A moorland National Park that goes on forever and miles of heritage coast topped and tailed by riviera coastline define the southwest county of Devon. You and your family will never tire of rolling hills dotted with thatched cottages, and dramatic coastlines with cliff-edged bays and elegant Georgian towns like Torquay straight from an Agatha Christie crime caper. With so many places in Devon to explore, we recommend you pack picnics for every day out. The hours will disappear exploring rock pools and smugglers’ caves. Another attraction is the dolphins somersaulting off sweeping beaches. Then there are the famous Devonshire teas – oven-warm scones, sticky strawberry jam and dollops of clotted cream. Need we say more?
Devon
A moorland National Park that goes on forever and miles of heritage coast topped and tailed by riviera coastline define the southwest county of Devon. You and your family will never tire of rolling hills dotted with thatched cottages, and dramatic coastlines with cliff-edged bays and elegant Georgian towns like Torquay straight from an Agatha Christie crime caper. With so many places in Devon to explore, we recommend you pack picnics for every day out. The hours will disappear exploring rock pools and smugglers’ caves. Another attraction is the dolphins somersaulting off sweeping beaches. Then there are the famous Devonshire teas – oven-warm scones, sticky strawberry jam and dollops of clotted cream. Need we say more?
Accommodation and attractions in Devon
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For more comprehensive listings on where to stay, things to do and holiday ideas
Cycle alongside the Exe Estuary
Jump on a bike to explore the beautiful Exe Estuary, taking in the lovely scenery, villages and landscapes along a 26 mile-long route.
Location: Exeter, Devon
Wake up early for a totally worth it tour of Brixham Fish Market
An early morning visit to Brixham's famous fish market is the most authentic way to experience coastal life in the southwest of England.
Location: Brixham, Devon
Take to the waters in South Devon
Salcombe’s sheltered estuary makes it the perfect British watersports holiday destination.
Location: Salcombe, Devon
Walk the South Devon Coastal Path
The South Devon Coast Path is a chance to discover a huge range of natural and social history, rocky headlands, hidden coves and sandy beaches.
Location: Devon
Discover Salcombe’s rich maritime and WWII history
From its rich maritime and wartime history to Otto Overbeck’s ‘electrical rejuvenator’, Salcombe is filled with historic gems.
Location: Salcombe, Devon
Try Plymouth's Historic Barbican and Sutton Harbour
An essential first port of call, a bustling community of specialist shops, restaurants, and world-class attractions, all in a picturesque harbourside.
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Spot rare winter birds on the River Exe Estuary
During winter the River Exe Estuary bursts with life. Take a guided bird watching cruise to see why the mudflats are as rich as a rainforest.
Location: Exeter, Devon
Go wild swimming at Thurlestone Rock
Pull on your wetsuit and goggles and aim for Thurlestone Rock off the south Devon coast for a really wild swimming adventure.
Location: Thurlestone, Devon
Let Plymouth bring out your adventurous streak
Plymouth provides the perfect place for adventurers, with water sports, scuba diving, climbing walls, cycle paths, walks and boat trips.
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Rainy Day Activities: Uncover underwater life at the National Marine Aquarium
Need a rainy day idea? Visit the UK's largest aquarium to be amazed at its fascinating underwater world, and learn how we all play a part in conserving it.
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Step into a Jane Austen novel at Hartland Abbey
Visit the historic house and filming locations of classic TV adaptations of Jane Austen and Rosamunde Pilcher novels, and step into the romance.
Location: Hartland, North Devon
Head to The Cary Arms for a luxurious dog friendly getaway
The Cary Arms is the perfect location for a dog friendly getaway, and with one of the UK’s dog friendly beaches on its door step, dogs can enjoy a paddle all year round.
Location: Babbacombe, Devon
Kayak the River Dart
Have some family water fun in South Devon this summer.
Location: Tuckenhay, Devon
Discover 2,000 years of history for free on a guided tour
Discover one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in England on a free Red Coat Guided Tour.
Location: Exeter, Devon
Explore the cobbled lanes of Clovelly
This ancient fishing village clings to the cliffs on the North Devon coast and tells a magical tale of living history.
Location: Clovelly, North Devon
Take a boat trip for the best view of the Jurassic Coast
Step aboard the Stuart Line Cruise, and see the stunning 250 million year old Jurassic Coast cliffs up close from the sea.
Location: Exmouth, Devon
Rainy Day Activities: Try a Tipple at Plymouth Gin Distillery
At one of Plymouth's oldest indoor attractions, see first hand how Plymouth's unique smooth gin is made.
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Luxurious weekend breaks at Burgh Island Hotel
Enjoy a coastal break at this luxurious Art-Deco hotel off the coast of Devon.
Location: Burgh Island, Devon
Ride with the driver on the Dartmouth Steam Railway
Enjoy a scenic steam train ride from Paignton to Dartmouth, with a twist.
Location: Paignton, Devon
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