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?
Places to visit in Devon
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9 of the best things to do in Exeter
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From striking architecture to free city tours, there are plenty of reasons why Exeter is one of the best places to visit in Devon.
Follow themed trails through Haldon Forest Park
Walk, cycle, horse ride, segway or Go Ape at Haldon Forest Park near Exeter.
Location: Exeter, Devon
Go wild camping on Dartmoor
When it comes to experiencing the unspoiled and unique environment of the wilds of Dartmoor, nothing compares to wild camping.
Location: Dartmoor, Devon
Kayak the River Dart
Have some family water fun in South Devon this summer.
Location: Tuckenhay, Devon
Set out on a family cycling break in the Heart of Devon
Enjoy a cycling break with friends or family and discover the windswept scenery of the Exe Estuary, just south of Exeter, and its abundant wildlife.
Location: Exeter and East devon, Devon
Look to the night sky on Exmoor
This National Park of diverse landscapes, woven together in a rich tapestry, provides inspiration day and night
Location: Exmoor, Devon/Somerset
Discover Devon's Literature Scene
Devon has provided inspiration for a host of literary greats down the centuries. Many of them lived in Devon, or stayed to be inspired for a time.
Location: Exmoor, Lynton & Lynmouth, Taw and Torridge estuaries, Braunton Burrows, Morte Point
Take on the South West Coast Path National Trail
Wander the South West Coast Path and see the trail that allowed officials to catch smugglers in their coves and hideouts.
Location: Somerset
Explore the stately rooms of Powderham Castle
Step inside Powderham Castle; home to the 18th Earl of Devon, built by Sir Philip Courtenay in 1391 and one of England's finest stately homes.
Location: Kenton, Exeter, Devon
Take on the Tarka Trail for your next break
For the challenge of the 'Exmoor Beast' 100km/100m cycle sportive, or a gentle potter along the Tarka Trail with the family, North Devon is the place.
Location: North Devon
Get the teenagers active on an action-packed family break
Enjoy a weekend of abseiling, cycling and horse riding and country walks with the whole family on the moor.
Location: Dartmoor, Devon