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This was the site of the first armed conflict of the Prayer Book Rebellion. The battle took place on 29 July 1549. Knowing that Russell thought he didn't have enough men, on 26 July, Arundell (the rebel leader) decided to advance to meet the Government army at Fenny Bridges. On 29 July, the Carews attacked at the head of the royal army, gaining an initial success, but a counter attack by Cornish archers under Robert Smith of St Germans turned the tide. A further rally by the king's men won the day, with over 300 rebels killed. However, Russell heard church bells being rung for a service and as this was often used as a call to arms, feared an attack and retired to Honiton rather than pursue the rebels.

Reference: display of rebellion at church of St Andrew, Sampford Courtenay, Devon