The area was called Hama in the Domesday Book. The village formed part of the original endowment of Tavistock in the late tenth century, from which it takes its name. St. Helen parish church, originally built by the Normans, was rebuilt in the thirteenth century and features many carved statues and bench-ends.

Abbotsham has one Post Office and General Store. There is a primary school, a church and a pub. There is also a village hall. Private business include a pre-natal scanning clinic.

The Thatched Inn is a traditional historic pub situated in Abbotsham.

As its name suggest the 15th century stone building has a thatched roof and was originally 3 stone cottages before being converted into a public house. The interior of this ancient inn is equally charming and full of character as many of the buildings original features remain. In the recently refurbished Bar and Restrants gleaming brassware hangs from the walls and exposed beams to further compliment the atmosphere.

Not surprisingly, a place this old, steeped in history also has a resident ghost; a former customer who use to meet his loved one at The Thatched Inn.