efforts. Unique prizes, handcrafted by local potter Gilly Lee Cox, add a special local touch. This year’s Umborne Ug will take place on Sunday 21 June 2026, promising another joyful day of running, walking and community spirit.
As Village Halls Week shines a spotlight on the importance of rural community buildings and the vital role they play in community health and wellbeing, Umborne Village Hall stands as a perfect example of what these spaces mean to the people who care for them. From a repurposed army hut to a thriving modern community hub, its story reflects the enduring power of volunteers, neighbours and shared purpose.
And as the marshals gather once again for the Grizzly and runners prepare for the Umborne Ug, one thing is certain…the heart of Umborne still beats strongly inside its village hall.