St Cuthbert's Church dates from the 14th century and nearby Castle Hill is of historical interest.

From the 15th century onwards Wilmington sat astride the main Exeter to London road.

It became the Honiton to Axminster Turnpike in 1765 but the importance of this route diminished when the Upottery to Ilminster turnpike opened in 1807, which led to a steady improvement in coaching facilities in the early 19th century on what is now the A30/A303 route over the Blackdown Hills from Honiton to Ilminster.

In 1805 the village street rang to the clatter of horses' hooves as messengers raced through with news of the Battle of Trafalgar.

The plaque records details of the messengers and remembers local men who fought at the Battle.