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40 Best Places to Visit in Devon (by a local!)

There are so many unique places to visit in Devon.

This county is known for its almost tropical-like beaches and two epic moors, but there are also countless charismatic towns and two very different but equally dynamic cities. 

So, where do you begin when working out where to go in Devon?

I’m a local to the county (I live in Exmouth) and I’ve created this blog post to break it down for you!

In this post, you’ll see a description of all of my favourite places in Devon, and you’ll be able to click through to read more about each destination – as I’ve wrote full blog posts about most of them.

So, if you’re wondering where to go on holiday in Devon, you could base yourself in any of the places I mention below and visit other destinations in the area on day trips.

Table of Contents

What are the best places to visit in Devon?

There are some obvious top places to visit in Devon, and thousands of other hidden gems.

Being an Exmouth local, I wax lyrical about the town and the Devon Jurassic Coast in East Devon .

Up the river, you’ll find the ancient city of Exeter , where history’s at every step.

Just outside of Exeter, (to the northwest), the rolling moorland of Dartmoor begins. To the northeast of the city, you’ll find charming mid-Devon towns like Honiton and Tiverton and the jaw-droppingly beautiful Blackdown Hills .

South of Dartmoor, there’s Torbay , historically one of the UK’s most popular beach holiday destinations and nowadays a family-friendly spot that’s jam-packed with attractions. Or, visit smaller towns like Salcombe , Dartmouth and inland Totnes , before Plymouth , Devon’s biggest city.

Known as the UK’s Ocean City, Plymouth boasts fascinating maritime heritage and the oldest continously operating gin distillery in the world!

Heading north, you’ll find the North Devon World Surfing Reserve , which encompasses spots like Westward Ho! , Saunton Sands , Croyde and Woolacombe (once voted 13th best beach in the world). Charming villages like Clovelly and Appledore are dotted around the sparsely-populated region, along with larger harbour towns like the quaint Ilfracombe.

Devon then spills into Exmoor National Park , which straddles the Somerset border. On the Devon side, you’ll find the chilled-out town of Combe Martin and Lynton and Lynmouth , which are home to the Valley of Rocks and the cliff railway.

So, are you ready to find the best place in Devon for your holiday? Read on, and I’ll go into all of these destinations in more detail!

Best places to visit in Devon

As a Devon local, here are my top 40 places in Devon that I’d wholeheartedly recommend anyone to visit!

I live in Exmouth in East Devon, but I have visited all of these destinations countless times and have blog posts on most of them.

This list starts in the East Devon and works its way along South Devon to Plymouth, then up to the North Coast and terminates in mid-Devon, close to the Somerset and Dorset borders.

A city bursting with historical hidden gems, Exeter has plenty of stories to tell.

Originating as a Roman city, there are still Roman walls (and a Roman Bathhouse that hasn’t yet been excavated!).

Exeter Cathedral is the main landmark of the city, with a fascinating history spanning over 1100 years.

The city suffered a lot in the Exeter Blitz , with many of its historic buildings destroyed and countless lives lost.

In the centre, you’ll find curious Medieval houses wedged between 1960s buildings – and each of the historic buildings seems to have a story to tell!

While a lot of Exeter’s streets are lined with post-war buildings, the Medieval row of houses bordering Cathedral Green still remains intact (as is the cathedral, of course) and the Quayside remains well-preserved, many buildings echoing stories of the city’s heyday, the bright blue waters of the Exeter Canal running through.

The best things to do in Exeter include exploring the city on a red coat guided tour , venturing into the underground passages and learning about their Medieval importance, gin tasting or distilling at Quayside Distillery , renting kayaks, canoes or SUPs with Saddles & Paddles and exploring Exeter Canal, soaking in St Sidwell’s Point spa , the first Passivhaus spa in the country or heading to the rugby (or the football – I’m an Exeter city supporter – and seeing some live sport!

Or, read about how to spend a weekend in Exeter here.

Sitting just 11 miles south of Exeter, where the River Exe meets the sea, is the buzzing beach town of Exmouth – a two-mile-long stretch of sand that connects the Exe Estuary to the red rock of the oldest part of the Jurassic Coast.

Exmouth offers a varied banquet for nature lovers, with golden sands stretching for two miles, the beginning of the Jurassic Coast ( England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site ), the vibrant Exe Estuary and even brooding moorland.

In fact, I love Exmouth’s nature so much that I decided to move here!

Exmouth Beach is expansive and easy to access, with golden sands as far as the eye can see.

You can walk through the estuary and admire the riverside views or take the East Devon Way through the moors.

Or, climb up the cliffs at the eastern end of the beach – and you’re on the world-class Jurassic Coast . There are some excellent walks around here , or you could head to Sandy Bay, one of the best Exmouth beaches .

You can also take boat trips around the Jurassic Coast or up the River Exe with Stuart Line Cruises .

And, when you’re hungry, Exmouth has a variety of excellent restaurants serving up local and international fare.

You can see my full Exmouth travel guide here or click here for the best things to do in Exmouth . 

3. The Exe Estuary

Connecting Exeter with Exmouth on one side and Dawlish Warren on the other, the Exe Estuary is a network of villages and points of interest, but the entire river remains one of the best places to visit in Devon for the sheer riverside beauty and array of fascinating attractions.

It’s worth spending a day on your Devon itinerary driving, cycling, hiking or taking the train up and down the Exe Estuary, visiting all of the river’s best spots!

Don’t miss the tidal beach at Lympstone , Topsham Museum which details the small town’s fascinating history as a port, the beautiful Exminster Marshes , Powderham Castle which is still the home of the noble Courtenay Family, the pretty village of Starcross and the popular seaside resort Dawlish Warren !

See my post about the Exe Estuary for more information. 

4. Budleigh Salterton

Sitting just to the east of Exmouth ( check out my hiking guide between the two towns !) Budleigh Salterton is the first (or last, depending on which way you look at it!) town on the Jurassic Coast.

It has a pebble beach (which makes it usually a lot quieter than Exmouth Beach!), perfect for hiking or enjoying an oceanfront lunch (I love the Longboat Cafe ).

The town centre has a range of independent shops and museums like the Fairlynch Museum and Arts Centre .

You can also walk up the River Otter to Otterton , looking out for the resident beaver population on the way, and visit Otterton Mill – or hike along the South West Coast Path to Ladram Bay . Here’s my hiking guide for a loop walk around Exmouth, Budleigh and Otterton .

5. Sidmouth

Sidmouth, further east along the coast, is a holiday-focused town with soaring Jurassic cliffs and Victorian-style hotels and holiday properties.

From the clifftops, you’ll take in epic coastal views and you can enjoy the incredible surrounding countryside – Sidmouth is in the East Devon AONB .

In town, check out Connaught Gardens , enjoy the many oceanfront pubs and restaurants and head just outside of the town to visit the nearby Donkey Sanctuary , housing hundreds of rescued donkeys.

Check out my full guide to Sidmouth for more information about this seaside town!

No, it’s not the home of the drink – although by all means, you can pop into a pub and have a beer in Beer!

Beer’s a charming town with a shingle beach that’s bookended by limestone cliffs, which are typical of this part of the Jurassic Coast.

The South West Coast Path walking route to Branscombe is popular, and Beer is also home to Pecorama , a family-friendly attraction with gardens and model trains.

Also, don’t miss the Beer Quarry Caves – these human-made were caves originally used for mining limestone, but then turned into smugglers’ hideaways!

7. Branscombe

The drive down to Branscombe may be hair-raising – on my last trip there, I got impossibly lost in the single-track country roads before finally making my way to the village – but the rustic cottages and beautiful beachfront make it a must-visit on your Devon bucket list.

It’s renowned for rows of thatched cottages and rolling countryside in the background, along with steep cliffs backing the beach!

In the village, you can check out The Old Forge , have a hearty slice of cake in The Old Bakery , see the quaint St Winifred’s Church and dine in The Mason’s Arms , a 14th century inn.

Branscombe is rumoured to be the longest village in the UK ; most of the houses and businesses are along one road, which stretches a mile in length.

Check out my full guide to the best things to do in Branscombe by clicking here!

A stone’s throw from the Dorset border (about a 15 minute drive to Lyme Regis), Seaton is a popular East Devon town with a pebbled beach, bright red cliffs and calm sheltered waters.

Head out on the sea with a kayak or paddleboard, hike the South West Coast Path into Dorset , or enjoy Seaton’s fabulous attractions.

Explore the Seaton Wetlands Nature Reserve which runs alongside the River Axe and admire the marshland and reedbed – plus find the four bird hides to look out for birds in!

Or if you want to explore the Axe Valley in a unique way, climb on board the Seaton Tramway , a narrow-gauge heritage tramway.

There’s also the Axe Valley Wildlife Park , a small zoo located in nearby Axminster.

9. Blackdown Hills

Let’s move on to a hidden gem!

The Blackdown Hills AONB on the Somerset border offers stunning hiking and cycling trails, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Unlike busy parts of Devon, it’s the perfect place for secluded woodland walks and awe-inspiring views.

I always drive through the Blackdown Hills on my way back to Devon when I visit London and places in the South East; and I’m always mesmerised by how beautiful they are.

I’d recommend heading to Honiton if you want to explore the Devon portion of the Blackdown Hills; the AONB’s official website has some great walks and rides to enjoy , some of them leaving from Honiton.

10. Honiton

Discover Honiton, a historic market town nestled in the heart of East Devon!

Not a typical tourist hotspot, it offers a true taste of local East Devon life.

If you’re interested in textiles, you’ll love exploring the Allhallows Museum , which tells the story of Honiton Lace and its significance to the region.

And don’t miss the Honiton Farmers Market , held three times a week, where you can sample delicious local produce and learn about farming in the South West!

11. Dawlish

Traditional yet timeless, Dawlish is a resort town with a lovely sandy beach that dates back to the Victorian era.

Dawlish is famous for being the home of the black swans – you’ll find them swimming on Dawlish water – and it’s also home to a myriad of cosy eateries and pubs, with a lovely small-town atmosphere.

My favourite is the friendly Annie’s Tea Room , where I recently fuelled up with a Devon cream tea ( cream on first , remember!), while hiking from Teignmouth .

Nearby Dawlish Warren is a seaside resort, with powdery white sand and safe swimming waters – it’s one of Devon’s Blue Flag Beaches, a prestigious award which is given to the cleanest beaches in the UK.

Dawlish is also home to one of the most scenic railways in the countr y ; hop on board and take the short train to Dawlish Warren to experience it!

Check out more things to do in Dawlish here.

12. Teignmouth

A quiet beach town on the south coast of Devon, Teignmouth (pronounced ‘tinmuth’) is often overshadowed by neighbouring Torbay.

But the town has plenty to offer: a the Grand Pier is now home to several amusement arcades, spanning over Teignmouth Beach which is a family-friendly bay with a pier and other attractions, and there’s a lido for those days when the sea is too cold!

Walk down the charming backstreets of Teignmouth (past Keats House , where John Keats once stayed) to Teignmouth River Beach , which is a popular spot for fishing. 

From here, you can take a boat to Shaldon (which is allegedly the oldest ferry in the country, dating back to at least 1296).

Shaldon is a small fishing town with some beautiful waterfront pubs – I love the Ferry Boat Inn .

However, the main reason to go to Shaldon is to find the smuggler’s tunnel to Ness Cove Beach , a hidden cove that not many tourists know about – but it’s definitely one of my favourite beaches in Devon .

Here are the best things to do in Teignmouth and nearby Shaldon.

13. Torquay 

Along from Teignmouth, you’ll find the area of Torbay. This is a region that encompasses three towns – Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

The biggest town in the area, Torquay is ever-popular with tourists.

The town centre of Torquay can feel a little run-down, but the town does encompass some impressive family-friendly attractions, and there’s a collection of stunning palm-lined beaches on the outskirts.

In town, you’ll find Kent’s Cavern Caves – the oldest cave system in the UK (at about 500,000 years old!) and a scheduled ancient monument and site of special scientific interest.

You can do a tour of the caves to learn about their geology, the animals that have lived in the cave and their uses over the millenniums.

If you fancy a stroll away from the coast, head to the picturesque parkland of Cockington Country Park .

Or, if it’s raining when you’re in Devon, head to Bygones which is an immersive museum of historic memorabilia.

Torre Abbey is also well worth visiting; it’s a Medieval monastery-turned-museum.

Of course, no visit to Torquay is complete without a day spent on the sandy beaches, with Meadfoot Beach, Babbacombe Beach, and Torre Abbey Sands being the most popular.

See all of the best things to do in Torquay here.

14. Paignton 

Paignton and Torquay sit right next to each other, and kind of merge into one when it comes to attractions and things to do.

Like Torquay, Paignton’s been popular with tourists since Victorian times when the railway was built and is famous for its long sandy beaches, which are great for rock pooling and bustling holiday atmosphere.

Also like Torquay, it’s not my favourite place in Devon, but there’s no denying that the range of attractions, particularly family-friendly attractions, in this part of Devon is exemplary.

Along with Torquay’s attractions, Paignton also boasts Splashdown Quaywest , the UK’s biggest all-outdoor waterpark. I reviewed it (very honestly) here – it’s not my favourite place in Devon, but I can see its appeal to families.

Goodrington Sands , the beach that Splashdown Quaywest is on, is lovely and you could definitely pass away a sunny afternoon here!

Check out all of the best things to do in Paignton by clicking here.

15. Brixham

Brixham’s a little quieter than Torquay and Paignton, but it’s a must-visit if you want to learn more about Devon’s maritime connection and the seafood industry.

Home to one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK, Brixham is a working port. While that gives it more of an industrial feel than other spots in South Devon , it offers a fascinating glimpse into local life.

There are quite a few maritime-related things to do in Brixham, including the Golden Hind Museum Ship which is a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s famous ship (the first English ship to sail all over the world).

There’s also the Brixham Battery Heritage Centre where you can leran about the region’s military history, or visit the Brixham Fish Market ( Rockfish, who source all their fish from the town, even offer tours !).

16. Babbacombe

Babbacombe is a small area of Torquay, but it packs a punch when it comes to attractions – which is why I’ve given it it’s own section here!

It’s also my favourite part of Torquay, as I love the beaches in this area.

First up, visit the Babbacombe Cliff Railway which leads down to the beautiful Oddicombe Beach, one of the most charming beaches in the area.

Then there’s the Babbacombe Model Village , which is famous for its miniature landscaped gardens.

Babbacombe Downs is the highest cliff top promenade in the country and the South West Coast Path extends from the town around to Hope’s Nose, where you can take in glorious views out to sea!

17. Newton Abbot

A bustling inland market town, Newton Abbot sits on the River Teign and is well-connected to the rest of Devon and London, with frequent trains.

Get a slice of culture and history at the town and GWR museum , go shopping at the Newton Abbot Indoor Market or visit the nearby Decoy Country Park and Stover Country Park for nature.

There’s also a handful of excellent restaurants, including Tean’s Thai Kitchen which serves delicious Asian cuisine.

Get ready to step back in time in Totnes, a town that dates back to 907, when the first castle was built.

Your trip should begin with a visit to this castle , an imposing Norman fortress with a keep and curtain wall from the 14th century. (If you’re an English Heritage member, you can visit for free – here’s my review !)

Afterward, take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and admire the plethora of ancient buildings, including the Church of St Mary , the Guildhall which was built on the site of an 11th-century Benedictine priory and the East Gate Arch which once stood as the entrance to the Medieval town (although it was rebuilt in 1990 after it was destroyed by a fire).

Nowadays, Totnes is an artist’s hub , with small galleries and pop-up shops lining the streets. There’s also an abundance of cafes and restaurants selling local, seasonal meals in town – Gather is my favourite.

Totnes sits on the River Dart, and any trip to the town should end with a walk along the peaceful waterside, or even a boat trip down the river to Dartmouth!

Here are all the best things to do in Totnes.

19. Dartmouth

Bright and beautiful, Dartmouth sits on the end of the River Dart (hence the name).

It’s famous for its gently weaving river that traverses down to the beachside town.

It’s most famous for the grand Dartmouth Castle which dates back over 600 years. Work on it initially began in 1388, when the town was protected during the 100 years war with France.

It was also a place of fighting during the Civil War and operated in both World Wars.

The Britannia Royal Naval College Museum is also in town, located in an Edwardian building that acts as a living museum.

Dartmouth Museum focuses on the town’s history.

You’ll also find wonderful beaches, including the beautiful Castle Cove and Sugary Cove .

From Dartmouth, you can take boats up the River Dart to Totnes , or you can venture to two National Trust properties, Coleton Fishacre House and Greenway House , which is where famous novelist Agatha Christie lived.

20. East Prawle

One of the most isolated places in South Devon, East Prawle is a small, remote village that’s close to Prawle Point , the most southerly tip of Devon.

Expect rugged cliff scenery, plenty of fresh sea air and lots of farmland – in fact, this part of Devon is actually called ‘pig country’ due to the sizable farming industry in the area.

In fact, the only pub in town is the Pigs Nose , a classic country pub serving hearty dinners and local ales.

In keeping with the piggy theme, you’ll also find The Piglet Cafe , which serves slap-up breakfasts and pasties for lunch.

Find deserted beaches ( Lannacombe Beach is a 15 minute drive or short walk along the coast path away), or enjoy this particularly remote area of the South West Coast Path, in blissful solitude.

21. Salcombe

Small but mighty, Salcombe sits on the Kingsbridge Estuary.

A beautiful harbour town, it’s in a prime position for watersports, boating and scenic coastal walks along the river and coastline.

Take a walk around the scenic coastal town to take in the independent shops, head to the Salcombe Gin School (their drinks are incredible!) and try some ice cream at Salcombe Dairy.

While Salcombe doesn’t have a huge amount of attractions right in the town, it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Devon and is ideal if you want beachy staycation vibes in the UK!

22. Hope Cove

In the midst of the South Devon AONB (and when you visit, you’ll see why!) Hope Cove is a tiny village that’s made up of two beaches.

It may be remote, but it’s one of the most scenic places in Devon, with gorgeous cliffs jutting out to the sea, the bright green sand contrasting with the blue water.

There are a few places to eat in town, many lining the coastline.

I love The Cove (which calls itself the UK’s best craft beer bar), which is set just back from the shore. It serves up slap-up pub grub meals – I feasted on vegan fish and chips when I was here!

23. Bigbury-on-Sea

Home to one of the county’s largest beaches ( that has been ranked fourth best in England ), Bigbury-on-Sea is the ideal Devon vacation spot.

The waters here are made for watersports – it’s one of the only places in South Devon where surfing is a real possibility. Kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders can often be seen on the water too!

Don’t miss Burgh Island , which is linked to Bigbury-on-Sea by a causeway (although when the tide’s in, you’ll need to take the sea tractor!).

It’s famous for its Art Deco hotel, Agatha Christie connections and beautiful wildlife. 

Walk around the village or kick back in one of the pub gardens and toast to a wonderful holiday in South Devon!

24. Plymouth

You’ve made it to Devon’s largest city!

Known as “Britain’s Ocean City”, Plymouth dates back to Saxon times, its location making it one of the most important maritime cities in the world.

It was here where the Spanish Armada was stopped, where Catherine of Aragon (Henry VIII’s first wife) first entered the country and where the Mayflower Pilgrims , the first European settlers in the so-called “new world” set off from in 1620.

The best of Plymouth is definitely by the waterfront, in the Hoe and Barbican areas. Walk around here for picturesque maritime views and fascinating 15th and 16th-century buildings, all of which tell their own stories!

There’s lots to do in Plymouth too.

Tour the Plymouth Gin Distillery , board a cruise ship on the Tamar to learn about the Devon/ Cornish border, visit the impressive Box Museum and learn about the fascinating Mayflower Voyage which set off from the city.

Just outside of the city, you can flop on some of the best beaches or hike on the South West Coast Path.

There are lots of other hikes around Plymouth , too!

It’s perfect for a weekend break!

25. Tavistock

I’m a big fan of Tavistock.

Sitting just on the cusp of Dartmoor, it’s an ideal place to base yourself if you want to explore all that the town has to offer but also be in striking distance to the moor’s best natural attractions.

In the town itself, you’ll find the Pannier Markets , a historic place to buy goods – although nowadays it’s mainly used for buying tourist-focused gifts!

There’s also the Church of St. Eustachius, which dates back to the 13th century. The light reflecting through the church’s stained glass windows is a spectacle!

Once you’ve left the church, find the ruins of Tavistock Abbey .

Like most other abbeys in the country, it fell into a ruinous state during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Nowadays, you can only see parts of the foundations.

Nearby is Buckland Abbey. As the name suggests, this was also originally an abbey.

But during the Dissolution, it was turned into a Tudor Monastery, with Sir Francis Drake living there.

Back in Tavistock, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to fuel up in before exploring the rest of Devon! I love Lemon Grove Cafe and the coffee at The Stranded Sheep .

26. Okehampton

Heading to the north edge of the moor, Okehampton is another wonderful moor-centric town!

It’s well-known for Okehampton Castle , which was built shortly after the Norman conquest of England to defend the region. Nowadays it’s managed by the English Heritage and is semi-ruinous, although there’s plenty still standing to explore!

The Museum of Dartmoor Life is also in town. Here, you can learn about the history and culture around the moor.

Being a country town, Okehampton has lots of local cafes and tearooms.

When I last visited, I had a hearty jacket potato in the traditional Victorian Tea Rooms by the museum.

You can also shop for local goods in the Okehampton Arcade or stay in town for the Okehampton Farmer’s Market which takes place every first and third Saturday of the month.

On the moors, you’re close to the Meldon Reservoir , High Willhays  and Yes Tor .

You could also take a bus from Okehampton to Lydford Gorge and the scenic village of Lydford .

But of course, if you have a car, you can explore pretty much all of Dartmoor from Okehampton!

27. Dartmoor National Park

Of course, one of the best places to visit in Devon – and in all of the UK – is the glorious Dartmoor National Park!

The rolling moorland is an attraction in itself, but the landscape’s punctuated by a variety of interesting attractions.

Visit ancient sites like Grimspound and the Hound Tor Deserted Village , explore the moor’s many tors (hills with stones on top) or explore woodland and temperate rainforest.

Dartmoor National Park is home to Wistman’s Wood (which looks like the Forbidden Forest from Harry Potter!) and the charming Lydford Gorge . Becky Falls is another wonderful waterfall !

There’s also an abundance of historical attractions, including the Dartmoor Prison Museum and Castle Drogo which was the last castle to be built in the UK.

Charismatic towns and villages are dotted over the moor, such as quaint Chagford , Ashburton which is famous for its antique shops and the surreal Widecombe-in-the-Moor , which is enclosed in moorland.

Here’s my full guide to the best things to do in Dartmoor.

28. Hartland Quay

Moving onto North Devon , one of the most remote yet fascinating places to visit is Hartland Quay, which is a stone’s throw from the Cornwall border.

Once a bustling harbour, Hartland Quay is now a deserted area on the cliffs, just a little north of the tiny village of Hartland.

At the Hartland Quay Museum , you can explore the history of the quay.

It has been the setting for numerous films, including Rebecca which was released in 2020.

It’s also a dreamy place for epic North Devon walks, such as the Hartland Quay to Bude walk .

This hike spans into Cornwall and is (in my opinion) the toughest walk on the South West Coast Path – but its isolation and brooding cliffs mean it’s also one of the most spectacular!

29. Clovelly

The picture-perfect village of Clovelly is one of the most talked-about fishing villages in the UK.

It’s one of the most tourist-focused places in Devon, with most visitors to the north of the county popping in – but they all pay for the privilege.

That’s right; it costs £8.75 for adult entry to Clovelly (price updated for 2023).

So, is it worth it?

It’s a mesmerising fishing village, with traditional buildings lining cobblestone streets.

Your ticket also includes entry to Clovelly’s attractions, including the Fisherman’s Cottage which resembles a cottage from the 18th century and the Kingsley Museum which celebrates local novelist Charles Kingsley.

The views down to the quay are breathtaking – and you can walk down to the quay itself, plus venture along the beach and try to find Merlin’s Waterfall .

While there are lots of similar fishing villages in Devon and Cornwall that are free to visit (such as Port Isaac and Mousehole ), none are as well preserved as Clovelly – but it is also very much a tourist town, with few people actually living there.

You can stay the night in Clovelly – we once stayed in the picturesque Harbour View Cottage – and if you stay in town, you don’t need to pay the entrance fee.

You also don’t need ot pay if you walk in on the South West Coast Path, as by doing so you’ll bypass the visitor’s centre.

Read all about the best things to do in Clovelly here.

30. Westward Ho!

Looking for somewhere to spend a beachy holiday in North Devon? Westward Ho! might be your answer.

The only town in the UK with an exclamation mark after its name (and one of only two in the world), Westward Ho! only dates back to the 1860s, when it was created as a holiday resort and named after Charles Kingsley’s book of the same name.

The exclamation mark is part of its official name!

Nowadays, it’s a popular town for surfing , watersports and lazing on the beach – the two miles of golden sand (with some shingle and pebbles) stretch along the North Devon coastline.

The Northam Burrows Country Park , which is an SSSI and golf course, sits at one end.

Family-friendly activities in town include crazy golf and go-karting .

See all of Westward Ho!’s attractions here .

31. Appledore

Appledore can get quite busy in the summer months, but it retains a charming, small-village feel (despite all the holiday homes!) and I always recommend it as a must on any North Devon itinerary .

Walk down the colourful Irsha Street, famous for its pastel coloured terraced cottages, to reach Appledore Quay .

Here, you can enjoy views over the River Torridge to Instow.

There’s a ferry that connects the two in the summer months, or you can follow the South West Coast Path on the Instow to Westward Ho! walk , which passes through Appledore.

Appledore has a few excellent pubs in town, including The Seagate – also a beautiful place to stay – and The Beaver Inn .

Its riverside location and relaxed feel make it the ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon or evening!

32. Woolacombe

Next, I give you the best beach in the UK!

Yes, Woolacombe Beach has been voted so (on numerous occasions) – and it’s also been dubbed the best in the world.

This was thanks to not only its scenery, but also its water quality and safety.

However, Woolacombe is also one of the best places for surfing in Devon , sitting right in the heart of the North Devon surfing reserve .

There are plenty of schools in Woolacombe and nearby Croyde if you’d like to try your hand at the sport!

Other things to do in Woolacombe include hiking around Baggy Point or Morte Point (which bookend the beach), visiting Mortehoe and its interesting museum which focuses on shipwrecks, treatments at The Alchemist Spa and beach-hopping .

However, there are lots of things to do in the area , including the nearby village of Croyde , which has an excellent dining scene, and plenty of other sandy beaches ! 

33. Barnstaple

Barnstaple, the largest town in North Devon, dates back to 930 AD and is steeped in history.

It’s not coastal, which means that it doesn’t get the same amount of visitors as North Devon’s seaside villages, but there’s plenty of culture and history to delve into here!

Uncover its rich past at the Museum of North Devon and see its interesting Long Bridge which dates back to the Medieval era.

Barnstaple has some vibrant Pannier Markets , and Arlington Court and National Trust Carriage Museum is on the town’s outskirts.

Barnstaple’s also on the scenic Tarka Trail , a cycling and hiking trail that spans parts of the South West Coast Path bus also ventures inland to the Taw and Torridge Estuaries.

Check out all of the best things to do in Barnstaple by clicking here.

34. Ilfracombe

A stunning coastal town nestled between Woolacombe and Exmoor National Park, Ilfracombe is renowned for its charming beaches all centered around its historic harbour.

It’s the base of Ilfracombe Sea Safari , which offers thrilling boat tours towards Exmoor or Woolacombe, with the chance to spot seals en route.

As Ilfracombe is nestled in cliffs, you can take in glorious views from the top of Capstone Hill or Forthglade , perhaps hiking to Woolacombe or Combe Martin .

Ilfracombe’s many beaches include the privately-owned Tunnels Beaches which were created in the Victorian era to access some of the more remote bays, along with the gorgeous Wildersmouth Beach .

The town centre has a few excellent eateries and ice cream shops – I’d recommend grabbing your food to take away and enjoying it on the harbour, just watch out for seagulls!

Check out the best things to do in Ilfracombe with my full guide to the town.

35. Lundy Island

One of the most incredible places to visit in Devon – and one of my favourite places in the world – no trip to the north of the county should miss this gem out!

A weathered island sitting where Bristol Channel and Atlantic Ocean meet, Lundy’s home to a menagerie of wildlife, including seals, puffins and ponies.

It’s also oozing with history – you can do a ranger-led tour to learn about its connections to pirates and smugglers over the years.

Go snorkelling on the beaches (you can even swim with seals ) or hike around the island. Head to the top of The Old Light and toast to a day’s sightseeing on the islands only pub, the Marisco Tavern .

Lundy’s also home to the oldest private post system in the world, and you can make use of this by sending a postcard while you’re here.

You can visit Lundy by hopping on the MS Oldenburg from Ilfracombe – here’s my detailed post about taking a day trip to the island .

36. Combe Martin

A small beach town on the edge of Exmoor National Park, Combe Martin is a secluded bay and small village.

Holidays in Combe Martin are mainly based around the beach – it’s a fantastic place for watersports – but you could also while away a day in the Focsle Inn beer garden , which overlooks the sands.

Or, head to the Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park , a small zoo and kid’s attraction focused on prehistoric animals. There’s also Watermouth Castle , which is a castle-turned-theme park, ideal for families!

Adults can enjoy scenic hikes along this particularly beautiful stretch of coastline or its proximity to the glorious Exmoor.

37. Lynton and Lynmouth

Sitting in the midst of the Devonshire part of Exmoor, Lynton and Lynmouth are two twin villages.

They’ve been called the “Switzerland of Devon” due to their position in the scenic hills (although the person who thought of this name seems to have forgotten that Switzerland is landlocked, and Lynmouth is very much coastal!).

The villages are home to the Lynton-Lynmouth cliff railway , which is the only water-powered funicular in the country and the Valley of Rocks , an interesting cliff walk with rocks dating back to the last ice age.

This is Coleridge country, and from the Valley of the Rocks you can walk the poet’s route back down into Lynmouth.

Back in town, visit the Flood Memorial Hall to learn about the catastrophic 1952 floods and the impact they had on the town, and visit the Lyn Model Railway , featuring a LNER (London & North Eastern Railway) model from 1935 – 1940.

See all of the things to do in Lynton and Lynmouth here.  

38. Exmoor National Park

Devon’s other national park, Exmoor , is where rolling moorland meets the sea.

Most of the park is actually in Somerset, but the western side is in Devon.

Along with villages like Combe Martin and Lynmouth , here you can hike along the coastline (although, a warning – it’s tough) to Porlock in Somerset. Here’s my Porlock to Lynmouth walking guide .

Dunkery Beacon is Exmoor’s highest point and although it’s over the border in Somerset, it’s a great shorter hike!

Also in the Somerset part, you’ll find the charming villages of Dunster (home to Dunster Castle) and scenic Watchet .

39. Tiverton 

Welcome to Mid-Devon !

The least-visited part of the country, Mid-Devon has a few small towns that are worth stopping in.

Tiverton is packed with chances to experience local life; and while it doesn’t see that many tourists, it has an impressive array of historical attractions.

Visit Tiverton Castle , which dates back to 1106, or the nearby Medieval Bickleigh Castle .

The National Trust property Knightshayes Court is also nearby.

On the outskirts of Tiverton, you can enjoy the Grand Western Canal and its 24 bridges! 

40. Crediton

Crediton is another historic market town, just north of Exeter, with the impressive Holy Cross Church , which stands on the site of Devon’s first Saxon Cathedral.

The patron saint of Germany, Boniface , was born here in 680 AD.

He was educated in Exeter and eventually killed in Europe by being stabbed while he was reading the bible. He’s often immortalised in images by holding the bible through a shield!

Boniface has made Crediton a popular place for German tourists to visit in Devon, although it’s also worth visiting for its many independent shops and farmer’s market which is on the first and third Saturdays of every month.

Are you ready to visit the best places in Devon?

From the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the rolling hills of Dartmoor to the powdery white sands of the North Devon surfing reserve, there are so many wonderful places to visit in Devon!

Check out the rest of my Devon posts to help you plan your ideal trip to the South West!

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Devon, England

Why we love Devon

Hugging the south-west, Devon is a playground for adventurers, explorers and lovers of food and drink. With around 120 picturesque sandy beaches, it offers the perfect place to pitch a picnic stocked with locally sourced foods. Its crystal waters offer decent surf, while its towering cliff-side walks hark back to the fossilised Jurassic south.

From medieval towns to cute seaside villages, there’s a slice of paradise waiting for you. Whether you’re a walker, a cyclist or a wheelchair user, fancy a dip, a flop or even a trek with a lama, washed up with a fat menu of local treats and sleep under the stars, Devon has it all.

visitsouthdevon/uniquedevontours

Mysterious Burgh island by sea tractor

Take a sea tractor to a small tidal island that inspired Agatha Christie. Explore its grand Art Deco hotel, and have a pint at its pub, before waiting for the sea to come in around you and a sea tractor to take you back to the mainland, Bigbury-on-Sea.

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Explore beneath Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral is a must with its, but have you ever stopped to think about what lurks beneath the city? Explore the medieval subterranean tunnels which labyrinth under this city.

The skies come alive

Enjoy one of the country’s most spectacular air shows, set in one of the most beautiful coastlines. Join the 200,000 people who flock to Paignton, South Devon to see the  English Riviera Airshow every year. As spitfires fly overhead, you can enjoy stalls, food and drink and a fairground on Paignton Green.

The Sharpham Trust

Hone your mindfull skills

Relax at the Sharpham House mindfulness centre, set in beautiful gardens designed by Capability Brown, high on the banks of the River Dart. Its year-round retreats include tailor-made itineraries exploring gratitude, meditation, mindful walking, and much more – all led by expert practitioners.

VisitBritain

Seaside history

Clinging to the cliffside, the beautiful village of Clovelly in North Devon, is an unforgettable place to visit. The privately-owned village with its famous cobbled street tumbling down to the sea has no cars, just donkeys. Visitors must pay to enter the historic village, which has two hotels, museums, gardens and lots of eateries and shops.

Things to do in Devon

A surfing, hiking and coasteering paradise, this north Devon seaside resort offers endless outdoor entertainment.

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens

This historic garden has a treat for all ages – with a mini railway, countryside museum and spectacular glasshouses.

Exeter Cathedral

This historic Gothic cathedral boasts glorious stained-glass windows and decorative stonework and offers a wide range of tours.

Sebastian Christopher

Exeter, Devon

Sharpham House

Relax at this mindfulness retreat centre, set in beautiful gardens with restorative views of the Dart Valley.

Burgh Island

This south Devon island was made famous by the crime-writer Agatha Christie and features an Art Deco-inspired hotel.

Burgh Island Hotel

Kingsbridge Farmers Market

The market town of Kingsbridge comes alive with local produce twice a month with its popular farmers market. Stall-holders offer everything from cakes to cushions, all locally made.

VisitBritain/David Clapp

National Marine Aquarium

Dive into the UK’s largest aquarium in Plymouth for an underwater exploration like no other, spy sea creatures and take a watery journey round the world’s oceans.

jaystoneuk/nationalmarineaquariam

Plymouth Gin Distillery Tour

Take a tour of the oldest working gin distillery in England at Plymouth Gin’s historic Black Friars Distillery.

Destination Plymouth

Plymouth, England

Gaia Spa, Boringdon Hall

Take time out in one of the country’s top spas, in the grounds of Boringdon Hall hotel near Plymouth. With stunning hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms and saunas, this adults-only space is total bliss.

gaiaboringdon

Bee keeping at Quince Honey Farm

Busy bees will love Quince Honey Farm, where you can try beekeeping, visit the nectar garden, tour the honey factory and candle-making room, or relax in the popular Nectary Restaurant.

Clinging to the cliffside, the beautiful village of Clovelly in North Devon, is an unforgettable place to visit. The privately-owned village with its famous cobbled street tumbling down to the sea has no cars, just donkeys.

Woolacombe Beach

One of Britain’s best beaches, wonderful Woolacombe is a favourite with both surfers and families.

Bantham Beach

Grab your bucket and spade for a day out at beautiful Bantham Beach, South Devon, with its clean water and wonderful views.

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Devon Sea Safari

Explore the Devon coast a whole new way, on a sea safari boat trip from Teignmouth.

Alamy Stock Photo

Easy Divers Lundy Dive Trip

For a dive trip you’ll never forget, try an Easy Divers’ Lundy Island guided seal encounter.

North Devon Wake Park

For an action-packed day out, have a go at wakeboarding on a lake in the beautiful North Devon countryside.

Maddie Meddings/Devon North-Devon Wake Park

Babbacombe Model Village

One of Torquay’s biggest attractions is also its smallest – the ever-popular Babbacombe Model Village and Gardens.

Zachary Culpin/BNPS

Queens Theatre

From panto to musicals, comedy to theatre, head to the Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple.

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Dartington Crystal Factory Tour

Watch the master glass blowers in action on this fascinating tour of the Dartington Crystal factory.

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Teignmouth Arts Quarter

While away the time in Teignmouth’s pretty Arts Quarter, full of art galleries, theatre, artisan stores, music shops, cafes, bakeries and pubs.

Getty Images/Mike Harrington

Alder Vineyard Tour

Discover the secret of growing grapes on the edge of Dartmoor, with a tour around this enchanting English vineyard in Devon.

Alder Vineyard/Adam Birch

Devon Street Food Festival

Travel around the world without leaving the seaside town of Ilfracombe, with the annual Devon Street Food Festival, featuring gourmet bites from all over the globe.

Street Food Warehouse

South Devon Chilli Farm

Visit one of Devon’s hottest spots, at the South Devon Chilli Farm and take a walk through the colourful chilli show tunnels.

Coleton Fishacre

Discover the beautiful Arts and Crafts home of Coleton Fishacre and travel back into the Jazz Age in its Art Deco interiors and RHS tropical gardens.

National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Dartmouth Town Trail

Take a walk through time on the Dartmouth Town Trail, a 1.6 mile (2.5 km) route around the historic town beloved by seafarers for centuries.

Newton Abbot Town and GWR Museum

Discover the rich history of market town Newton Abbot near Dartmoor, in its lively Town Museum and Great Western Railway Museum rooms.

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Newton Abbot

Visit the historic market town of Newton Abbot in South Devon and wander around its markets, shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as its fascinating museum.

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Exmouth Pride

Celebrate with the Exmouth Pride event in Manor Gardens, with live entertainment, music, stalls and workshops for a rainbow-themed day.

Leah Cottam/Exmouth Pride

Gone Wild with Bear Grylls

Spend the weekend with Bear Grylls having an adventure the whole family will never forget at the Gone Wild festival at Powderham Castle, South Devon.

Panoptic Motion

Spring Classic

Head to one of the UK’s coolest festivals - Spring Classic - a mix of surf, music, skate and moto, in North Devon’s Woolacombe Bay

Luke Gartside/Spring Classic Festival

English Riviera Airshow

See the skies come alive with one of the country’s most spectacular air shows, set in one of the most beautiful coastlines, in Paignton, on Devon’s English Riviera.

Berry Head National Nature Reserve

You’ll be stunned by Berry Head, the dramatic headland nature reserve, near Brixham, with its famous guillemot colony.

The Tarka Trail

Get on your bike and join the spectacular Tarka Trail, along the clifftops, beaches and countryside of North Devon.

Marwood Hill Gardens

You’ll be delighted by the secret gardens of Marwood – a privately-owned glorious garden in a North Devon valley. Covering 20 acres, with three lakes, it makes a blooming marvellous day out.

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Walking with Llamas

For a llama with a panorama, take an amble with the delightful animals at Peak Hill Llamas, who offer walks in their stunning Sidmouth location on the Jurassic Coast

Walking With Llamas /Peak Hill Llamas

Braunton Burrows

Discover Braunton Burrows, the largest sand dune system in England. Covering 1000 hectares, it’s home to plant and wildlife and is the core of the North Devon Biosphere.

Getty Images/Suzanne Marshall

Powderham Castle

Visit the splendid Powderham Castle, south of Exeter, which is home to the Earl of Devon. It has been in the Courtenay family for over 600 years and guests can tour the house and grounds.

Royal Citadel

See inside the 17th century fortress on Plymouth Hoe, built to defend the coast and still in use by the military today. Visitors can only enter on organised tours.

Newton Abbot Indoor Market

Head into the heart of pretty market town Newton Abbot, to the thriving Indoor Market and Food Hall, packed with food and general stalls.

Getty Images/Alex Brunsdon

Princesshay shopping centre

Head to Exeter for some serious shopping at its bustling Princesshay Shopping Centre. With over 60 shops from fashion to food, there’s something to suit everybody here.

Moments to Media

Two Drifters Distillery

Take a tour of the carbon-negative rum distillery Two Drifters Distillery, near Exeter Airport and see how they make their increasingly popular sustainable tipple.

Christian Banfield

Featured things to do

Explore the Great Barrier Reef in Plymouth. Discover the colossal tanks of the National Marine Aquarium, Britain’s biggest aquarium.

Quince Honey Farm

Get a buzz out of exploring a working honey farm. Take an amble around Quince Honey Farm’s Nectar Gardens or extensive meadows rammed with sweet-smelling flowers. See millions of bees up close, visit the Honey Factory and take a peek behind the scenes at how the honey is produced.

Amble through Dartmoor

Fancy an early autumnal walk? Explore the beautiful surroundings of Dartmoor National Park. For an accessible experience look to the Miles Without Stiles route.

plymouthgin

Visit Plymouth Gin distillery

England’s oldest working distillery. Where better to learn about (and taste) the heritage of gin. All housed within a medieval building dating from 1431.

Places to stay in Devon

A cute harbour-side town in South Devon, where you can feast on freshly caught fish every day. It offers waterfront walks, a scenic beach and an outdoor Art Deco lido, Shoalstone Pool.

Croyde 

With its picture-perfect beach is perfect for surfers and those looking to learn or just soak up the vibe, complete with on-shore winds and Atlantic swells.  

A pretty little bohemian enclave set on the River Dart, where artists, musicians and lovers of all things organic and lots of independent shops and fair-trade cafés.

Explore nearby

Dartmoor and exmoor.

With tangled oak forests and looming peaks, it can feel like the edge of the world.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

A wellness retreat for the Romans and Georgian architecture around every corner.

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

Britain’s Ocean City offers a seamless blend of maritime charm and natural beauty; a cultural hub filled with award-winning museums and waterfront attractions.

Small but mighty, Exeter is a city with seriously cool credentials.

Exeter City Council

Getting to Devon

There are flights from many UK and international airports to Exeter International Airport . Devon is well served by trains from all over the country, and many of the routes are very picturesque, making it a great way to travel. The two main lines from London are from Paddington and Waterloo. You can also hire a car and drive, and coaches run from Exeter, Tiverton and Plymouth. 

Getting around

One of the best ways to get around is using the public transport network, from coach, train and bus. There’re taxis too.

Great Western Railway (GWR) operate a number of journeys across Devon from over 270 destinations by train.

Devon has a host of wonderful cycle routes, many of which are connected to the main cycle network and range in length and difficulty.

The bus service is extensive across Devon with plenty of chances to link to smaller routes.

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Devon for the top inside tips and travel inspirations.

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Devon (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Devon (England)

In England’s west country, Devon is a holiday favourite with sensational contrasts and variety.

In the south are the gentle resorts of the English Riviera, the fossil-riddled cliffs of the Jurassic Coast and long estuaries with beautiful waterside towns.

Inland are the ancient wildernesses of Dartmoor and Exmoor, places of legend and folklore, where wild ponies graze and run free.

And then there’s the rugged north coast, all rocky headlands, generous sandy beaches and rolling surf . But wherever you go you can’t leave without indulging in tea and scones with Devon’s luxurious clotted cream.

1. Dartmoor

The largest and least-inhabited open space in southern England, Dartmoor is as mysterious as it is visually breathtaking.

This wilderness is suffused with stories of headless horsemen, ghostly beasts and pixies, and has been inspiring artists and writers for centuries, most notably Arthur Conan Doyle when he wrote the Hound of the Baskervilles.

Giving the landscapes their incomparable ambience is the granite, which bursts through the surface at the summit of Dartmoor’s tors (hills), the highest points in Southern England.

Granite has been sculpted into a multitude of monuments around Dartmoor going back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age, all standing the test of time for the durability of this stone.

The name of this wonderful university city gives clues to its ancient origins, and Exeter was in fact the most southwesterly Roman fortification on  the British Isles.

Lose no time  in getting to the gothic cathedral, rightly considered one of England’s most beautiful.

Just stand in the nave and be astounded by the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling of any building in the country.

See the 14th-century Guildhall, which is the oldest civic building still performing its civic function, and suss out Exeter’s rich trading history at the historic quayside.

There’s much, much more besides, like the medieval subterranean tunnels and the fantastic Royal Albert Memorial Museum.

3. Plymouth

Few places could claim to have a maritime tradition as rich as Plymouth’s, which will forever recall names like Sir Francis Drake and the Mayflower, which set sail for America from this port.

Survey the seascape of Plymouth Sound from Plymouth Hoe as Sir Francis Drake is claimed to have done over a game of bowls, before boarding his warship Revenge to meet the Spanish Armada at the Battle of Gravelines in 1588. The Barbican is the most historic area in Plymouth, a waterside district of tight cobblestone streets, old inns and now artists’ studios and galleries.

Devon’s mild climate makes it a more reliable beach getaway than almost anywhere in England, and at the forefront has to be Torquay.

There are nine sandy beaches on the seafront of this endearing coastal town, three of which have the Blue Flag for the quality of the water and services for visitors.

And these glorious beaches go hand-in-hand with some seriously good family days out.

At Kents Cavern there’s 700,000 years of human history, so there’s a thrilling anthropological dimension to the tour of this outstanding natural formation.

Add to that, Babbacombe, a cliff-top district with a remarkable miniature village, the Living Coasts Zoo and the elegant Cockington Country House and park.

5. Dartmouth

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier coastal town in England than Dartmouth.

On the western bank of the Dart Estuary, the harbour has been a seafaring hub for many centuries.

Knights departed from the Crusades from Dartmouth and privateers were based in the town as early as medieval times.

Many alleys and lanes like Smith Street and Duke Street look much like they would have done in Tudor times and are crowded with old inns and merchants’ houses.

See the Grade I-listed Butterwalk, a delightful row of corbelled houses supported by stone columns.

And fans of whodunits can pay a visit to Greenway, holiday escape of Agatha Christie.

Overlapping with the neighbouring county of Somerset, Exmoor is the second of Devon’s two national parks, pushing up against the north coast of the county.

It’s a world of untamed sandstone moors, accessible via more than 1,000 kilometres of footpaths and bridleways, crossing rivers and snaking along green valleys and up summits like the 520-metre-high Dunkery Hill.

From the middle ages up to the 20th-century the local economy was sustained by the wool trade.

Left behind are interesting and beautiful vestiges of this industry, like water mills and yarn markets.

Exmoor Ponies run free in the park, and aren’t so much a breed as a species of pony, closely related to wild horses.

7. Woolacombe

On the North Devon Coast, the beach at Woolacombe, often listed as one of the greatest in Europe, is vast, sandy, cradled in greenery and with waves that are more than surfable.

So this packs in a mix of families and sun-seekers, but there’s more than enough space for both along these three miles.

For the best waves, surfers need only go a couple of miles down the coast to Coryde.

The beach there has what could be described as the best beachbreak in the country in the right conditions; a perfectly formed A-frame barrel best ridden in winter because of the on-shore winds and healthy Atlantic swell.

On the River Dart in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Totnes is a town a little out of the ordinary.

This is an upshot of its alternative community, fostering artists and musicians and giving rise to a twice weekly market with organic and fair-trade items.

For a casual visitor one of the many great things about Totnes’ independent spirit is the amount of locally-owned shops and eateries, a real breath of fresh air compared to a typical English high street.

For history and culture, explore the ruins of Totnes Castle, be transported to the 14th-century at the majestic Dartington Hall and track the history of the famous Pomeroy and Seymour families at the Tudor Berry Pomeroy Castle.

9. Sidmouth

Unlike many of the places covered so far, Sidmouth was just a small fishing village until wealthy Georgians and Victorians came to make the most of the sea air and waters at its shingle beach.

This sudden growth over the space of few decades gave the town many streets of stuccoed and painted hotels and houses, as well as a regal esplanade behind the beach.

Landward, Sidmouth is bounded on all sides by the East Devon Area of Natural Beauty and on the coast are the classic red cliffs of the Triassic period.

For real local culture come in the first week of August for the Sidmouth Folk Festival, with 700 events put on at venues around the town.

10. Jurassic Coast

Both east and west of Sidmouth is Devon’s stretch of the Jurassic Coast, which is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here 185 million years of geological history have been revealed by coastal erosion.

In different stages of its distant prehistory this part of the world has been many different types of environments, including marsh, sea and even desert, and emerging from the cliff faces and rocks are the fossils of the massive variety of animals and plants that lived here.

So needless to say, if you’re a fossil hunter the East Devon coast will be a dreamland, following in the footsteps of Mary Anning, whose amazing fossil discoveries in the 1800s changed the world’s understanding prehistoric life.

11. Paignton

Right in the heart of Torbay, the length of coastline unofficially known as the English Riviera, Paignton is a seaside escape for both families and couples.

If you require lots of entertainment for little ones then Paignton Beach is the way to go, with a long pleasure pier and the imaginative Geoplay Park on the foreshore.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is an animal attraction with a conscience and up there with England’s top zoos.

And if you need a wide open, seemingly boundless beach Goodrington Sands next-door or the divine Broadsands will do the trick.

Adding some Victorian atmosphere to the setting is the Dartmouth steam railway, with grand locomotives passing above these beaches in the summer.

12. Exmouth

The seaside resort of Exmouth has a location full of drama on the east bank of the River Exe where it enters the sea.

On the town’s esplanade the vistas over the estuary are incredible, and at Exmouth Landing you can set sail on a ferry for a short voyage across to the village of Starcross on the west bank.

The sandy Exmouth is a joy, and the Southwest Coast Path, which encompasses all of Devon and Cornwall’s coastline will lead you to the rugged Orcombe Point in a couple of minutes, and then the high bluffs and natural beaches of the Devon Cliffs a little way beyond that.

An eccentric stately home close by is A La Ronde, a 16-sided house from the 1700s open to the public, thanks to the National Trust.

13. Tavistock

An alternative to Devon’s seaside resorts, Tavistock is a rural market town on the edge of Dartmoor to the west of the county.

For several hundred years Tavistock was known for its stannaries, tin mines that were exclusive to Cornwall and Devon.

Just across the border these chimerical old sites are listed by UNESCO.  And throughout this time, all the way from the 1300s to the present day, the Pannier Market has been in business.

Unlike many of the country’s markets this one is as bustling as ever, and has stalls selling anything from furniture and handicrafts to regional treats like fudge and jams.

And after that you can do a circuit of Tavistock’s low-key but endearing landmarks, such as the ruins of Tavistock Abbey and Bedford Square where you’re greeted by the lovely gothic town hall.

14. Ilfracombe

Nestled in hilly scenery that plunges to the water down sharp cliff-sides, Ilfracombe is a charming rural town that also has all the fun of the seaside.

On the South West Coast Path you’ll be treated to some of the region’s prettiest views as you approach Ilfracombe from  Hillsborough Hill to the east and see the greenery and the headlands protecting the town.

Right above the harbour is Lantern Hill, topped with a 14th-century chapel that has carried a beacon to guide boats into port since the 1600s.

And from the harbour you could catch a boat to Lundy Island, which has large numbers of seals and puffins.

The sleepy seaside town of Seaton could be a good choice if you’re in need of a convenient location on the Jurassic Coast.

There’s a new visitor centre that gives you some extra insights about the coastline, and would go well with an afternoon hunting for fossils.

The Seaton Tramway is a heritage line that runs inland next to the Axe River Estuary to the charming towns of Colyton and Colyford.

Just west of Seaton is the village of Beer, with soaring limestone cliffs that were quarried extensively from medieval times for stone that was used in many churches and cathedrals like London’s Westminster Abbey and St Pauls.

The quarry’s tunnels are now a fascinating tourist attraction.

15 Best Places to Visit in Devon (England):

• Jurassic Coast

Devon Travel Guide (Best tips, itinerary ideas + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Our  Devon Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful counties in England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Devon!

Let’s plan your visit to Devon

Devon in  England’s south west  is England’s third-largest county and a top destination for British holidaymakers.

Boasting of two stunning coastlines (North/South), beautiful beaches,  castles , historical treasures and quaint towns and villages it has something to appeal to every age group. It is a fantastic destination for families, couples, solo travellers.

Use the information in this guide to Devon to plan your very best trip. You will find everything you need in this article including a map of Devon, the very best things to do and see in Devon, where to stay in Devon and answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Devon.

What you will find in this complete Devon Travel Guide

Devon Travel Guide – Map of Devon

• FAQ's – Visiting Devon

When is the best time of year to visit Devon?

How long should i plan to spend in devon, what are the very best places to visit in devon, what traditional food should i try in devon, how to travel to devon from london, how can i get around devon, best attractions, places to visit & things to do in devon, places to stay in devon, best tours to devon from london, experiences, tickets and trips to book in devon, enjoy your visit to devon.

FAQ’s – Visiting Devon

Devon is beautiful during all seasons and can be very busy in spring and over the warm summer months. Autumn is quieter and a great time to go – the crowds have disappeared, children are back at school but the days can be warm and the days still light well into the evening.

Average temperatures range from lows of 7/8 degrees in January to highs of 19/20 in the summer.

If you are planning to visit Devon and Cornwall on a road trip I would recommend at least 10 days to enjoy the best of both counties. (Itinerary coming soon)

Devon is the perfect weekend destination from London and you can certainly fit many Devon tourist attractions into 48 hours including some of Devon’s most iconic destinations such as Dartmoor National Park, Burgh Island and the Jurassic Coast (part of which is shared with neighbouring Dorset )

You can find out more about the best places to visit in Devon in my complete guide. If you are planning must-do days out in Devon for your itinerary my choice of the best places & top 5 things to do in Devon are:

• Enjoy the open moorlands, valleys and wildlife in Dartmoor National Park
• Take a trip to Burgh Island (a tidal island with the exclusive Burgh Island hotel famous for its Art Deco architecture and links to Agatha Christie)
• Explore the Jurassic Coast (you may discover fossils!)
• Take a road trip around many pretty Devon villages including Lynton and Lynmouth, Woolacombe, and Beer.
• Take a ride on one of the heritage railways such as the South Devon Railway or Linton and Barnstable Railway.

Yummy! So much delicious food to eat in Devon (especially if you love dairy) I highly recommend tantalising your tastebuds with the following:

• Cheeses including Harbourne Blue, Vulscombe, Curworthy, Ticklemore and Friesla (there are more with equally wonderful names)
• Devonshire Clotted Cream fudge
• Potted crab
• Devonshire Cream Tea
• Fish and chips
• And if you enjoy gin you may be interested to know that the oldest working gin distillery can be found in Plymouth!

Devon is located approximately 175 miles from London. There are a number of transportation options to get to Devon.

• London to Devon by car – this will take 3 1/2 hours (beware of traffic in summer and holiday months!) You will pass Stonehenge on the way so be sure to book tickets if you want to stop off for a look around.
• London to Devon by bus – National Express buses leave from Victoria Coach Station. Journey time is 5 hours to Exeter. Cost – £10 – 14
• Take the train from Paddington to Plymouth. The journey takes around 2 1/2 hours. Pick up a car rental in Plymouth.
• Alternatively, take a train from London Paddington to Exeter St David’s to pick up a train to Barnstable.
• Barnstable is also where you can take the Tarka Line one of the UK’s great scenic journeys.
• A new train line (the Dartmoor Line) opened up in November 2021 which runs trains between Exeter and Okehampton.
• London to Devon on a group tour – see below for options.

Read – How to get around the UK – a complete guide to transportation (trains, planes and automobiles)

• Hire a car – compare rates for the best deals we recommend Discover Cars .
• Great Western Railway operates in Devon and serves 270 destinations by train in the county. Check timetables and ticket prices with the trainline
• Stagecoach runs the bus services between towns and villages in Devon. There are a number of bus passes available.
• Cycle – Yes you can cycle Devon! There are routes to suit all ages and levels of ability. More information coming soon.

THINGS TO DO IN NORTH DEVON

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH DEVON

BEST DEVON ITINERARY

JURASSIC COAST TRAVEL GUIDE (INCLUDES DORSET)

WHERE TO STAY IN DEVON – ACCOMMODATION & LOCATION GUIDE

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England

• 3-Day Stonehenge, Bath & South West Coast Tour

Explore the best of the southwest of England on a 3-day tour from London. See the prehistoric stones of Stonehenge, drive along the fabled Jurassic Coast, venture into the wilds of Dartmoor, and visit the historic cities of Exeter and Bath.

• Devon and Cornwall: 5-Day Tour from London

Enjoy 5 days exploring Devon and Cornwall. Home to the legends of King Arthur, Celtic Kingdoms and Roman towns, stop at beautiful beaches and wild moorlands. Visit Norman cathedrals and extraordinary coastlines as you see this beautiful pocket of England.

• Gliding Experience in Devon – Climb up to a height of one mile above the beautiful Devonshire countryside, on reaching this height we will stop the engine and peacefully glide back down to earth.
• Life and times of Agatha Christie walking tour – The walking tour takes guests around Torquay’s seafront, highlighting the places that played a part in Agatha’s life and influenced her writing. You’ll be walking in the steps of the world’s greatest authors!
• Hot Air Balloon Flight from Exeter – Enjoy a Champagne Hot Air Balloon flight over the beautiful City of Exeter and the surrounding Devon countryside. Take in the stunning English scenery as you float effortlessly through the sky. Minimum of two people.
• Lake District Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Bath Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Top 10 things to do in South East England
• Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

5 secret, pretty places to visit in Devon

By Suzy Bennett

In a county as large as  Devon , there’s plenty of space to find bucolic bliss without clapping eyes on a coach party or selfie stick. There are two beautiful coastlines – one wild and wuthering, one soft and sunny – a pair of vast wildernesses and hundreds of pretty towns and villages in between. Yet every season, thousands of holidaymakers head for the same few spots, clogging narrow lanes, swamping the same old selection of chocolate-box villages and causing bun fights over parking. 

Stray off the beaten track and you’ll reap rewards: an authentic welcome, honest prices and a unique travel experience – plus you’ll be supporting small, independent rural businesses. Here are our five favourite secret places to visit in Devon, guaranteed to be as crowd free as they are lovely.

Mysteriously bypassed by the tourist trail, Shaldon, on the Teign estuary, is a waterside idyll pretty enough to rival Salcombe, its overcrowded neighbour further down the coast. Elegant Georgian homes, botanical gardens, a  wildlife sanctuary , excellent  pubs  and  restaurants , a beautiful river, and not one, but two  beaches  make this Devon’s best-kept waterside secret.

At its centre is a neatly-kept bowling green surrounded by handsome Georgian houses. Twisting lanes flanked by thatched cottages lead to a crowd-free, gently-sloping sand and shingle beach, where paddleboarding, kayaking and yachting are options. Around the next promontory is Ness Cove Beach, accessed, thrillingly, through an echoey smugglers’ tunnel carved through sandstone rocks. Swathes of soft, rust-red sand are exposed here at low tide.

Café ODE , at the top of the  village , is Devon chef Tim Bouget’s pioneering sustainable restaurant and cafe, which serves imaginatively cooked seasonal breakfasts, brunches and lunches – think fallow deer burgers or crumbed plaice fillets with basil and lime aioli. The building is constructed from locally quarried stone and powered by renewable energy sources, benches are made from reclaimed materials and menu boards were salvaged from a skip. Bouget can often be seen foraging for sea lettuce and rock samphire at Ness Cove.

The Ness House , a handsome colonial-style mansion overlooking the water, is the best place to stay (Room 2 has the best views and a wrought-iron wraparound balcony), or book into one of the five ergonomically designed  beach huts , converted from a former chandlery, on Shaldon beach. Britain’s oldest  foot ferry , dating from Saxon times, shuttles regularly between Shaldon and Teignmouth.

Lundy Island

Very little has changed on this craggy, three-mile-long island, off Hartland Point in North Devon, since the piratical de Marisco family installed themselves in the 12th century to raid ships along the Bristol Channel. The family’s fortunes fell in 1238 when William de Marisco was found to be plotting against Henry III, and was hung, drawn and quartered for treason. The castle erected by Henry III on Lundy’s southern end dates from this time.

As off the beaten track as you can safely get in Devon without venturing into Dartmoor’s wilderness, Lundy has fewer than thirty full-time residents, no cars, intermittent phone signal, no Wi-Fi, limited electricity and just one pub and shop. The big draw is the birdlife - puffins, kittiwakes, fulmars, shags and Manx shearwaters seek refuge here – and organised scuba diving and climbing expeditions are available.

In  winter , a helicopter makes the seven-minute journey between Hartland Point and Lundy, offering spectacular aerial views of the island and North Devon. In summer, the graceful MS Oldenburg, the island’s supply ship, with wood panelling and brass fittings, departs several times a week from either Bideford or Ilfracombe.

Chagford, Dartmoor

If you like your  countryside  wild but your towns cultured, Chagford, in Dartmoor National Park, offers a heady shot of both. Arty, foodie and ecologically-minded, this former stannary town has a vibrant and dynamic centre full of independent retailers, and one of Dartmoor’s most spectacular walks, Fingle Gorge, is on the doorstep.

Music, film and literary festivals are held during the spring and summer months, while talks, supper clubs and fireside pub roasts fill the winter. Centred around the octagonal Pepper Pot – the site of the town’s market house – is a  florist ,  deli ,  antique shop ,  art gallery ,  dairy ,  luxury craft shop ,  bookstore , chemist, greengrocer,  wine merchant , numerous pubs and cafes,  a hardware store , newsagents, organic food shop, butcher,  baker … everything but the candlestick maker.

Stay in one of the hip rooms at  Folklore , or  Upper Barn  or  Lower Barn , just out of town.

Heddon’s Mouth

A beach so secret that a German U-boat anchored here undetected during World War II to enjoy some R&R, Heddon’s Mouth is a rocky cove hidden from view from land by huge cliffs and thickly forested slopes. A rugged, two-mile  walk  from the nearest car park and an absence of facilities puts off all but the most determined beachgoers. The woodland track leading from a National Trust car park traces the valley along River Heddon towards the  Bristol  Channel and is the only way to access this lofty seven-mile section of coastline, which has some of the highest cliffs in England. Look out for otters, the rare high brown fritillary butterfly and a 19th-century lime kiln on the beach.

The Red Lion, Clovelly

Clovelly is hardly a secret – crowds of tourists come to gawp at this privately-owned, chocolate-box fishing village on Devon’s north coast every season – but stay overnight and, come sunset, when the coach parties have left, you’ll have the village virtually to yourself.  The Red Lion is set on the timeless cobbled harbour – one of the most photographed locations in Devon – where you can wander like a local and pant your way up and down the village’s steep, car-free alleyways, admiring cute whitewashed cottages and exhilarating sea views. The village has a small museum, craft centre and donkey rides and is on the South West Coastal path.

13 Amazing Places To Visit In Devon This Year

From adorable fishing villages and a coast filled with fossils, to rugged national parks, vibrant cities and pristine beaches, there are plenty of amazing places to visit in Devon.

Head to the south west of England, and you’re in for a treat! While many zoom straight past Devon in favour of Cornwall, I’m here to tell you why you shouldn’t just pass through. Devon is an absolutely incredible county in its own right.

It’s long been popular with families who visit the same sandy beaches year after year. I should know, after all I was one of them! Every August, we’d pack the car up and drive the five hours to the South Devon coast. We’d rent a cottage near one of the county’s best beaches, Bantham, which sits in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

I have such happy memories of these trips, so much so I’m desperate to return. I’ve already got my eye on a few of these Classic Cottages in Devon, and can’t wait to head off on a trip down memory lane.

From the charming car-free fishing village of Clovelly and the vibrant city of Plymouth, to the raw and rugged natural beauty of Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, there are so many great destinations to choose from.

Whether you’re just starting to plan a trip or you’ve already got something booked and want to figure out your route, this guide to the best places to visit in Devon will definitely help inspire you!

13 Amazing Places To Visit In Devon

Devon’s jurassic coast.

When people talk about the Jurassic Coast, my mind instantly thinks of Dorset. However, a big chunk of it lies in Devon. The Jurassic Coast stretches from Exmouth in Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the best ways to explore the section in Devon is to walk along the South West Coast Path , taking in the views as you.

The start of the coast is marked by 5 metre Geo-needle at Orcombe Point in Exmouth. Highlights along Devon’s Jurassic Coast include the red rock stacks at Ladram Bay and the soft chalk cliffs around Branscombe Beach and Beer. There are pretty seaside resort towns along the way too, including Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth and Seaton.

Burgh Island

This is a spot I have very fond memories of from my childhood. Every year we’d go on a day trip from Bantham to Bigbury-on-Sea, then make the crossing to this tidal island. Burgh Island is reachable at low tide by walking along the sand bar. At high tide though, it’s more of an adventure as you climb on board the famous sea tractor!

The island is very pretty too. One of the highlights is art deco masterpiece, The Burgh Island Hotel. It was built in 1929 and is steeped in 30s glamour. The interiors feature stunning chandeliers, vintage furniture, a retro bar area and the whole place oozes 5-star luxury.

It’s famed for hosting murder mystery nights too. Considering Poirot author Agatha Christie wrote two of her books here, I’d say it’s the perfect location for a whodunnit!

If you’re travelling around Devon on your trip, I’d recommend spending a day in Plymouth. This coastal city offers a lot, but life still moves at a comfortable and relaxed seaside pace. Visit Plymouth Hoe to take in the views across to Plymouth Sound, and take some photos of the iconic red and white striped lighthouse. Fancy a swim? You could take a dip in the iconic art deco swimming pool, Tinside Lido.

You could spend an afternoon shopping, go on a boat trip or even take a tour of the Plymouth Gin Distillery. Launching in 1793, it’s the oldest working gin distillery in England. Finishing the day with a G&T in the sunshine sounds pretty perfect to me!

Dartmoor National Park

Visit Dartmoor National Park and you’ll get to see Devon’s wild side! It’s vast, at 368 square miles, and the scenery is dramatic, with open moorlands, woodland, granite rocks, rolling hills, river valleys, ancient historic landmarks and more.

You could hop on two wheels and explore the national park on a mountain bike, walk one of the many miles of walking trails or visit one of the castles, which include Castle Drogo and Okehampton Castle.

Wildlife lovers will adore this region too! So many creatures call Dartmoor home including otters, bats, cows, horses, newts, frogs, lizards, birds, butterflies and dragonflies.

I can’t write about Devon without wandering off into a daydream about this beautiful coastal village. I honestly believe this is one of the best beaches in Devon! Huge, wide sand, great surf waves, rock pools at low tide, cliffs to clamber up, sand dunes, and the River Avon estuary make this a truly beautiful part of the county. If you visit on a sunny day, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled to somewhere a lot further afield!

As well as the beach there’s village pub The Sloop Inn and a village shop for any supplies you need. The walks around this area are breath-taking too. I’d recommend strolling along the headland from Bantham towards Thurlestone and Hope Cove. I might be a bit biased, but I believe this is one of the best places to visit in Devon.

If you’re thinking of visiting, I’d recommend taking a look at these gorgeous Devon cottages with sea views . There are so many picturesque options to choose from.

Lundy Island

Did you know there’s a small island off the coast of North Devon that is famous for wildlife? Lundy Island is popular with divers, climbers and birdwatchers, and is one of the best places in the UK to see seals in their natural habitat. For one of the most memorable experiences, you can go diving with the seals here!

The crossing to Lundy takes around 2 hours by boat from Bideford or Ilfracombe. It’s a small island, but there’s plenty to see on a day trip, including the remains of Bronze Age settlements, a Medieval castle, a Georgian lighthouse and even a pub serving fine pub grub!

Exmoor National Park

If you’re looking for something a little different to Dartmoor, how about a trip to Exmoor National Park ? It’s smaller than Dartmoor at just 267 square miles and doesn’t have the same wildness about it. It’s more like a pretty area of countryside, dotted with traditional villages, fields and coastline to explore.

One of my favourite things about Exmoor is that it’s known for having some of the darkest skies in the country. It was even named as Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. I’d recommend exploring the national park during the day, then returning after dinner for a spot of stargazing. You could even attend the annual Dark Skies Festival which takes place in October.

If you’re looking for one of the best surf beaches in the United Kingdom, definitely visit Croyde. Located on the North Devon Coast, Croyde is home to three sandy beaches and a lovely village with everything you could need for a relaxed break.

You don’t have to love surfing to appreciate this place either! The beaches are lovely for dog walks, swimming or just admiring from a bench! Croyde Bay and the other villages close by have lots of great independent shops and restaurants too. Stop by Croyde’s Ice Cream Parlour for a scoop of your favourite flavour or while away an afternoon at local pub The Thatch.

Clovelly in North Devon is one of those English seaside villages you see on postcards. It’s so perfect! There’s a feeling of turning back the clock when you visit, as even today it’s car-free. I watched a programme recently about the village where someone was moving in to a home there, and had to organise for all of their possessions to be delivered on old fashioned carts and sledges!

The village itself is perched on the edge of a 400-foot cliff and has steep, cobbled streets, historic houses, an ancient fishing harbour and stunning views. There’s a charge to enter the village (£8.50 per adult when I last checked) but this includes parking and entrance to the museums.

Clovelly is one of the best places to visit in Devon, but that means it can get extremely busy. I’d recommend visiting early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds.

If you fancy an upmarket holiday in Devon, I’d recommend staying in Salcombe. Life here centres around sailing, and the picturesque town becomes filled with the yachtie community over the summer months. The views over the estuary are magical, especially when the sun is shining.

There’s plenty to do in Salcombe too. You could hire a boat, go for a swim or try out stand up paddle boarding. There’s a great walking route from Salcombe, along the estuary to Hope Cove – ideal for anyone who loves photography.

The town has a few old-fashioned streets with chic independent stores, seafood restaurants and cafes. Plus, don’t forget to sample some of the local produce. Salcombe Gin has a great reputation, as does the delicious ice cream from Salcombe Dairy. That sounds like the perfect holiday diet to me!

If you’re looking for an historic market town to visit in Devon, I’d recommend taking a trip to Dartmouth .

Perched on the banks of the River Dart, this town offers a little bit of everything. There’s a castle, a few museums, great shopping and a handful of places to eat and drink.

Dartmouth Castle is one of the town’s most famous landmarks. First constructed in 1388, this castle has been guarding the entrance to the Dart Estuary for well over 600 years.

If you’re a foodie, I’d recommend visiting during October when the annual Dartmouth Food Festival takes place. Alternatively, if you’re more interested in getting out on the water, there’s a big regatta in the town every August.

The English Riviera

While our equivalent of St. Tropez and Cannes doesn’t quite have the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera, the English Riviera offers a lot to British tourists looking for beautiful places to visit in Devon. This section of the coast is protected by the hills in Dartmoor, and as a result it has a warmer microclimate.

Stretching for 22 miles along the South Devon coastline, the English Riviera includes the towns of Torquay, Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham in the Torbay area. The Victorian’s loved visiting these seaside resort towns, and marked them firmly on the map. More recently, the English Riviera earned UNESCO Global Geopark status, meaning it’s globally recognised for being of unique geological interest. How amazing is that?

With charming towns, sandy beaches and lots of attractions, this area is still very popular with tourists. Highlights include the highest cliff-top promenade in England which is in Babbacombe Bay, Paignton Zoo, fresh fish in Brixham and Berry Head National Nature Reserve.

Exeter often plays second fiddle to Plymouth, but this city still has a lot to offer. The most prominent landmark is its spectacular cathedral. With over 900 years of history, Exeter Cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic architecture. Inside you’ll see some unique items including the Exon Domesday, Shakespeare’s Second Folio and Medieval wax offerings. Fascinatingly, there’s also a working astronomical clock from the 1400s which gives you an idea of how people thought our solar system looked!

One of my top suggestions would be to take a tour of the roof. It’s amazing to get up there and see the cathedral and the city from above.

I hope you’ve enjoyed hearing about all of these beautiful places to visit in Devon. Have an amazing trip, wherever you decide to travel to! If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my guides to unique places to visit in Cornwall and places to visit in Dorset .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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17 beautiful places to visit in devon for a great day out [2024].

From sandy beaches to rural moors, there are so many beautiful places to visit in Devon.

Having been lucky enough to live here for the past four years, I’ve explored all of Devon’s nooks and crannies.

So I know exactly where all the most gorgeous places are!

If you are unfamiliar with the area, Devon is a county in southwest England, best known for its stunning coastline.

A popular tourist resort for many Brits who are opting for staycations over holidays abroad, Devon is well-loved by locals and travellers alike.

So if you fancy seeing what all the fuss is about, here are 17 beautiful places to visit in Devon for a great day out (or even a longer holiday!).

1. The English Riviera

One of my favourite places to visit in Devon is the English Riviera so, of course , it’s number one on this list!

The English Riviera , comprised of the seasides towns of Torquay, Torbay, Paignton and Brixham, is the closest thing you’ll get to being abroad in England.

Their busy harboursides, with palm trees dotted everywhere, are totally reminiscent of the Mediterranean.

Make sure you chow down on some traditional fish and chips while you’re there!

2. Clovelly

Clovelly is a picture-postcard dream of a village.

Located in North Devon, Clovelly is most famous for its steep pedestrianised and bloody beautiful cobbled main street!

From boat trips along the coast to spectacular cliff-top views, ther’lenty to see and do in Clovelly.

But don’t take my word for it – it has even been dubbed “the prettiest village in Devon”.

Be aware though that like Portmeirion , you actually need to pay a £7 fee to visit Clovelly.

Looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than Exmoor National Park

! A beautiful landscape of moorland, woodland, coast and rivers, Exmoor is the perfect place to lose yourself in nature.

Or to partake in loads of adventure activities. Whatever floats your boat.

I recommend visiting Dunster Castle and the Valley of the Rocks, two must-see places to visit in Devon!

A market town perched at the head of the estuary of the River Dart in South Devon, Totnes is oh so cute!

Home to lots of unique independent shops and locally produced food, you could easily spend a day exploring Totnes’ nooks and crannies.

Avid historians will fall head over heels for Totnes Castle and Berry Pomeroy Castle.

And a visit to the gorgeous Sharpham Vineyard will keep wine and cheese lovers entertained for hours!

5. Salcombe

Britain’s answer to Santorini, Salcombe is by far one of my favourite places to visit in Devon.

This gorgeous town is located in the South Hams district of Devon within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

With a distinctly Mediterranean feel, palm trees litter the colourful, pastel streets of Salcombe.

Wander down Salcombe’s narrow winding side streets and you will discover cafes and shops galore!

6. Appledore

Visiting Appledore a day keeps the doctor away!

Moving back up to North Devon, Appledore is a charming little fishing village known for its winding narrow streets and colourful houses.

Nearby to Barnstaple, Bideford and Westward Ho!, Appledore is a great base for exploring more of North Devon’s coastline.

Top tip: If you’re a bibliophile, visit in September for Appledore Book Festival which features talks and activities with a range of international writers.

Exeter , the county town of Devon, has been my home for the past four years.

I could not love this charming little city more if I tried.

There’s plenty to see in Exeter from the beautiful and historic quayside to Exeter Cathedral, pictured above.

Exeter is also home to lots of shops to browse and an abundance of cute cafes and restaurants to satisfy your tastebuds.

8. Watermouth

Watermouth is a sheltered bay and hamlet on the North Devon coast, boasting lush greenery and views to die for.

Top tip: the views are especially great from Watermouth Harbour and Widemouth Head!

Fun for all the family, there’s also Watermouth Castle, a beautiful Victorian castle that has since been turned into a small family theme park.

But by far my favourite part of Watermouth is Broadsands Beach.

No, not the one in Paignton. The less famous – though arguably far more beautiful – one. Visit and see for yourself.

Croyde is one of North Devon’s tourist hotspots and it’s no surprise. I mean, look at it!

A real breath of fresh air, Croyde is the perfect destination to get off the grid.

Get ready to lounge on some superb sandy beaches and eye up some spectacular scenery.

However, don’t think it’s going to be all relaxation here.

Croyde is also the surfing capital of North Devon so whether you are an expert or if you’ve never stepped foot on a surfboard before, it’s time to catch a wave.

10. Lundy Island

The largest island in the Bristol Channel, Lundy Island is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Devon.

With tremendous views of the sea and mainland, the island is nothing short of breathtaking.

However, not only does Lundy boast amazing views but there’s also so much to do here!

From diving and climbing to walking and fishing, there’s no chance of getting bored on a day trip to Lundy.

Plus, the island also has a milder climate with more sunshine and less rain. What’s not to love?!

11. Dartmouth

Heading back down South, Dartmouth is a popular tourist destination situated on the banks of the picturesque River Dart.

While it’s great for shopping, food and drink, Dartmouth is perhaps most famous for its significant naval history.

This means that there are plenty of historical sites to explore from Dartmouth Castle , a 14th-century fortress with gorgeous estuary views, to Bayard’s Cove Fort, a 16th-century artillery blockhouse.

12. Ilfracombe

A hugely popular seaside resort, Ilfracombe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Devon.

As part of the North Devon Coast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this area offers exactly what it says on the tin. Outstanding natural beauty!

With so many things to see and do along the coast, I’d argue that Ilfracombe warrants more than just a day’s visit.

13. Plymouth

A port city not too far from Exeter, Plymouth is Devon’s only other city.

Known for its maritime heritage, Plymouth Hoe and a historic Barbican district with narrow, cobbled streets, Plymouth makes for a great day trip in Devon.

Offering everything from gardens and wildlife, to theatre, live music and art, there’s no chance of getting bored on a day trip to Plymouth.

Not only does this quintessential British seaside village have a fantastic name, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Devon.

If you cannot decide whether you are in the mood for the countryside or coast, Beer provides the best of both worlds.

The village is best known for its beautiful beach which is a natural suntrap, great for those sunny summer days.

But for those days when the British weather can’t quite make up its mind, I’d recommend heading to Beer Quarry Caves instead.

15. Burgh Island

Another island and this one is just as, if not more, unique as the last!

Burgh Island is a very small tidal island near the seaside village of Bigbury-on-Sea on the coast of South Devon.

While it may just look like a quiet little island, Burgh Island plays host to many weddings, parties and live music events!

Most famous for its art deco hotel, voted the “most romantic hotel in Britain” in 2012, you’d be silly not to fall head over heels for Burgh Island.

16. Woolacombe

Moving back up the North Devon coast, Woolacombe is a famous seaside resort and undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Devon.

If you’re after beautiful beaches and blue seas but cannot afford the price tag for an overseas escape, Woolacombe is a great middle ground.

I mean, Woolacombe Beach was voted the best beach in the UK on Tripadvisor , after all.

17. Dartmoor

Travel to Dartmoor and you will be rewarded with a magical, ancient landscape, filled with deep valleys, wide-open spaces and fast-flowing rivers.

With amazing walking and cycle routes, climbing, horse riding and watersports, Dartmoor can keep you active if that’s your thing.

But it’s equally great for those who just fancy relaxing and immersing themselves in nature.

So have I persuaded you to embark on one of these day trips? There are just too many beautiful places to visit in Devon. I guess you’ll have to see its beauty for yourself!

20 beautiful places to visit in Devon

Located in the South West of England, Devon is a popular UK staycation destination for Brits and offers a strong pull for international visitors too. And I can see why!

I love this charming county and keep on returning time and time again to explore more if its corners. With its towering white cliffs, sandy beaches, and rugged moorland, Devon is a haven of natural beauty.

Wander around the picture-perfect waterside towns, go hiking in the National Parks, or get your surfboard at the ready and enjoy the world-renowned surf breaks.

From the quaint charm of sleepy fishing villages to the glamour of the English Riviera, I really believe that Devon has something for everyone.

With so much to see and do across both North Devon and South Devon, I completely understand that it can be difficult to know where to start – but don’t worry because I’m here to help!

Whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a family-friendly staycation, or a more adrenaline-fuelled escape, here are my all-time favourite places to visit in Devon.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Best places to visit in North Devon

From charming fishing villages to a vast National Park, here are is my handpicked selection of the best places to visit in North Devon.

Best for: A slower pace of life

Must-do: North Devon Maritime Museum

Where to stay: Appledore Factory

Appledore is a historic fishing village steeped in tradition, where visitors can wander narrow cobbled streets lined with pastel-coloured cottages.

Defined by its slower pace of life, I think it’s a welcome shift from the chaos of modern life. Appledore is utterly charming and extremely Instagrammable!

With its dramatic estuary, the village was an important shipbuilding centre.

I’d recommend a visit to the North Devon Maritime Museum to learn about the village’s fascinating maritime heritage. It’s located in a Grade II listed Georgian building.

Discover the pretty quay filled with a combination of quaint fishing boats and more luxury yachts. I can see why Appledore is one of the best places to visit in Devon.

I love that Appledore is a village of creativity with a strong art scene that includes regular arts festivals, crafts shows, and a world-renowned literary festival.

Try some of the fresh local produce in one of the many eateries, and I know you won’t want to miss indulginig in the village’s famous ice cream. 

The relatively quiet sandy beaches provide an idyllic treat for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Families will enjoy The Big Sheep adventure park, where you can pet animals and enjoy fun rides – oh, and there’s sheep racing too!

For a seafaring adventure, I’d advise taking a boat or fishing trip from the quay; the Appledore-Instow Ferry transports passengers to the picturesque village of Instow.

Insider travel tip: For some fun outdoor activities, head to Skern Lodge, where you’ll find high ropes courses, climbing walls, kayaking, rafting, and surfing.

Best for: Picture-perfect estuary views

Must-do: Barnstaple Museum

Where to stay: The Imperial Hotel

The largest town in North Devon, Barnstaple is an ancient market town situated on the River Taw. Dating back to 930 AD, it is considered to be the oldest borough in the UK.

I love visiting Barnstaple because it’s a wonderfully thriving town with a lively and social feel. Visitors will find a mixture of recognisable high street brands, as well as boutique independent shops.

One of the famous attractions of Barnstaple is the historic Pannier Market, which hosts various events and markets.

I’d also recommend exploring the various local museums, where you can learn more about the North Devon region. Barnstaple Museum has free admission and is certainly worth a visit.

The town also holds regular arts and crafts events throughout the year, making it one of the best places to visit in Devon for art lovers.

Insider travel tip: Barnstaple is a good base to explore the scenic Tarka Trail. It also benefits from being close to the beautiful beaches of Croyde and Woolacombe.

Best for: Quaint charm

Must-do: See the Clovelly donkeys

Where to stay: Red Lion Hotel

Clovelly is an extraordinarily picturesque harbour village in North Devon and I know you’re going to love this one!

Clinging to a 400 foot cliff, it is situated on a very steep hill which brings breathtaking views across the Bristol Channel.

Once owned by the Queen of England, Clovelly is steeped in history and holds a truly magical appeal.

Wander the cobbled streets lined with charming cottages, all complete with pretty hanging baskets that overflow with fuchsias and geraniums.

Clovelly has a working harbour with a 14th century quay, owing to the village’s strong maritime heritage. You learn more about the history of this unique village in a film-show at the Visitor Centre.

The main street is pedestrianised – with no cars, just donkeys and sledges, I just adore the unique appeal of this village.

Be sure to see the donkeys before you leave, as these are all part of the experience of visiting this village. Bursting with quaint charm, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Devon.

Insider travel tip: Believe it or not, there’s actually a small fee to enter the privately-owned village, which is testament to its popular appeal. The fee also helps the village retain its original charm and atmosphere.

Best for: Surfing

Must-do: Have a surfing lesson

Where to stay: Saunton Sands Hotel Source Spa and Wellness

Part of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, I love that Croyde merges traditional seaside town charm with cool surf vibes.

It’s one of the most popular surf spots in Devon and is commonly referred to as the surfing capital of Devon.

There are plenty of places to hire surf equipment and book lessons. Or for another thrill-seeking activity, I’d really recommend trying coasteering.

The village itself is pretty, unspoilt, and carries an old-world charm. One of the best places to visit in Devon, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere and a friendly community.

There are a number of traditional Devonshire pubs, complete with thatched roofs, as well as wonderful eateries serving fresh local produce.

Croyde is well set up for holidaymakers, with seafront hotels to stay in, and plenty of fun activities. Popular events include Deckchair Cinema in the summer, and the Goldcoast OceanFest in June.

A popular coastal walking trail that I’d recommend is the National Trust’s Baggy Point, which is accessible for all ages and abilities. Enjoy stunning scenery and breathtaking views on this wonderful walk.

For a more relaxing retreat, there are three beautiful sandy beaches to enjoy. Visitors can also go on a rockpool ramble.  

Best for: Wild landscapes and wildlife

Must-do: A digital detox in the National Park

Where to stay: The Exmoor Forest Inn

One of two National Parks in Devon, Exmoor National Park offers 267 square miles of breathtaking scenery.

It’s a landscape of high rolling moorland, ancient woodland, rocky beaches, and crystal-clear rivers. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the famous Exmoor ponies and wild red deer.

Exmoor backs onto the north coast of Devon and brings a dramatic coastline of cliffs and headlands, with some of the highest cliffs in England.

One of the most iconic places to visit in Devon, I think the National Park is a perfect destination for a digital detox immersed in nature. It’s perfect for long walks, with over 1,000 km of footpaths and bridleways.

Walking aside, there are plenty of other activities. Canoe along the rivers, go horse riding or pony trekking, or try game shooting.

For the thrill-seekers, get the adrenaline pumping with mountain biking, white water kayaking, and rock climbing. Or for a more unique experience, I’d recommend trying out a night time star safari.

Best for: Walkers and cyclists

Must-do: Rock pooling

Where to stay: 10 Cove View

Ilfracombe is a charming seaside town surrounded by stunning scenery, which I’m sure walkers and cyclists will love exploring.

Situated on North Devon’s rugged coastline, Ilfracombe offers breathtaking views across the Atlantic, along with craggy cliffs, rock pools, and sandy inlets.

The town itself features Victorian architecture and an old-fashioned feel but with a cosmopolitan edge. It has a strong cultural pull, being home to Damien Hirst’s controversial 65ft ‘Verity’ statue.

Ilfracombe is one of the best places to visit in Devon for festival-goers, as it hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year.

These include the Grand Victorian & Steampunk Festival, the Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival, and the crazy South West Birdman.

I’d recommend carving out some time to enjoy the wide sandy beaches with hidden coves, as well as the unique Tunnels Beaches which are home to the famous Victorian bathing pools.

The area is excellent for rock pooling, having been voted 3rd best in the UK by BBC Wildlife Magazine. For something a little more relaxing, Ilfracombe is a great spot for idyllic seaside picnics.

Good to know: The area is popular with families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities on offer.

These include the award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium, the Ilfracombe Museum, Hele Corn Mill, the haunted house of Chambercombe Manor, and Larkstone Cafe and Leisure Park.

Lundy Island

Best for: Wildlife and scenery

Must-do: Rambling and wildlife spotting

Where to stay: Lundy Island self-catering properties

Owned by the National Trust, Lundy Island lies off the coast of North Devon, where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean.

It is only three miles long and half a mile wide, but believe me when I say that there’s a lot to see and do for such a small island. Popular activities include climbing, diving, fishing, rambling, rock pooling, and snorkelling.

Lundy Island is also an idyllic spot for walkers. There’s an abundance of wildlife to discover, including puffins and other unique seabirds.

The island’s wildlife and scenery are so spectacular that they are often compared to the Galapagos. If that’s not reason enough to visit then I don’t know what is! I love that a lot of effort has gone into preserving the island, so it feels very unspoilt.

This is a big part of its draw as one of the best places to visit in Devon, along with its backdrop of dramatic scenery.

Good to know: Lundy Island is accessed from Ilfracombe via ferry, which takes two hours each way. You can stay overnight in one of 23 self-catered holiday properties, where you’ll undoubtedly enjoy a very peaceful stay.

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Lynton and Lynmouth

Best for: A romantic getaway

Must-do: Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Where to stay: Seawood Hotel

Lynton and Lynmouth are twin towns connected by a funicular. Cliff Railway offers beautiful views and I consider to to be a must-see.

Known affectionately as ‘Little Switzerland’, the towns have the feel of a fairytale Swiss village . So if you can’t make it to the Alps then I think this charming pocket of North Devon is a worthy substitute!

With pretty woodland, deep gorges, and inviting walking trails, this picturesque destination is the perfect location for a romantic getaway.

Stunning scenery and wonderful wildlife mean it’s often referred to as the walking capital of Exmoor, and I can see why!

I’d recommend taking a meander around Lynmouth’s charming harbour, where boats bob up and down against a backdrop of quaint fishing cottages.

Lynmouth has a pedestrian-only high street, which helps it retain its charm and picturesque quality. While Lynton is a Victorian village that maintains an olde-worlde feel but with a modern edge.

There is a fantastic array of pubs and restaurants, from traditional Devon cream to classic fish and chips.

Good to know: If you’re visiting one of these pretty villages then you simply must visit the other while you’re in the area. Both Lynton and Lynmouth are worth exploring, being amongst the best places to visit in Devon.

Discover hotels in Lynton and Lynmouth .

Best for: Campers

Must-do: Watermouth Castle

Watermouth is a quaint hamlet that lies between Combe Martin and Ilfracombe. Another popular spot with walkers, Watermouth offers spectacular scenery.

It’s also a great place for campers, with several pretty campsites.

The area is home to Watermouth Castle, a Victorian castle that has been turned into a fun family theme park. It also houses a museum of toys and musical instruments, so I think it’s a great expedition for families.

The castle overlooks Watermouth Cove, a rocky inlet that epitomises the beauty of the North Devon coast. It’s a sheltered cove, which makes it the perfect spot for mooring boats.

Good to know: Watermouth is home to a number of rare marine species, due to it being such a sheltered and secluded harbour.

Best for: An incredible beach

Must-do: Summer beach day

Where to stay: Woolacombe Bay Hotel

Woolacombe is generally considered to be one of the best beaches in the UK, if not Europe, having won numerous awards – and I can see why.

It’s a very popular surfing destination and also an idyllic place for a spot of sunbathing in the summer.

Understandably for such a popular beach, I find that it does get very overcrowded in the summer months. But although busy, the long length of the beach allows visitors to find a quieter spot.

Woolacombe itself is a lively, laid-back village with plenty of accommodation options. A lot of the surrounding landscape is managed by the National Trust, so it remains relatively unspoilt.

Good to know: There are a wide range of facilities at the beach, with ample parking. Lifeguards allow for a safer swimming environment, which I think makes it a great destination for families. 

Best places to visit in South Devon

From the expansive moorland of Dartmoor National Park to the luxury of the English Riviera, I really love South Devon and I think it has so much to offer visitors.

Whether it’s a walking along the dramatic Jurassic Coast, or a relaxing riverside gem in a hidden pocket of this beautiful county.

If you’re planning a visit, discover the some gorgeous self-catering cottages in South Devon . Here are my favourite places to visit in South Devon:

Burgh Island

Best for: A secluded escape

Must-do: Ride the Sea Tractor

Where to stay: Burgh Island Hotel

Privately-owned Burgh Island is located just a few hundred metres from Bigbury-on-Sea on the South Devon coast.

Here you’ll discover perfect sandy beaches and an abundance of wildlife as you explore this idyllic island.

The island is home to a luxury art-deco hotel, Burgh Island Hotel , which has been graced by many famous guests. I’d definitely recommend a stay here, for a really unique experience.

One such guest was Agatha Christie and the island was the infamous setting of her novel, ‘And Then There Were None’. Burgh Island is also known for having previously been home to pirates and smugglers.

I love that it’s an inviting combination of the raw natural beauty of the surrounding scenery with the glamour and decadence of the island’s iconic hotel.

Good to know: Burgh Island is accessible via a strip of sand during low tide, while during high tide it is only reachable via a unique sea tractor – and it’s the only sea tractor in the world!

Best for: Hiking

Must-do: Visit Pennywell Farm

Where to stay:

• Tavistock House Hotel
• Gidleigh Park – A Relais & Chateaux Hotel
• Bovey Castle
• Rockmount Rooms & Apartments

Dartmoor National Park is an expansive area of mysterious moorland in South Devon, covering 368 square miles.

An enchanting area of natural beauty, it is encompassed by myths of headless horsemen and stories of beasts and ghosts.

I’m sure you’ll be aware that it’s been an inspiration to writers for centuries, most notably influencing Arthur Conan Doyle’s Hound of the Baskervilles .

I know hikers will love this area, with extensive trails and various tors to climb. There are also guided tours where you can explore ruined castles and learn more about the rich history of Dartmoor. Discover deserted medieval farmhouses and Neolithic tombs.

The park is also home to plenty of wildlife, including Dartmoor ponies and Highland cows which roam free through the wilderness.

I’d suggest taking the opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the historical towns and villages which surround the park.

Aside from hiking, other activities include climbing, bouldering, horse riding, camping, canoeing, and kayaking.

Insider travel tip: The park is best accessed by car, as public transport is limited.

Best for: Foodies

Must-do: Watersports activities

Where to stay: Provident, Maritime Suites in nearby Brixham

A pretty coastal town set on the banks of the River Dart, scenic Dartmouth boasts a rich maritime heritage.

The South Devon town features historic streets and a charming harbour, set against a backdrop of rolling hills. There are a number of quirky shops, intriguing galleries, and charming craft stalls for visitors to explore.

Dartmouth is a great destination for fresh local produce, with plenty of wonderful eateries to try. From exceptional fine dining on the waterside to traditional pubs and ice cream vendors, I consider it to be one of the best places to visit in Devon for foodies.

With a brilliant cultural edge, the town hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.

These include the Music Festival in May, Shakespeare Week in July, the Dartmouth Royal Regatta in August, and the Dartmouth Food Festival in October (not to be missed for the foodies!).

On the water, Dartmouth is a popular destination for watersports, including boat trips, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, and surfing.

Outside the town itself, I’d recommend exploring the various footpaths, where you can discover the beauty and spectacular coastal views of the surrounding countryside.

Dartmouth is a great family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities for kids in this pretty area of South Devon. These include Woodlands Theme Park, crabbing on the embankment, and a chance to unravel the history and heritage of Dartmouth Castle.

Insider travel tip: The town was famously a favourite holiday destination of Agatha Christie. You can even stay in her former holiday home, the Greenway National Trust Holiday Home .

Best for: A hidden gem

Must-do: Crabbing

Where to stay: Crooks Cottage

Considered to be one of Devon’s most beautiful villages, I think Dittisham is a bit of a hidden gem. Located in South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it sits on the west bank of the River Dart.

Dittisham is small and relatively untouched, away from the busy tourist traps of the more well-known Devon spots. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Devon for a quieter experience.

Pastel-coloured buildings and boathouses frame the pretty riverfront. I find that it has a strong community feel with a calm, laid-back atmosphere.

The village poses a welcome retreat from the chaos of modern life, and makes for the perfect relaxing riverside getaway.

Yet only a 30 minute ferry away from Dartmouth, visitors can still access a more vibrant contrast to the slower pace of Dittisham village life.

For a bite to eat on the riverfront, I’d recommend heading to the Ferryboat Inn or Anchorstone Cafe, where you’ll find delicious fresh local produce.

Dittisham is a great place to learn how to sail, as well as go kayaking or paddleboarding.

Good to know: For families, a popular activity is crabbing off the pontoon. In fact, Dittisham is considered to be one of the best places to go crabbing in Devon.

English Riviera

Best for: A touch of glamour

Must-do: Boat cruise

• Cary Arms & Spa in Torquay
• The Sandpiper Guest House in Torquay
• Mercure Paignton Hotel in Paignton
• Channel View Boutique Hotel (Adults Only) in Paignton

The English Riviera is a 22-mile stretch of coastline in South Devon. It encompasses the Torbay area and includes the towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham.

The flattering name came from Victorian times when visitors likened it favourably to the French Riviera. The area is a unique place where quaint fishing villages meet luxurious yachts.

Enjoy exceptional food and drink provisions, from traditional pubs to Michelin-starred cuisine and award-winning restaurants.

The English Riviera is one of my personal favourite places to visit in Devon, as it brings a touch of glamour while retaining its charming West Country appeal.

In terms of things to do, there are plenty of sandy beaches with beautiful water, many of which hold the Blue Flag for cleanliness.

The English Riviera is also famed for its mild climate – an unusual attribute for England and a great pull of the area.

Find some thrills with jet skiing, surfing, and sailing in Torquay. Or for some more relaxing activities, I’d suggest taking a fishing trip or a tranquil boat cruise.

The English Riviera is very popular with families, offering a number of fun and unique attractions for kids.

These include go-karting, quad bikes, and watersports for the mini adventurers. Explore the underground caves at Kents Cavern or enjoy a ride on the Babbacombe Cliff Railway.

Good to know: For a popular event, the area is home to the Agatha Christie festival, where visitors can enjoy fancy dress, guided tours, murder mysteries, and steamboats.

Best for: Devon city break

Must-do: Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery

• Southernhay House Hotel
• Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park
• Leonardo Hotel Exeter

Exeter is a small but vibrant city with a 2,000 year history that dates back to the Roman era. I love this university city where history and tradition meet the modern and contemporary.

The stunning architecture includes an imposing Roman city wall, as well as one of the UK’s most impressive Gothic cathedrals.

I’d recommend visiting the Victorian displays and exhibitions at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery.

Exeter is also home to a pretty quayside that is located next to the River Exe. For something outdoorsy, go kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding along the river.

Or, if you’d rather stay on dry land then I’d suggest going for a delightful stroll along the waterfront.

The city has a strong cultural pull, offering an independent arts scene, as well as being a destination for top music and sporting events.

As you’d expect from any UK city , there is a wide variety of eateries, from independent cafes and bars to recognisable restaurant names.

Good to know: You can explore the medieval subterranean tunnels as part of a guided tour. A fascinating experience but best avoided for the claustrophobic!

Jurassic Coast

Best for: Geological history

Must-do: Fossil hunting

• Weymouth Bay Hotel
• The Masons Arms
• Balfour Arms

The Jurassic Coast is a seriously impressive natural wonder, stretching from Exmouth in Devon to Lyme Regis in Dorset.

It brings 185 million years of geological history exposed in imposing cliffs, hidden caves, and coastal stacks.

The coast is a fantastic place for fossil hunting, which is fun for both adults and kids. Just make sure that you only collect loose fossils and never pick away at the cliffs.

The Devon Jurassic Coastline is part of the South West Coast Path, so there are countless footpaths and trails to hike.

I think that walking is the best way to experience all that this unique part of the country has to offer.

The Jurassic Coast starts in Exmouth on the South Coast of Devon. Here you can discover the rich red Triassic Rock and see the stacks at Ladram Bay.

Sidmouth is another popular Devon spot along the Jurassic Coast. Visit Sidmouth Museum, go fossil hunting on Sidmouth’s beach, or take a boat to enjoy a unique view of the area.

I’m sure that families will also love the Seaton Jurassic family visitor centre, where you can learn all about the fascinating history of the area in an interactive way.

Good to know: The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its aesthetic, historic, and educational significance. In fact, it’s the only natural World Heritage Site in England.

Discover hotels along the Jurassic Coast .

Best for: Retail therapy

Must-do: Wander The Barbican, Plymouth’s historic quarter

• Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
• The Craft House
• St Elizabeth’s House

Known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth is a port city with a strong maritime tradition and a vibrant waterfront.

Its long history stretches all the way back to the Bronze Age. Surrounded by woodland, meadows, and gardens, I think it’s an open and attractive city.

Plymouth has a strong cultural heritage, hosting a variety of events throughout the year.

These include the British Art Show, America’s Cup World Series, the Barbican Jazz and Blues Festival, and the Marine City Festival.

There are a number of landmarks and historical sites to explore in and around the city. First up, I’d suggest heading to Plymouth Hoe, a beautiful natural harbour; hrre you can climb the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse for breathtaking views.

Explore the Royal Citadel, an important coast defence site, or get a bit merry at the Plymouth Gin Distillery. Discover the cobbled streets and 16th century architecture of The Barbican, Plymouth’s historic quarter.

Or if you want to head outside of the city, there are plenty of stately homes and gardens to visit in the surrounding countryside.

For families, see the deepwater fish tanks at the National Marine Aquarium, or go for a swim at Tinside Lido. 

Good to know: The city is also home to one of the largest shopping centres in the South West, so I’d recommend it as perfect for a spot of retail therapy.

Best for: Gin and seafood

Must-do: Salcombe Gin Distillery

• Harbour Beach Club, Hotel & Spa
• Harbour Hotel Salcombe

Salcombe is a resort town with a beautiful harbour on the south coast of Devon. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it is located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

My favourite part of Salcombe is the stunning coastal views of the golden sands and bright blue waters from the town.

On dry land, I’d recommend going for a leisurely walk to Start Point Lighthouse to be rewarded with outstanding views.

I think Salcombe’s pretty scenery and vibrant town make it one of the best places to visit in Devon.

Other things to do in this South Devon town include the intriguing Overbeck’s House and Gardens. Here you’ll find impressive views, along with unique art and history exhibitions.

For all things nautical, I’d suggest paying a visit to Salcombe Maritime Museum.

Salcombe offers a wonderful selection of eateries, offering fresh seafood and local produce. You can’t leave without indulging in some decadent Salcombe Dairy ice cream, or sipping on the award-winning Salcombe gin.

If you’re a gin lover like me, then I’d definitely recommend visiting the Salcombe Gin Distillery for the full gin experience.

There are also a number of boutique shops and independent retailers to explore, along with local art galleries and quaint gift shops.

Good to know: South Sands and North Sands are the two beaches in the town itself, both of which are perfect for families. The beaches are a great destination for water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, and surfing.

Best for: Artsy types

Must-do: Cheese and wine tasting at Sharpham Vineyard

Where to stay: Kerswell Farmhouse

A charming market town on the River Dart, Totnes is also part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

I love that the town has an eccentric edge with a noticeable artistic influence and a vibrancy that distinguishes the town from its more traditional counterparts.

There are a plethora of independent shops and retailers to explore. Totnes is particularly known for its strong green credentials, and promotion of fair trade goods and ethical products.

So it’s one of the best places to visit in Devon in terms of sustainability and independent retail. It’s therefore no surprise that locally produced organic food is also a staple of the town.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with a brilliant array of eateries. From cosy cafes and pubs to contemporary restaurants and wine bars.

In terms of things to do, I’d recommend paying a visit to Totnes Castle, a classic Norman Motte and Bailey castle. Or take an idyllic steam train ride through the countryside with South Devon Railway.

For a spot of cheese and wine tasting in beautiful surroundings, I love spending the afternoon at Sharpham Vineyard.

Good to know: The popular Totnes Sunday Good Food Market is held on the third Sunday of every month and is well worth a visit. Here, you can sample and buy the fantastic local produce.

I’ve found it incredibly difficult to narrow down the best places to visit in Devon, as there is so much raw beauty to be found across the county, but these are my favourites! Let me know any of your own favourites in the comments below.

You may also like:

• UK travel guide
• Ultimate UK bucket list
• Best towns in Cornwall to visit

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

Amazing blog, I loved reading it please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.

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12 Best Things to Do in Devon

Written by Bryan Dearsley Sep 28, 2022

Sandwiched between the counties of Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset in South West England, Devon is home to some of the best things to do in the UK.

Stretching from the rugged coastline of the Bristol Channel in the north to the rolling chalk downs facing the English Channel in the south, Devon's storybook-perfect scenery is an ideal backdrop for all kinds of experiences. While sun worshippers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts can indulge their passions on Devon's superb beaches , hikers and bikers can enjoy no end of adventures exploring the county's Jurassic Coast , famous for its ancient fossil-rich cliffs and stunning scenery.

Devon is also popular for its countless quaint country villages and bustling old market towns. Many of these remain unchanged since their cobbled streets and narrow laneways were built many hundreds of years ago.

Those seeking cultural activities and big-city adventures are also spoiled for choice. The county town of Exeter offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities, with its world-class museums and many fine examples of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian architecture.

To learn more about these and the many other great reasons to visit South West England, be sure to read through our list of the top things to do in Devon.

1. Take a Tour of Exeter Cathedral

2. it's a small world at babbacombe model village, torquay, 3. hike and bike the tarka trail, barnstable, 4. explore devon's jurassic coast, 5. visit historic exeter quayside, 6. the english riviera: torquay harbour and marina, 7. visit plymouth hoe, 8. royal albert memorial museum, exeter, 9. take the kids to paignton zoo environmental park, 10. soak up the sun on the best devon beaches, 11. spend the day in sidmouth, 12. get cultured at the box-plymouth, map of things to do in devon.

Built in 1133 and featuring a design that's unique among England's many such churches, Exeter Cathedral (the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter in Exeter) has been much transformed over the centuries.

Its present ornate façade on its west entrance was added in the 1300s, while features like its magnificent astronomical clock were added during a period of renovation and expansion in the 1400s.

One of the top places to visit in Exeter , the cathedral is best viewed as part of a guided tour. Highlights include learning about the cathedral's huge stone vaulted ceiling, the largest such medieval structure in Europe; the magnificent library, complete with manuscripts predating the cathedral; and enjoying stunning city views from the roof. Those who prefer to go it alone can pick up a handy audio tour from the ticket office.

Even if you don't opt for a visit to the cathedral's exquisites interior, allocate a little time to explore the area around it. Highlights include the Cathedral Green , a lovely park-like setting popular with students, locals, and visitors to relax on; the historic shops and townhomes along Cathedral Close; and the intricate archway leading into Exeter Cathedral Courtyard.

Address: 1 The Cloisters, Exeter, Devon

Official site: www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk

Located in the coastal resort town of Torquay, Babbacombe Model Village is as much fun to visit for adults as it is for kids. In a charming four-acre park-like setting, this must-see attraction has been welcoming visitors since 1963 with its large collection of scale model buildings and extensive model railway layout.

Part of the fun here is seeing how many of the attraction's mini-buildings you recognize, with notable examples being replicas of Stonehenge and London landmarks like The Shard. Also fun is spending time investigating the village's population of tiny model people going about their business.

In addition to special late night illumination openings, visitors can also pop in for a coffee and snack, a round of mini golf, or a little souvenir shopping.

Be sure to spend time exploring the other top things to do in Torquay , too, including its many beaches and attractive harbor area.

Address: Hampton Avenue, Babbacombe, Torquay, Devon

Official site: www.model-village.co.uk

Based on the route taken by the fictional otter made famous by a bestselling 1920s novel, Devon's Tarka Trail is one of the county's most popular scenic trails.

Extending for 180 miles across North Devon, this figure-of-eight route begins and ends in the river port town of Barnstaple and can either be tackled in its entirety over a few days or broken down into hike-size sections based upon your interests.

In addition to a lovely section that covers the coast between Barnstaple and Lynton , taking in Woolacombe and Ilfracombe along the way, part of the trail crosses into some of the county's most dramatic landscapes in Exmoor and Dartmoor. Both are well worth exploring.

Cyclists can also take advantage of the Tarka Trail with an extended section in Braunton that follows a disused railway line.

Speaking of railways, you can also enjoy some of the same wonderful scenery aboard the popular Tarka Line train with frequent departures from Barnstaple.

The section of the South Devon coast between the town of Exmouth and Seaton, part of the popular Jurassic Coast UNESCO World heritage Site, is well worth exploring. This unique section of England's southern coast features a unique diversity of features that were formed millions of years ago when dinosaurs still roamed the area.

The area is well-known for its many fossil deposits, with fun things to do for all ages, including fossil hunting on its beaches and cliffside walks.

Much of the coast is accessible through well-marked hiking trails , including an easy section, the Exmouth and Orcombe Point Walk, that connects with the much longer South West Coast Path for those wanting to explore even more of this spectacular area of outstanding natural beauty.

Official site: https://jurassiccoast.org

Read More: Best Things to Do in Exmouth, Devon

A short walk from the city's cathedral, Exeter Quayside is something of a surprise for many first-time visitors. Located some distance inland from the sea, the area was built up around the River Exe in the 16th century after the opening of a canal that connected the city to the Exe Estuary and, ultimately, the sea.

The quays flourished for centuries until the development of larger vessels too big to navigate the canal saw it decline in importance. Fortunately, many of the original warehouses and storage buildings survived, the oldest being the 17th-century Custom House, which now houses the city's visitor center.

After exploring the dining cafés and shops, follow the water through the riverside park to the Medieval Exe Bridge . Constructed in the early 13th century, this remarkable structure stretches over 590 feet in length with eight of its original arches still intact.

Address: The Quay, Exeter, Devon

Official site: www.exeterquayside.co.uk

Dubbed the "English Riviera" by famed crime writer Agatha Christie , who compared the area to the popular region of Southern France, Torquay remains one of the best places to visit in Devon for those seeking a fun seaside vacation. While part of the author's enthusiasm was the result of the town's comparatively mild climate, it's also rooted in the attractiveness of its charming harbor area.

Torquay Harbour and Marina are fun to explore at any time of year, and pretty much any time of day. During the daylight hours, tourists wander the shops and attractions lining the harbor, many of them pulling up chairs at a harborside café while watching the fishing boats and pleasure craft come and go.

Come night time, Torquay Harbour is lit up to great effect, with the same restaurants now catering to an evening crowd here to dine alfresco on the fresh catch of the day.

Address: Beacon Quay, Torquay, Devon

Official site: www.tor-bay-harbour.co.uk/our-harbours/torquay/

One of Britain's oldest and most important naval ports, Plymouth is well worth including on your Devon travel itinerary.

Start your exploration at Plymouth Hoe, the focal point for many of Plymouth's cultural activities and attractions . Established as a public park in the early 1800s, this large green space can take some time to explore in its entirety, so allow plenty of time to do so – and wear comfortable walking shoes.

While the views from the top of Plymouth Hoe looking out over the city and Plymouth Sound are pleasant enough from the benches lining the hilltop, save a little energy to climb the 93 steps to the top of the 72-foot-tall Smeaton's Tower . The views from this old lighthouse are simply breathtaking, as is the climb. Fortunately, interesting exhibits and displays relating to the history of the tower and Plymouth Hoe provide an excellent excuse for a rest.

Location: Hoe Park, Plymouth, Devon

If you're planning on spending a day (preferably more) exploring Exeter, you'll want to include the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) on your list of attractions to visit.

Highlights of a visit to this world-class museum, founded in 1868, and its over one million artifacts include numerous paintings from local and internationally renowned artists, with examples from its permanent collection and temporary exhibits always on display.

Of special mention are its displays relating to Devon's unique geology, along with a large display of fossils found along the Jurassic Coast. A great little café and a souvenir shop are located on-site.

Address: Queen Street, Exeter, Devon

Official site: https://rammuseum.org.uk

A short drive from Torquay, Paignton Zoo Environmental Park offers a great day out for families. Highlights include touring the animal enclosures of the zoo's over 2,000 creatures (or as many as you can see in a few hours), as well as exploring the lovely grounds of this 80-acre attraction.

Among the stars at the zoo are a group of bachelor lowland gorillas, giraffes, Sumatran tigers, and zebras. On-site facilities include snack and beverage kiosks, along with a full-service restaurant, as well as a souvenir shop.

Address: Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon

Official site: www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

Boasting not just one but two lovely coastlines, it's little wonder that Devon is home to some of the best beaches in England .

Among the most popular in North Devon are Tunnel Beach, a unique privately owned beach experience that's been a must-do since Victorian times. Highlights include a large tidal pool that hangs onto fresh seawater long after the tide has gone out.

Woolacombe Beach is another popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers on the North Devon coast.

The beaches of the English Riviera, better known as the Torbay area, are definitely worth visiting. Among the best beaches in Torquay are Torre Abbey Sands, the town's Blue-Flag-awarded main beach known for its unique red sand.

A little farther east, the beaches of Exmouth also should be included on your list of Devon beaches to explore. The beach at Bigbury-on-Sea , the largest stretch of sand in Devon, is also worthy of a visit.

Seeking a truly authentic, small seaside town vacation experience? Then the attractive and unspoiled coastal town of Sidmouth could be just the ticket. A short drive east of Exmouth, Sidmouth has been a popular seaside resort since the advent of the railroad and offers a distinct taste of coastal living as it once was.

Sidmouth Beach is the big draw. Set between the attractive Connaught Gardens and the mouth of the River Sid, this part-sand, part-pebble beach feels safe and secluded thanks to the red cliffs that provide shelter from wind and waves. Popular activities, besides swimming and sunbathing, include water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

As well as the must-explore Connaught Gardens, the extensive promenade is fun to stroll.

Devon's newest attraction, The Box, is also one of the most interesting. Set in the naval city of Plymouth, The Box – so named for its stunning modern architecture – is a hip mix of historical archive, museum, and art gallery that takes museum design and appeal to a whole other level.

Highlights include displays of specimens from The Box's natural history collection, including a replica woolly mammoth, numerous artworks, as well as displays showing key moments from Plymouth's rich social history. A gift shop and a restaurant are located on the premisses

Address: Tavistock Place, Plymouth, Devon

Official site: www.theboxplymouth.com

More on England

Top 22 Enchanting Spots to Explore in Devon

I love that this gorgeous county offers a huge variety of scenery, including mysterious moors, storybook harbour villages, sandy beaches backed by towering cliffs, upscale yachting havens, affluent seaside resort towns, miles of meadows crisscrossed with winding lanes and pretty thatched cottages.

From my many visits, here are the places I most want to share with you…

1. Dartmouth

If you want to experience a real nautical lifestyle, you won’t go wrong with pretty Dartmouth! 

Located at the mouth of the River Dart (the clue is in the name), this charming town is rich in more ways than one. Culturally, it is one of England’s iconic ports, with all the trimmings.

The infrastructure is such that you will see little fishing boats rubbing shoulders with the odd superyacht. If you want to head inland, you’ll find countless indie shops, pastel-coloured houses, and perhaps a cafe to rest your weary feet.

2. Torquay 

Say to someone that you’ve been to Devon; chances are you’ll be asked, ‘Torquay?’ The place is strongly associated with all things Devon.

Torquay occupies a niche between ‘typical British seaside’ and something ever so slightly classy. You’ll find a genteel Victorian undercurrent running alongside a bit of typical fishing town character.

There’s a pier to walk along and a popular sandy beach with sticks of rock and food kiosks. If you like Poirot or Ms Marple, you’re lucky.

Author Agatha Christie was born nearby, and if you’re a fan, I highly suggest going on the ‘Agatha Christie mile walk,’ which takes in the same sights that influenced her. Make sure you count the blue plaques as you go! 

3. Beer and Lyme Bay

Beer is a gorgeous seaside town; white houses sit alongside little fishermen’s cottages constructed from local stone and flint.

If angling is your thing, the town is famous for its mackerel fishing. If you prefer your catch to come to you, plenty of restaurants serve the finest fruits of the sea.

Lyme Bay is part of the Jurassic coast and a UNESCO World Heritage site, so head down to the beach and admire the red layers of sandstone rocks and cliffs crafted by millions of years of geological activity. Maybe you’ll find a fossil or two! 

4. Dartmoor

Dartmoor is not just a windswept tundra of heather, oh no!

It’s also very interesting, truly! Whether you want to have a wander or love discovering remnants of Iron Age villages, you can easily spend a day here.

Druid monuments and obelisks are dotted around (think Stonehenge but smaller). Regardless of the time of year, Dartmoor occupies a vast space, so it is never busy. Look no further than this extraordinary spot for peace, tranquillity, and solitude!

A video of our visit to beautiful Dartmoor with drone footage… 

5. Clovelly

See? Lovely… But make sure you take some sturdy footwear, as the village is on a mega-stiff hill.

Once you’ve regained your breath, admire the multicoloured cottages sandwiching the main road leading up from the harbour. Feel free to stop at numerous halfway houses for a traditional Devon tea.

If you are already at the harbour, why not fortify yourself for the walk back up at one of three quayside pubs?

6. Bantham Beach 

Clean as a whistle, Bantham Beach is a great day out. With gentle tides, expanses of flat, rippling sand, and warm, shallow water, Bantham is a great choice. 

As a fairly large beach, it should provide all the space you need. It’s also dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friends.

7. Salcombe

Coastal views, rolling greenery, and a beautiful estuary make Salcombe simply lovely. The water is relatively shallow and calm, and the estuary and sandy beach look more like something you would see in the Mediterranean than in the UK.

Have fun playing in the water, visit one of several mariners’ pubs or indulge your taste buds in an alfresco restaurant whilst taking in views of the sea and surrounding area.

8. Lynmouth Harbour and Lynton

Lynton is often lovingly called ‘Little Switzerland’; whilst you won’t find mountains, you will find a whopping great hill on which the town sits.

Fortunately, if you cannot hike down to Lynmouth Harbour, an iconic and famous cliff railway will ferry you down (and, more importantly, back up).

The nearby beach isn’t particularly bather-friendly, but with walks and views to die for, located above the town, it would probably be time wasted when you could enjoy much more active pursuits.

The town has many excellent restaurants, which is only a good thing as if you have conquered the hill, you’ll be starving.

9. Combesgate Beach and Woolacombe

Combesgate Beach has rock pools—and lots of them! Its topography is especially suited to displaying treasures of the deep, especially at low tide. Have a competition to see who can see the starfish or chase each other with bits of seaweed.

A bit further down, Woolacombe has an award-winning beach with three miles of golden flat sand. Certain Tide states provide an excellent venue to wet your board if you like a bit of surf.

10. Blackpool Sands

Blackpool Sands is a bit unique because it is privately owned and managed. Given the correct weather conditions, it looks like something you might find in the Caribbean.

You can have all the convenience and fun without the hassle of flying. If you don’t like sand, you are in luck, as the beach is covered in fine shale.

It isn’t the biggest beach, but as a result, it tends not to get too busy as tourists head to the more well-known areas, with quiet coves at either end it offers a much more sedate experience for a day out.

11. Appledore

Aside from aesthetics, Appledore has quite a bit going on. For centuries, its main export was the building of ships, and its effects are still visible today (boats are still built there to this day).

If you want to remain all nautical, there is a prominent yacht club, so why not put on your Sunday best and go for one or two afternoon ‘refreshments.’

If you like exploring, then definitely visit Appledore. A labyrinth of cobbled streets gives way to courtyards, whitewashed houses, and hanging baskets. Explore handmade jewellery and craft stores, or relax whilst sampling some freshly caught catch of the day in one of the local restaurants.

12. Slapton Sands and Torcross

Slapton Sands isn’t just a beach (and it’s pebbly—talk about false advertising). It also has a few extra features that make it worth visiting.

While you can sunbathe and swim in relative comfort, you can also go a bit ‘natural’ (no, not in ‘that’ way). The nearby nature reserve has several rare birds and odd wildflowers.

If you like your military history, Slapton sands were used to practice the Normandy landings with catastrophic consequences.

Head south, and you’ll find the tiny village of Torcross, located on a thin peninsula between the beach and a freshwater lake. It makes the ideal place to stay if you want to explore the surrounding area.

A Mecca for UK surfers, Croyde mixes a bit of the old with a bit of the new. Thatched country pubs serving roast dinners during the day give way to local bands and a younger ‘cooler’ crowd in the evening.

When the sun is out, expect it to get busy with camper vans and everyone arriving to see what the fuss is about.

Whilst it has been criticised in recent years for turning a bit more commercial, if you time your visit right, you can still experience a hint of the wild charm that once enticed people to this wide and expansive beach.

14. Brixham

Located in the heart of the English Riviera, Brixham is a must-see! Its exquisite harbour is complete with fishing boats and, fortunately for you, day charters, so you can see the surrounding coast whilst catching the sun (or, if you are like me, burning your nose).

Brixham, in particular, has an affinity with pirates, so if you want an organized tour, head down to the heritage museum. If you want to create your own adventure, pop down to the nearby beach and see if you can find a smuggler’s cove.

If it’s a rainy day, the harbour is home to a full-size replica of the Golden Hind , the famous vessel that was used extensively by Sir Francis Drake.

15. Bigbury-on-Sea

You’ll find a broader area on the opposite side of Bantham Beach. This is Bigbury on Sea. The water around the beach is shallow, so it’s good for paddling. Behind the beach are a series of eateries and cafes offering various fare.

We recommend the surf and turf, which have likely been caught locally (well, the surf bit, anyway; we’re not sure about the turf).

16. Saunton Sands 

Play hide-and-seek amongst the dunes before sprinting into the sea to cool down. If you are not feeling that energetic, there are plenty of facilities to make your day at the beach your own.

Hire a deckchair (knotted hanky on the head optional), sit in a beach hut, or try your hand at surfing…You don’t need to bring it aboard, as several kiosks along the beach will happily rent one. 

17. Ilfracombe

For an all-inclusive seaside break, look no further. Looking northwards, you might spot Wales on a clear day. The town of Ilfracombe sits on a bit of a peninsula, so regardless of which way you walk, you’ll probably end up at the sea.

Victoriana is rife in this town with promenades, adorable manicured gardens, and maybe even the odd iron-railed arcade.

Visit the tunnelled beach and glimpse history as you see a Victorian solution to keeping boys and girls properly separated on their jollies.

If you want to go back in time, Watermouth Castle is worth visiting. Watch knights fight in re-enactments or stroll down the hill to the picturesque Watermouth Cove.

18. Burgh Island

Burgh Island sits sandwiched between Bigbury-on-Sea and Bantham Beach. If you are at Bantham, it’s well worth taking the ‘sea tractor’ over to the island (depending on the time and weather).

Think of a bus on stilts; you’ll have the general gist as you splash your way through the waves to arrive on an island housing a hotel, a small cafe, and a pub.

You can walk around the island, but there are private areas, so watch your step. For a full day, start with a lazy morning on Bantham Beach, head over to Burgh Island, enjoy lunch, and then recline into a sedentary position while topping up your tan at Bigbury on Sea.

19. Exeter 

Exeter is a small city that feels much larger. For the better part of 600 years, it has been at the heart of British naval dominance.

Within its walls, you will find magnificent Georgian, Victorian (and even Elizabethan) architecture. Splendid parks are dotted throughout the city, which aren’t spoiled by the usual high street fare.

There are numerous hotels, guest rooms, and other options, so if you are looking for a base to start your Devonshire exploration, here is as good an option as any.

Even if you aren’t staying, there’s a fair bit to see (more than a day’s worth). Head to the cathedral, go to the quayside or watch a show at the theatre.

20. Sidmouth

Sidmouth shares many features (and a coastline) with Branscombe and Beer. If you are inclined, you can walk the famous South West Coast path to reach either.

If you like noisy things with big ears and soft noses, there’s a Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth with 500 rescue donkeys.

If you want to get out of town, coastal walks will take you above the town, affording magnificent views of the red sandstone cliffs, the lovely mix of sand and shingle beach, and the sparkly blue water.

21. Dittisham 

Close your eyes and imagine a village bathed in golden sunlight, bells ringing in the background, and boats bobbing and swaying rhythmically along a wide riverbank. Got it? That’s good, as I’m describing Dittisham.

This sleepy village is located on the estuarial banks of the River Dart. If you are here for a few days, I would recommend visiting the former home of Agatha Christie at Greenway, looking around the house, or stopping for an afternoon tea in the gardens.

There are plenty of sweet little holiday cottages in Dittisham, and due to its proximity to several other attractions, it makes a great base for those who like a bit of peace.

22. Shaldon

Shaldon is a pleasantly old-fashioned village occupying a prominent spot on the mouth of the River Teign. It’s a bit quieter than some of our other suggestions, so prepare to relax.

It boasts authenticity as an example of a working coastal town and still partly relies on the fishing industry to ensure its survival.

If you want a bit of excitement on your journey down to the sand, head to Teignmouth Beach, which is accessed by a genuine smuggler’s tunnel! 

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Must-see attractions in Devon & Cornwall

Eden Project

South Cornwall

Looking like a cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain's lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project have…

East Cornwall

This magnificent manor, 2.5 miles southeast of Bodmin, offers a fascinating insight into Upstairs, Downstairs life in Victorian England. The house was…

St Michael's Mount

West Cornwall

Looming up in the middle of Mount's Bay and connected to the mainland at Marazion via a cobbled causeway, this abbey-crowned island is an unforgettable…

Tresco Abbey Garden

Isles of Scilly

Tresco's key attraction – and one of Scilly's must-see gems – is this subtropical estate, laid out in 1834 on the site of a 12th-century Benedictine…

Tate St Ives

After an 18-month, multimillion-pound refit, St Ives' most illustrious gallery reopened its doors, complete with a monumental exhibition space that's been…

Kynance Cove

A mile north of Lizard Point, this National Trust–owned inlet is an absolute showstopper, studded with craggy offshore islands rising out of searingly…

Exeter Cathedral

Magnificent in warm, honey-coloured stone, Exeter's cathedral is one of Devon’s most impressive ecclesiastical sights. Dating largely from the 12th and…

Tintagel Castle

The Atlantic Highway

Famous as the supposed birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel's epic clifftop castle has been occupied since Roman times and once served as a residence for…

South Devon

High on Devon’s must-see list, the captivating summer home of crime writer Agatha Christie sits beside the placid River Dart. Part-guided tours allow you…

This wonderful medieval house and garden was the family seat of the Godolphin family who, during the 17th and 18th centuries, were one of Cornwall's great…

Lost Gardens of Heligan

This is Cornwall's real-life secret garden. Formerly the family estate of the Tremaynes, Heligan's magnificent 19th-century gardens fell into disrepair…

Clovelly Historic Village

North Devon

Clovelly is privately owned, and admission is charged at the hilltop visitor centre. The village's cobbled streets are so steep that cars can't cope, so…

Grandly located at the head of the Fal estuary, 4 miles south of Truro, Trelissick is one of Cornwall's most beautiful aristocratic estates, with a formal…

Arlington Court

The honey-grey Regency manor house of Arlington Court exudes charm, from the model ships and shells collected by the owners, to the produce-packed walled…

A fixture on the city's cultural scene since Victorian times, this hulking red-brick museum recently received a £24 million revamp. It's a treasure trove…

RHS Rosemoor

Run by the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Rosemoor is a must-see source of green-fingered inspiration. One of only four RHS gardens open…

National Marine Aquarium

The UK's biggest – and perhaps best – aquarium is lodged beside the Barbican harbour. There's a huge amount to see, but the highlight is the impressive…

Chapel Porth

North Cornwall

Two miles from St Agnes is one of Cornwall's most beautiful coves, Chapel Porth, a wild, rocky beach framed by steep, gorse-covered cliffs, owned by the…

Broomhill Sculpture Gardens

It's a magical effect: 300 often quirky sculptures hidden away in a 4-hectare wooded valley. There's a fairy-tale or comic feel to much of it – slivers of…

Plymouth Fish Market

Around 60,000 tonnes of fish pass through this market, making it the second biggest by volume in England after London's Billingsgate. It's an amazing…

Bryher is fringed by fabulous beaches, but Rushy Bay is the largest – and many would say the loveliest. South-facing and sheltered by the hummock of Watch…

Gwithian & Godrevy Towans

These wonderful side-by-side beaches join up at low tide to form one epic stretch of golden, flat sand. At the eastern end is the small, National Trust…

St Nectan's Glen

Hidden away in a secret valley, this little glen feels like something from a fairy tale. Fringed by climbing ivy and shrubs, a 60ft waterfall tumbles…

At the head of the Tamar Valley sits the Tudor manor of Cotehele, one of the Edgcumbe dynasty's modest country retreats. The cavernous great hall is the…

A great bulk of rock topped by a picturesque clifftop chapel, Rame Head is another of Cornwall's most majestic coastal viewpoints, with a jaw-dropping 360…

Clinging to the cliffs near Levant, this dramatic complex of mine-workings is one of the most atmospheric sights from Cornwall's industrial past. The main…

St Mawes Castle

Strategically sited to command an uninterrupted field of fire over the entrance to Falmouth Bay in tandem with Pendennis Castle, on the opposite side of…

Whitsand Bay

Small coves dot the coastline of the Rame Peninsula, but for a proper stretch of sand, this huge – and undervisited – bay is the place. Pronounced…

Towering on the skyline between Camborne and Redruth and visible for miles around, this craggy hilltop is one of Cornwall's most iconic natural features…

Potager Garden

It's a bit of a drive from Falmouth but this gorgeous kitchen garden near Constantine is well worth the detour. Rescued from dilapidation by its current…

Beer Quarry Caves

Beer's creamy chalk cliffs hint at the presence of a seam of high-quality masonry material called Beer stone. It's been used in countless famous buildings…

Garden House

Dartmoor National Park

The enchanting blend of landscapes here make this garden one of the best in Devon. Its 3 hectares encompass wildflower meadows and South African planting,…

Start Point Lighthouse

Sitting on one of England's most exposed peninsulas, the 815,000 candela beam of this bright-white lighthouse can be seen for 25 nautical miles. Tours (on…

Paignton Zoo

This innovative, 32-hectare zoo is by far and away Paignton's top draw. Spacious enclosures recreate habitats from savannah and wetland to tropical forest…

Trevibban Mill

This young vineyard has a fast-growing reputation in the wine world, and it's a fine place to sample vintages in a dreamy Cornish setting. In total there…

Leach Pottery

While other St Ives artists broke new ground in sculpture and abstract art, potter Bernard Leach was hard at work reinventing British ceramics in his…

Tamar Otter Wildlife Centre

Generally, you'll need the skills of Ray Mears to spot otters in the wild, but this wildlife centre 5 miles outside Launceston guarantees a sighting…

Camel Valley Vineyard

Cornwall might not seem an obvious place for winemaking, but father-and-son team Bob and Sam Lindo have been producing award-winning vintages at this…

Penwith's moors would have been littered with Iron Age settlements 2000 years ago. Most have vanished, but a few remain – and Chysauster is the best…

Coleton Fishacre

For an evocative glimpse of jazz-age glamour, drop by the former home of the D'Oyly Carte family of theatre impresarios. Built in the 1920s, its faultless…

More destinations you need to see

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Devon Road Trip itinerary- 19 Beautiful places to Visit

Planning a Devon road trip? Wondering which part of Devon is best or where the best places to visit for a fun day out are? Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip!

We love Devon. I spent a great time here as part of my Navy training and my parents have lived in the county for 15+ years.

We regularly bring our motorhome to the area and enjoy exploring- there’s always somewhere new to find and explore.

I know many people rush through Devon on their way to Cornwall, but there’s a huge number of stunning places to explore here- and it’s often much less crowded than Cornwall (although does get very busy in summer!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Devon Road Trip- how to plan

When you’re planning a road trip around Devon, the first thing to decide is how long you have.

If you only have a weekend or a few days to visit, pick one area in either North or South Devon and enjoy it. If you have a week or longer, you could probably do a few days in each, or explore one half in more detail. There are plenty of fantastic campsites in Devon to enjoy.

Both North and South Devon have incredible sandy beaches with turquoise waters and plenty of coves and things to see. There are also ice cream stalls, fish and chips and cream teas to be consumed everywhere. (On that note- Devonions have their cream first, then the jam… but you do it however you like!)

For the best surfing beaches, head to the north coast. If you want to hike, head to Dartmoor or Exmoor. For cute towns/ villages with good shops, my personal favourites are on the south coast. If you want nightlife, both Exeter and Plymouth are great nights out (not that I remember too much of them… ?) but you’ll find live music, good local beer/ ales and decent hospitality in many pubs around the county, especially on a Friday/ Saturday night.

So it’s really up to you where you want to go. The point of this post is to share some of our favourite places to visit in Devon, both for fun days out as part of your road trip, and also great campsites and places to stay with your motorhome, campervan, caravan or even tent!

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

Roads in Devon

Word of caution- the roads in Devon (and Cornwall!) will probably be slower than you’re used to. The only motorway is the M5, which ends near Exeter, and then there are only a couple of decent dual-carriageways where you can build up speed.

All this means you will be travelling a LOT slower than you might otherwise expect, and the roads are often small and windy, meaning you won’t go as far as you might think you can. 50 miles is likely to take a couple of hours- on a good day.

Oh, and do not travel ANYWHERE on the first day of the school holidays, the last day or any bank holiday- unless you’re willing to get up in the middle of the night. Seriously, the roads can be chaotic and the traffic jams are legendary. It’s not a great start or end to your Devon road trip to get caught in those. If you’re going on to road trip around Dorset and Hampshire , be sure to leave plenty of travel time.

Planning a road trip? These posts might help:

• How to plan a UK road trip
• Unmissable road trip ideas for England
• Best UK road trip itineraries

Devon Road Trip with a motorhome

If you’re exploring Devon by motorhome, you’ll be pleased to know that most places are fine to access with a larger vehicle. I always suggest getting a proper motorhome sat-nav , so you can avoid low bridges, but on the whole you should be fine.

There are plenty of campsites and places to discover- we suggest joining a motorhome club so you can get the best deals (and early booking in school holidays!)

If you’ve done several UK motorhome holidays , you’ll be pleased to know that Devon is quite welcoming to motorhomes and campervans, but there are strict restrictions on motorhome wild camping , especially on the moors and on the seafronts. Pay attention to the signs and use a campsite if you’re in doubt.

Devon Road Trip itinerary ideas

To give you some help planning your itinerary, here are a couple of ideas for you:

Weekend in Devon ideas

• Weekend in North Devon: Enjoy the beaches of Croyde and Saunton Sands
• South Devon Weekend itinerary ideas: explore the area of Dartmouth, Salcombe and Brixham
• If you enjoy hiking, plan a weekend on Dartmoor and see how many tors you can cross off the list.
• For golf, there are a huge range of courses to enjoy (just ask my Dad- he’s always off exploring one or another of them!!)

Week or longer itinerary ideas for Devon Road Trips

If you have longer, then you can either try and see a bit of both North and South Devon, or stay in one area and explore it in more detail. I would never suggest trying to combine a Devon road trip with a Cornwall road trip in just one week- there’s too much to see.

We’ll break down some of our favourite places to visit below.

North Devon Road Trip ideas

So, let’s start at the top. North Devon is an unexpected treat. There are some wonderful bays and beaches to explore, as well as cute harbours. This is the side which has the best waves- perfect for surfing and confident swimmers, but weak swimmers or children might prefer the generally gentler beaches on the south coast.

In no particular order, here are some of our favourite places to visit in North Devon:

Westward Ho!

I’ll just start with the obvious- yes, the exclamation mark is part of the name.

Westward Ho! is one of our favourite Devon beaches and is where we tried to learn to surf. Twice. (Still not any good at it, but we keep trying!)

The beach is sandy and there is plenty to do in the area. There are toilets, cafes, restaurants and arcades all along the beachfront, and it’s a fun day out for all the family.

There is plenty of parking for Westward Ho! We’ve visited with both a motorhome and a car. Motorhome parking is day only in the town, but there are a couple of spots away from the town where you can stay overnight out of season- have a look on Park4night.

Clovelly is one of the most picturesque villages and harbours I’ve ever seen. We stayed here for a few nights with our boat and it was magical.

The village is on a STEEP hill and has stunning views over the Bristol Channel. The main street is cobbled, flanked by the cutest 16th whitewashed cottages and is usually full of tourists and donkeys giving rides up and down. (Warning: It’s something like a 400ft drop very quickly and there’s no easy way for anyone with reduced mobility to get down.)

The village has an incredible connection with the arts: Charles Kingsley lived here, Charles Dickens wrote about it and William Turner painted it.

There is day parking for cars and motorhomes at the top of the hill.

Saunton Sands

Saunton Sands is another stunning bay on the north coast of Devon. It’s a long sandy beach with the UNESCO protected Braunton Burrows (sand dunes) at its back. This is a popular beach with beginner surfers and families due to the more protected waters- it’s easier to surf and swim here than at nearby Croyde, which is more exposed.

For music fans, Robbie Williams filmed his video for ‘Angels’ here… if that makes any difference at all to your Devon road trip itinerary! Far more importantly, it’s also the beach I visit regularly when we’ve got Fish and Chips from Squires in Braunton- DEFINITELY worth the trip.

You can park your motorhome or camper in the car park for the day, but not overnight. There are a couple of great campsites and some of the best airBnBs in Devon nearby, within walking distance to the beach, which are well worth booking.

Appledore is a small fishing village on the North Devon coastline, right where the Taw and Torridge rivers meet before flowing into the sea.

Despite its size, Appledore used to be an important shipbuilding centre and is now home to the North Devon Maritime Museum- well worth a visit. The quay is full of fishing boats, plus private yachts and pleasure cruises- if you visit on a sunny calm day, we highly recommend a boat tour- it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the coast.

In peak season, you can also take a small ferry to Instow, just down the coast, which has a lovely sandy beach, pier and a yacht club!

The town is popular with artists of all types, and regularly hosts arts and crafts festivals. There are also plenty of local shops and boutiques selling unique art.

For motorhome and campervan owners, there is parking right on the seafront. You used to be able to stay overnight, but I believe that has been changed to day parking only now.

Croyde is just around the corner from Saunton Sands (you can see Saunton in the background in the photo above.)

The village is nice enough, but the real draw is the bay and Baggy Point, a National Trust place within the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The surf here is likely to be bigger than Saunton (something to do with the coastline), but if you don’t want to surf or play on the beach, there’s plenty to do.

You can hike to Crow Point, where you’ll be able to see across the estuary to Appledore and Instow. Or walk the spectacular cliff path to Baggy Point (about a 3mile round trip and takes about 2 hours). The seaviews and wildlife are well worth the effort- so is the ice cream at the end.

You can also go coasteering here- PLEASE book onto a proper tour and don’t try and do it on your own. People die every year making that mistake.

For a good night out, visit The Thatch pub- famous in Devon for a good night out. There’s usually live music or an open mic night on a weekend and they’re famous for their delicious nachos.

Woolacombe Bay

Just to complete this stretch of coastline, Woolacombe Bay is a wonderful place to visit in Devon for a fun day out or a weekend.

The surf here is magic and there’s plenty of facilities nearby- including some campsites if you’re staying in the area. The beach is sandy and perfect for kids- but it gets CRAZY crowded in high summer, so arrive early to grab a spot.

Explored by Chris from A Brit & A Southerner

Ilfracombe is a stereotypical holiday resort that is definitely worth visiting during your next Devon road trip. From traditional Devonshire Cream Teas to day trips with local fishermen, Ilfracombe offers everything there is to love about Devon. The rugged cliffs along the Atlantic coast form a beautiful backdrop and, along with the myriad of rock pools and sandy inlets, creates a picture-perfect scene that is appealing for locals and visitors alike.

When it comes to the best things to do in Ilfracombe, you can certainly spend a couple of days experiencing the attractions here. Take a stroll along the South-West coastal path to admire the breathtaking views across the Atlantic, before heading inland to appreciate the rich history and heritage of Ilfracombe Harbour that is an active fishing area and where you can hop on a vessel to take a day trip to nearby Lundy Island.

From Ilfracombe Harbour, take the short stroll up “Lantern Hill” to visit the iconic Chapel of St. Nicholas which has been attracting local worshippers since the 14th century. After all this adventure, check out the collection of local cafes and restaurants to indulge in a cream tea and there is no better spot than “The Naked Cake” which offers decadent cuisine along with friendly service.

As well as the town itself, be sure to explore the many bays and coves around the nearby coast- there are plenty to discover.

Explored by Heather from Conversant Traveller

Exmoor National Park is one of the wildest places to visit in Devon, with miles of open moorland countryside, gently rolling hills and rocky outcrops. It was once a royal forest and hunting ground, and today is one of the most popular areas to explore in the county.

Some of the  best things to do in Exmoor  include:

• Visiting the picturesque coastal settlements of Lynton and Lynmouth to ride the cliffside funicular railway which is powered by water, and enjoying some of the best fish and chips in the area.
• Heading to Watersmeet for a dramatic gorge walk and a slab of cake at the National Trust tea shop beside the river.
• Hiking the Valley of Rocks – a craggy hillside where adventurous hikers who fancy a bit of a scramble are rewarded with sweeping sea views.
• For something a little gentler, check out the traditional village of Selworthy which boasts timeless thatched cottages on a rural estate, and a delightful little tea shop which is perfect for a spot of lunch.
• For watersports (and great dog walks!), head to Wimbleball Lake
• seeing the famous ponies galloping across the gorse dotted moorland
• walking along gently meandering riverside pathways in hidden valleys.

There’s plenty to do around Exmoor. You could spend a couple of days on your Devon Road Trip exploring the area. There are plenty of great campsites- wild camping with a motorhome is tough on Exmoor; please do obey the restrictions and stay in appropriate places.

Dulverton & Tarr Steps

Dulverton is a small town right on the edge of Exmoor. There are loads of independant shops and one of the best tea rooms in the area- the Copper Kettle. My Dad, who was bought up in a bakers and is a scone connoisseur, says their scones are some of the best in the county (trust me, he’s tried most of them!) There are also some award-winning restaurants and a couple of great pubs.

Dulverton is also really close to the famous Tarr Steps- one of the oldest medieval bridges in the UK. You can walk across the bridge as part of one of the many forest walks and there are loads of nearby waterfalls and paths to explore.

If you’re visiting Dulverton by motorhome, caravan or campervan, there’s a lovely campsite right in the town, which is a great base for a couple of days. If you’re there at the end of the month, a popular Farmer’s Market is held on the last Saturday (between April- September).

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South Devon Road Trip Ideas

South Devon is a great place for a road trip. There are plenty of places to visit and things to do for all tastes.

Some of our favourite places to visit for fun days out (or longer visits) include:

Dartmouth & Kingswear

I love Dartmouth- it’s one of the few places which feels like home, which is hilarious as I only lived here for about 9 months!

The town is set on the banks of the River Dart, surrounded by hills (trust me, I ran up them a lot!) The entire place is overlooked by Britannia Royal Naval College and occasionally you’ll hear naval salutes, parades or even cannon fire. Heck, last time we visited a Merlin Helicopter flew overhead.

Dartmouth town is quite small and is easily seen in a couple of days. There are plenty of unique shops, galleries and craft stalls to occupy any shoppers, and enough historic houses and buildings to make the whole town feel utterly charming.

For more active activities, you can take a boat or car ferry across the river to Kingswear and then grab a steam train. They also do a ’round robin’ trip in summer, where you get a boat down the river and then take the steam train back.

You can also visit nearby Greenways, holiday home of Agatha Christie and there are several animal parks in the area for younger children to enjoy. There’s also the ruins of the 15th century Dartmouth Castle to visit- you can get a boat trip out and back, as well as boat trips to nearby Salcombe and Brixham.

There aren’t any amazing campsites for Dartmouth- they’re all a bit outside. Our favourite is Hillhead , which boasts amazing views!

Salcombe Harbour & Beaches

Salcombe is one of the prettiest harbours on the south coast of Devon. A water sports haven, there are plenty of places to go sailing, kayaking, surfing or even paddle boarding.

To be clear, Salcombe Harbour is where the quay and shops are and is NOT the same place as Salcombe Beaches, although they are close. There are several beaches within 10-15 minutes of the harbour/ town are a couple of smaller beaches within the harbour.

The best beaches for families are either North Sands or South Sands (shown above)and you can also take a ferry across the estuary to East Portlemouth.

There are some wonderful restaurants and bars in Salcombe, serving locally-caught seafood and local produce. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream or the award-winning Salcombe Gin!

Again, there are no campsites right in the town- Start Bay has one a few miles away, or there are a couple in the other direction.

Exeter is one of my favourites cities in the UK. It dates back to the Roman era and has some beautiful buildings and monuments, including the gothic Exeter Cathedral. Don’t forget to soak up the sun and people watch on the Cathedral green.

One of my favourite places is the University- parts of which were apparently inspiration for JK Rowling and Hogwarts. I also love winding through the back streets in the old town- the shops and building there are brilliant.

One of the most popular places to visit is the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery. Here, you’ll find stunning displays and exhibitions and experience life in Victorian times.

Something not many people know about are the Underground passages- a network of spaces under the city which can only be accessed as part of a guided tour.

There are plenty of places to stay around the city as part of your Devon Road Trip. If you’re a member of a motorhome club , there’s a site at Exeter Racecourse which is lovely.

Explored by Jessie Moore of Pocket Wanderings

Totnes is a charming market town in South Devon. Located on the banks of the River Dart, it is a perfect place for riverside walks and dining, as well as kayaking and canoeing.

An eccentric town that offers something unique to the more traditional Devon towns, Totnes is a hub of creativity and vibrance. With a strong artistic influence, visitors will find a number of interesting museums and art galleries to explore.

For a more historic slant, step back in time at Totnes Castle – a classic Norman Motte and Bailey castle dating back to the 13th century. Or you can hop aboard the South Devon Railway to enjoy a steam train ride through the picturesque countryside.

For cheese and wine enthusiasts, a visit to Sharpham Vineyard is a wonderful fun day out. Take a tour of the winery and indulge in some wine-tasting with their delectable selection of English wines and local cheeses.

You won’t find many chain establishments in Totnes, as it has a strong independent feel with many boutique shops and restaurants. Totnes is famous for its admirable green and ethical credentials, so you can enjoy fresh produce from local farm shops in the cafes and eateries.

Steamer Quay campsite is an easy walk from the town, yet very peaceful for a stay.

By Nichola, Globalmouse Travels

Torquay is fantastic for day trips, weekends away or longer Devon road trips. This Victorian seaside town is packed full of character and still has the main reason visitors have been drawn here for centuries – its gorgeous beaches.

From Meadfoot Beach, Oddicombe Beach and Ansteys Cove there is a great variety here with plenty of lovely stretches of sand and pebbles to enjoy year-round. If you’re planning family holidays in Devon , you can’t go wrong with Torquay. It’s shaking off its slightly faded image and there are some fantastic restaurants and hotels in the area.

Don’t miss the delightful Babbacombe Cliff Railway which has been running since 1926 and is a wonderful way to get down to Oddicombe Beach. Take a trip on the English Riviera Wheel on the waterfront for spectacular views across the town and beyond or lose yourself in the quirky history of Bygones.

If you’re a real history fan there’s also the Torquay Museum and the wonderful Torre Abbey, a thousand-year-old building which is now also a museum in its own right as well as being the best-preserved medieval monastery in Devon and Cornwall. There’s plenty here to keep visitors occupied for as long as you can possibly stay.

Widdicombe Farm campsite is nearby and perfect for stays with a motorhome, campervan, touring caravan or tent.

Paignton- the beach with the red sand

Paignton is a seaside town within the Torbay area (otherwise known as the English Riviera, which is UNESCO recognised.)

It has a long sandy beachfront with a traditional promenade and green and there’s plenty to do here year-round; and it’s dog friendly too! The beach is known for its reddish looking sand- especially noticeable at sunset.

As well as the beach, there’s a steam train for a fun day our, a pier and even a zoo. As with all tourist towns, there are plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and ice-cream sellers!

Explored by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best places to visit in Devon is the city of Plymouth. Plymouth is a port city with a very long history stretching back to the Bronze Age. Nowadays there are about 300,000 people in the city.

There are many things to do in Plymouth that make the city worthwhile to visit on your Devon Road Trip. For example, for those who like contemporary art, the Gallery at Plymouth College of Art is great! There are many exhibitions and events of this style.

Another thing to do in Plymouth is going to the Mayflower Steps. This is the place where the Pilgrim Fathers supposedly left England on the Mayflower ship. Also, the Barbican is worth visiting when in Plymouth. This is an old part of the city that is great to wander through. There are many historic buildings and cobblestone lanes. Moreover, this is a great part of the city for dinner as there are many restaurants here. Also, you’ll find lots of shops, cafes and pubs.

There are many campsites around Plymouth for you to base yourself for a few days.

Exmouth – with its beautiful painted houses

Exmouth is a seaside resort 11 miles southeast of Exeter. It’s famous for its watersports- particularly Kite surfing, kayaking and windsurfing.

Kids will love the beaches and activities on offer, including crazy golf, play parks and even a life-size dinosaur safari trail. For fun family days out, try Crealy Adventure Park or World of Country Life.

There are plenty of things to do in Exmouth, including visiting the popular indoor market and browsing the many unique shops. There’s also a lot of heritage and history in the area- a Blue Plague heritage trail is available to follow if you’re interested.

There’s also the picturesque Exe Estuary cycle trail, running from Exmouth to Dawlish along the banks of the estuary. There’s plenty to see along the route, making it an ideal fun day out in South Devon.

Dartmoor National Park is a vast area of moorland. It’s not so much South Devon as central Devon, and it’s easily reached as part of your Devon road trip from either the North or South coast.

The moor is famous for the Dartmoor ponies, which wander freely through the landscape. Expect them to wander onto the road with no regard whatsoever for cars or motorhomes!

There is plenty to see within Dartmoor. It’s a hikers paradise, with many rock formations (called Tors) to climb- it’s common for people to make a list and try to visit them all.

There are also trails which take you to Neolithic tombs, Bronze Age stone circles, abandoned medieval farmhouses and even the infamous Dartmoor prison.

Some of the activities you can enjoy at Dartmoor include:

• Horse riding (there are even places where you can bring and stable your own horse)
• Climbing/ Bouldering
• Camping- whether in a tent or motorhome but NOT motorhome wild camping- that’s forbidden. Wild camping with a tent is fine.
• Canoeing/ Kayaking

Within the confines of the National Park, there are plenty of cute villages to visit and enjoy an ice-cream or cream tea.

I hope that’s helped given you some ideas for places to visit on your Devon Road Trip. Let us know where you go!

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• Unmissable places in Hampshire and Dorset
• Cornwall road trip itinerary
• How to plan a motorhome trip
• UK motorhome holiday ideas and itineraries

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15 Best Places In Devon To Visit

Nestled within the Southwest of England, and just shy of beautiful Cornwall , Devon is a totally stunning area to visit. Honestly, there’s a heap of the best places in Devon that you can’t miss on a trip to this part of England, especially on its coastline and within its national parks. 

We’ve visited Devon quite a few times over the years and always loved it!

From the stunning North Devon coastline , stopping in places like Ilfracombe and hunting for dinosaur fossils on the Jurassic Coast (nearby), it’s a region that’s too diverse and beautiful to miss. 

So, to help you get the most out of your time when visiting Devon, I wanted to share some absolute gems that we love. Perched all across Devon, these spots are perfect waypoints and pit stops that I hope you’ll love as much as me. 

Take a look, below, at the best places in Devon to visit. Have an amazing time! 

1.) Dartmoor National Park

One of England’s national parks , Dartmoor is totally beautiful to visit (as you’d expect from a national park), right?

Well, the other thing that makes Dartmoor so special is how few people live here. It’s the least densely populated and largest open space in all of southern England. This all means it’s one of the best places in Devon to visit if you want to explore the great outdoors and get away from it all. 

Over the years, there’s been a heap of local folklore that has been passed down over centuries, too. With stories of headless horsemen, Devonshire fairies and otherworldly beasts, it’s a region that’s steeped in legend! In fact, Dartmoor is what inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s third Sherlock Holmes novel, The Hounds of the Baskervilles.

Anyway, legends aside, once you arrive be sure to t rek up to Dartmoor’s tors, the highest points in Southern England. There’s so many dotted all across the park and typically on top of higher points (the highest being High Willhays Tor ). Most of these have stood since the Bronze Age and it’s perfect for a ramble. 

Afterwards, head over to the western fringes of Dartmoor and explore visit St Michael’s Church in Brentor. It dates all the way back to the 12th century and stands proudly overlooking the park. 

Finally, just in case you haven’t seen enough of Dartmoor, pop across to Lustleigh and visit the tiniest little hamlet that filled with thatched cottages.

Plus, you can easily partner this with a visit to Becky Falls that are around 70ft high. 

Read more: Best things to do in North Devon

2.) Jurassic Coast

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast is not only one of the best places in Devon to visit, it’s one of the most magnificent coastlines in all of England that stretches into Dorset, too. 

Named the Jurassic Coast due to its 185 million years of history (or so), the sedimentary layers of rock have been revealed by sea erosion ever since.

This has led to it being one of the best places to search for fossils and with every new bit of tidal erosion, new fossils are released.

We spent a few hours on the beach looking for them… we ended up finding five of them! 

Afterwards, head across to explore Durdle Door and see the massive sea stacks of Old Harry Rocks . Both totally stunning and gorgeous to visit. 

Finally, don’t forget to stop off at Corfe Castle , a settlement and town that’s been inhabited for around 8,000 years! 

Read more: How to find fossils on the Jurassic Coast

3.) Ilfracombe

Situated right on the coast of North Devon, Ilfracombe is a historic fishing town that’s totally lovely to anchor yourself for a few days away.

You see, not only is there a heap of epic things to do in Ilfracombe but there’s also loads of stuff to do in the wider region around the town itself. 

After arriving, be sure to head to the harbour area and check out Verity , the colossal art installation that was imagined by Damien Hirst.

From here, you can then pop into the Chapel of St Nicholas and stroll the cliffs around Tunnels Beach for a gorgeous stroll. 

Don’t forget to head over to the Valley of Rocks that’s around 25-minutes east of Ilfracombe .

Here, you’ll get to follow the South-West Coast Path and spot the wild goats and prehistoric geologic that makes this such a unique part of Devon. 

Oh, and you can easily visit the Valley of Rocks whilst partnering a trip to Lynton and Lynmouth, too! 

Read more: Best things to do in Ilfracombe

4.) Paignton

Just west of Torquay, Paignton is a great little place to visit if you want a seaside holiday in Devon. With Paignton Beach and Broadsands Beach nearby, the area’s a perfect spot to catch some waves! 

Afterwards, take a trip to Greenway House, t he holiday home of Dame Agatha Christie! Greenway House is a must-see for fans of her books, especially as you can find first editions of her works inside.

Also, don’t forget to take a little trip to Berry Pomeroy Castle that’s just outside Paignton, too – the Elizabethan House is amazing to see and date back centuries. 

5.) Hartland Peninsula 

No trip to Devon is complete without some time in the countryside! 

We totally loved staying around the Hartland Peninsula as it was completely chilled and complete countryside. We decided to stay a few nights at Loveland Farm who pride itself on sustainability.

Their pod was so amazing, we didn’t want to leave.  

Also, don’t forget to check out Speke’s Mill , a whopping 50+ metre high waterfall that’s right by the South-West Coast Path. 

Read more: Our time staying at Loveland Farm

6.) Lynton and Lynmouth

Perched on the mouth of the West Lyn River, Lynton and Lynmouth are two towns that are separated by the steep hill that goes right through them.

Now, you can walk up the steep hills but there’s a much more fun way to get to the top. Head on the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway that goes regularly and well worth the small fee to ride it. 

Both are gorgeous little places where you can whisk away a few hours of exploring. 

Read more: Our time exploring Lynton and Lynmouth

7.) Woolacombe Beach

One of the best beaches in England , Woolacombe is a favourite destination among locals and visitors, too. Perfect for families, surfers and anyone in between, Woolacombe Beach is a not-so-hidden gem that’s well worth exploring. 

With a white sandy coastline, Woolacombe is the kind of place you come for the day and just chill. Just be sure to take a picnic with you (otherwise, you might end up heading back to Ilfracombe for lunch).

Read more: Best beaches in England

8.) Exmoor National Park

One of Devon’s two national parks, Exmoor is situated in North Devon and is a treat to explore.

Once here, make sure to spend some time exploring the moors and walk through the ancient forests that make this spot so special. Plus, you’ll get to see the Tarr Steps , a clapper bridge that’s been around since Medieval times. 

If you want to make a day of it, head out on an Exmoor Safari . This is what we did and ended up spotting some of the local deer, horses and birds of prey within the park.

Read more: Our safari in Exmoor National Park

8.) Lundy Island

Lundy Island , the biggest island in the English Channel, is one of the best places in Devon to go for an adventure!

Now, the island has had a long and turbulent history, hosting a number of different conflicts and invasions. Though there’s no need to worry about that anymore – nowadays, it’s totally serene and the only disturbance you’ll come across is from the wildlife. 

Accessible by boat from Devon, Lundy Island has a huge variety of animal life including the gorgeous puffins that frequent the shores. It’s totally beautiful and well worth a visit if you love your wildlife. 

Read more: Best islands in England

10.) Dartmouth

This charming historic town, aptly named based on its position on the mouth of the River Dart, is one of the prettiest coastal towns in England.

Well, that and Kingswear that’s opposite. 

With its bustling harbour and quaint colourful riverfront houses, Dartmouth has an undeniable character that’s totally gorgeous for a day trip.

Stroll on through the town’s cobbled streets and alleyways that appear almost unchanged from how they would have centuries ago. 

After spending some time within the town, drive towards the coast to spot Dartmouth Castle . Dating back over 500-years, this castle is totally unique and so picturesque to see. 

Read more: Best castles in England to visit

11.) Salcombe

Halfway down the coast between Plymouth and Torquay, Salcombe is a beautiful little town that’s totally idyllic for a few days away.

Tucked on the estuary, Salcombe is the kind of place you visit for chilled out strolls, pottering around the little boutiques and grabbing long lunches with a tipple. It’s all so dreamy, especially in summer. 

Make sure to grab a local treat from Salcombe Dairy – they make all their ice cream in-house and the flavours are totally delicious. 

Read more: Best things to do in Plymouth

12.) Totnes

The unique little town of Totnes is a great little spot to visit, especially if you’re based around Dartmouth or Paignton.

Here, you’ll get to e xplore the organic and fair-trade market that pops up twice a week and visit the locally-owned restaurants, pubs and shops on Totnes’ high street.

Afterwards, take a stroll through and soak up the history at Totnes Castle, Dartington Hall, and grab a bite at the Waterside Bistro . Their lamb tagines are so fragrant and flavourful! 

13.) Exeter

One of the larger cities in Devon, Exeter has thousands of years of history and even dates back to Roman times.

Not only that, it’s one of the best places in Devon to visit for a city break, with a heap of things to see and do for a short weekend stop.

Once here, be sure to explore the iconic Exeter Cathederal, head inside the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and tour the Underground Passages that date back over 500 years!

It’s such a great place. 

14.) Dartmoor Prison Museum

Dartmoor Prison , located on the desolate plains of Dartmoor, operated during the 1800s and is the site of many gruesome deaths. Although pretty macabre, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in the history of the region (and its prisoners). 

Way back, the prison was initially constructed to hold American prisoners of war. Over time, the prison became riddled with all sorts of problems, from; overcrowding, disease, mutinies to executions!

Nowadays, curious visitors can pop into the Dartmoor Prison Museum to explore! 

15.) The Treby Arms

Just shy of Plymouth , and right on the border of Devon, The Treby Arms is a great little foodie spot to visit on a road trip around Devon. 

Serving up a yummy mix of traditional pub grub and more eclectic creations, The Treby Arms is the perfect dinner spot to grab a bite. Their homemade pies and are everything! 

Read more: Best places in Cornwall to visit

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Welcome to Devon.... England's Natural Playground

Whether you’re looking for adventure,  experiences , culture or some R&R, Devon is the place for you. This diverse county has everything you could think of and a little more besides! From the bustling historic cities of  Plymouth  and  Exeter,  where you can enjoy live music, an active nightlife and all the culture you could consume, to the varied coastlines, the abundance of Natural Landscapes (AONB), the popular  English Riviera  and everything else in between!

Not content with being a beautiful county, Devon is also home to  two coastlines  and two  National Parks . The gorgeous  Jurassic Coast  can be found in the East of the county, while  North Devon  features unparalleled coastal views and then of course, there is the rough and wild beauty of  Exmoor  and  Dartmoor.  With its plentiful waterways, quaint market towns, bustling cities, coastal resorts and rural retreats, Devon is the ultimate holiday destination.

A diverse range of attractions

Whatever your interests and whatever your budget, you’ll find a whole host of things to see and do while in Devon.

Devon is probably best known for its coastal resorts, the dramatic cliffs that line the coast in the east of the county is a great place for rockpooling,  sailing  and  fishing , while North Devon’s coast is a  haven for surfers  and those that love  watersports  and scenic views. In the south, there is the  English Rivera and Torbay , as well as the stunning beaches that can be found in  Salcombe . The county is famed for its  award winning beaches , many of which are awarded Blue Flag status and regularly top polls as some of the best in Britain.

While adventure begins at the sea, not everyone has their sea legs, so why not explore the diverse landscapes of Devon’s countryside. From the National Parks,  Dartmoor  and  Exmoor  and the countryside of  Mid Devon , the county really is England's natural playground. The region is covered by an abundance of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with biospheres, geoparks and nature reserves all over for bird spotting and scouting out the region’s wildlife, including otters and beavers!

Whether you love the coast or country, Devon is perfect for those who love being outdoors.

Not only that, but Devon is the ideal destination for those compromising – the outdoors offers the chance to challenge yourself with  watersports ,  hiking ,  cycling  and  climbing , but Devon is also a cultural hub full of  incredible festivals , live music and  food – so whether you are inside or out, you’ll find something that suits you!

Exeter ,  Plymouth  and the  larger towns  offer plenty of opportunity for a fun night out, with  excellent restaurants  serving locally sourced food and lots of chances to exercise your credit card in a  range of boutique and high street stores.

With family-friendly  attractions  including  historic and heritage  sites like museums and steam train rides, as well as  theme parks  and much more, it is a great place for kids and adults alike and with the abundance of  cosy cottages,  it’s perfect for  romantic getaways,   dog-friendly breaks  and solo adventures too!

Scenic Surroundings

Looking for accommodation?  In Devon, you’re spoiled for choice and with the region’s incredible scenery, you are almost always guaranteed a room with a view. Whether you’re looking for something by the coast, somewhere hidden away in the country, a luxury manor house,  a safari tent  or even a castle, there are some amazing accommodation options for you to choose from.

Experience a real taste of Devon

Because of the diversity of the landscape, Devon’s  restaurants ,  cafes, tearooms  and  hotels  have menus packed full of locally sourced, fresh, s easonal food and drink.  From fresh fish pulled out of the harbour in  Brixham  or  Ilfracombe  that morning, to  gin distilled in Plymouth  to  lavish cream tea s served with homemade jam and local cream, Devon is the ultimate foodie destination.

So, whatever it is you are looking for from your staycation or UK holiday, you can be sure of a world of discoveries and experiences right here in Devon.

Keep up to date with everything that is going on in the region by  signing up to our newsletter.

Welcome to Torquay’s Miniature World

Feel like a giant as you step through the small entrance and the vast miniature world opens up before you. Explore 4 acres of award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of uniquely hand-crafted model scenes, vehicles & people.

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Easter in devon, places to stay in devon.

Wherever you choose to base yourself on your Devon getaway you can guarantee some…

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Fill your days in Devon with lots of activities and attractions for all ages.

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Top places to explore in plymouth by bike.

• 2 minute read

With warmer weather hopefully on the way, Spring is a great time to get out on your bikes and do some exploring and there are fewer places better than Plymouth – it isn’t all the hustle and bustle you can expect from a city, it’s full of maritime history and surrounded by some beautiful woodlands…

Where to stay to see the changing seasons

• 3 minute read

If you were to ask us when our favourite time to visit Devon is, we wouldn’t be able to give you an answer… Summer has those incredible days at the beach, the winter gives us a whole new dramatic atmosphere, the autumn has those amazing colours and spring, well, spring is full of baby lambs and…

Congratulations to this year’s winners of the South West Tourism Excellence Awards

Businesses across Devon are celebrating after being honoured at this year’s South West Tourism Excellence Awards. The event, which took place on 14 th March at the Great Hall of the University of Exeter, saw 89 awards being presented. All forms of hospitality business were amongst the winners, with…

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10 Best Seaside Towns In Devon To Visit

• by Jonny Duncan
• October 13, 2023 October 13, 2023

Nestled along the enchanting southwestern coast of England, these seaside towns in Devon boast an array of picturesque seaside towns, each offering its own unique blend of coastal charm, natural beauty, and historical significance.

With its stunning coastline that stretches along the English Channel and the Bristol Channel, Devon’s seaside towns are renowned for their sandy beaches, quaint fishing harbours, and scenic cliffs.

Seaside Towns In Devon

Whether you seek a bustling beachside resort, a tranquil fishing village, or a place to explore the wonders of the Jurassic Coast, the seaside towns in Devon have something to offer every traveller seeking a quintessential British seaside experience.

Torquay, often referred to as the “English Riviera,” is one of the most famous and vibrant of the seaside towns in Devon.

Situated on the South Devon coast, Torquay is known for its stunning Mediterranean-like climate, palm tree-lined streets, and a wealth of attractions.

With a rich maritime history, a picturesque waterfront, and a wide range of activities, Torquay has long been a popular destination for tourists and holidaymakers.

Visitors to Torquay can enjoy its sandy beaches, including Torre Abbey Sands and Meadfoot Beach, which are perfect for sunbathing and swimming during the summer months.

Torquay’s vibrant waterfront, known as Torquay Harbour, is a bustling area filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to enjoy fresh seafood, take a boat tour, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.

For those interested in natural beauty and outdoor activities, Torquay is a gateway to exploring the English Riviera Global Geopark, which features stunning geological formations and the UNESCO-designated Jurassic Coast.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Torquay offers a range of family-friendly activities, including the Living Coasts coastal zoo and the Babbacombe Model Village, a miniature world that captivates visitors of all ages.

Located near Torquay, Paignton is another charming seaside town in Devon with a long sandy beach and a traditional pier.

Paignton is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its sandy beaches, amusement arcades, and various family-friendly activities. The town is part of the English Riviera, which also includes Torquay and Brixham.

Paignton’s main attraction is its long, sandy beach along the Torbay coast. The beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and leisurely walks.

The town is home to Paignton Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the UK. The zoo features a wide variety of animals and is known for its conservation efforts.

Paignton Pier is a classic seaside attraction, featuring amusements, arcades, and other entertainment options for visitors of all ages.

A picturesque fishing town, Brixham is famous for its colourful waterfront houses, bustling harbour, and excellent seafood restaurants. You can also explore the replica of the Golden Hind, the ship used by Sir Francis Drake.

It is part of the Torbay area, often referred to as the English Riviera, along with nearby towns like Torquay and Paignton. Brixham has a rich maritime heritage and offers a charming coastal experience.

Brixham has a long history as a fishing town, and it continues to be an active fishing port today. The town is famous for its colourful fishing boats and bustling fish market, where you can see the day’s catch being landed and sold.

The town has a modern marina that accommodates leisure and fishing boats. The marina area is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a vibrant and picturesque waterfront destination.

Berry Head is a prominent headland near Brixham and is home to a nature reserve. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks and birdwatching in this area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

Brixham is home to a replica of the Golden Hind, the ship in which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe. The Golden Hind Museum ship offers insights into maritime history making for one of the best places to visit from all these seaside towns in Devonb if you have an interest in maritime history.

The town is known for its excellent seafood, and you can enjoy delicious fish and chips or dine at seafood restaurants along the waterfront.

Brixham offers a blend of historical charm and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in the maritime history of Devon and one of the best seaside towns in Devon.

Situated at the mouth of the River Exe, Exmouth is known for its long sandy beach and water sports.

Exmouth boasts a long, sandy beach that is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. The beach overlooks the waters of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exmouth is a hub for water-based activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Exe Estuary is an excellent location for these activities, and there are rental shops and schools for those looking to learn.

The Exe Estuary is a unique and protected natural area where you can spot a variety of bird species and enjoy scenic walks and bike rides along the Exe Estuary Trail.

Orcombe Point, located at the western end of Exmouth beach, is known for its striking red sandstone cliffs. The Exmouth Geoneedle, a marker, stands here and represents the beginning of the Jurassic Coast, displaying the geological history of the area.

The town center has a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy shopping and dining. Exmouth also hosts regular markets and events.

Exmouth serves as a gateway to other interesting places in Devon, such as the historic city of Exeter and the beautiful East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Sidmouth is a more traditional and relaxed place, making it one of the best seaside towns in Devon to visit. It’s famous for its beautiful gardens and Regency architecture.

Sidmouth boasts two main beaches, the pebble beach and Jacob’s Ladder Beach. These beaches are ideal for taking leisurely strolls, picnicking, and enjoying the coastal views. The pebble beach is also known for its traditional beach huts.

Jurassic Coast: Sidmouth is situated along the Jurassic Coast famous for its unique geology, fossils, and rock formations, making it a popular destination for geology enthusiasts.

These beautiful gardens overlook the sea and are perfect for a relaxing stroll. They are home to a variety of colorful flowers and plants and offer lovely views of the coastline.

The South West Coast Path runs through Sidmouth, offering spectacular walks along the coastline. The cliffs and cliffsides provide excellent vantage points to take in the natural beauty.

The town center offers a selection of independent shops, galleries, and charming tearooms and restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood and other local delicacies.

Known for its distinctive black swans and red sandstone cliffs, Dawlish is a tranquil and charming coastal town. The town is well connected by rail and has a popular seafront park.

Dawlish boasts a sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is easily accessible and provides beautiful views of the sea.

Just to the northeast of Dawlish, you’ll find Dawlish Warren, a nature reserve and beach area. It’s a haven for birdwatching, and the sand dunes and wildlife are protected for conservation.

The small river known as “The Brook” flows through the center of Dawlish, and it is picturesque with its walkways and bridges, making it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.

Dawlish is famous for its resident black swans, which have become an iconic symbol of the town. You can often see these birds on the brook and in the town’s ponds.

Located on the Teign Estuary, Teignmouth offers a long sandy beach, a traditional pier, and a variety of water-based activities.

Teignmouth boasts two main beaches, Teignmouth Beach and Shaldon Beach, which offer opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. The sandy shores and calm waters make them popular for families.

The River Teign flows through the town and forms an estuary that provides a lovely setting for walks and birdwatching. The estuary is also a great place for sailing and boating.

The Grand Pier at Teignmouth offers an array of amusements, arcades, and entertainment options. It’s a fun place to visit, especially for families.

Located on the opposite bank of the Teign Estuary, Shaldon Zoo is a small but well-regarded zoo that focuses on the conservation of rare and endangered species.

The town center features Georgian and Victorian architecture, including Regency-style buildings. It’s a pleasant place to explore, with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Teignmouth is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in the estuary and along the coast.

Teignmouth is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals and one of the best seaside towns in Devon to visit.

This North Devon town is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, including the rugged cliffs at Hillsborough Hill and the iconic Tunnels Beaches. It’s also a departure point for boat trips to Lundy Island.

Ilfracombe’s harbor is a focal point of the town. It features a picturesque combination of fishing boats, pleasure craft, and waterfront restaurants. Visitors can take boat trips from the harbor to explore the North Devon coast.

One of the town’s most famous landmarks is the Verity statue, created by the British artist Damien Hirst. This striking 66-foot bronze sculpture stands at the entrance to the harbor and represents themes of truth and justice.

Ilfracombe has a unique feature called the Tunnels Beaches, which are a network of hand-carved tunnels leading to sheltered coves and tidal pools. They are a great spot for swimming and exploring.

Ilfracombe Aquarium features a variety of marine life and is an educational and entertaining attraction for visitors of all ages.

The Landmark Theatre is a contemporary arts venue with a striking design, offering a program of events, including music, theater, and comedy.

Hillsborough Nature Reserve islocated on the edge of town, this nature reserve provides walking trails and scenic viewpoints, offering panoramic views of Ilfracombe and the surrounding coast.

The town center has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as traditional pubs serving local food.

Ilfracombe is a popular destination for visitors seeking a mix of natural beauty, artistic flair, and coastal charm.

Part of the Exmoor National Park, Lynmouth is a picturesque village, rather than one of the seaside towns in Devon with a stunning location where the East and West Lyn Rivers meet the sea.

Lynmouth is often paired with its neighboring village of Lynton, and the two are collectively referred to as Lynton and Lynmouth.

Lynmouth is renowned for its natural beauty, nestled between steep cliffs and the dramatic coastline of Exmoor. The Lyn River flows through the village, adding to the picturesque scenery.

Lynmouth is connected to Lynton by the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a funicular railway that offers stunning views as it climbs the steep hillside.

Located just outside Lynton, the Valley of Rocks is a remarkable geological formation featuring dramatic rock formations, rugged terrain, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.

Lynmouth serves as a gateway to Exmoor National Park, offering numerous walking and hiking trails, including the South West Coast Path. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, from moorlands to woodlands and valleys.

The village has a selection of quaint shops, galleries, and cafes where you can enjoy local products and homemade treats.

The Exmoor Sculpture Trail showcases a series of contemporary sculptures set within the natural landscapes surrounding Lynton and Lynmouth.

Located on the Jurassic Coast , Seaton offers a pebble beach, a tramway along the Axe Valley, and the Seaton Jurassic visitor centre, which showcases the geological history of the region.

Seaton’s pebble beach is a popular destination if you’re looking to relax by the sea, take a stroll along the promenade, and enjoy the views of the English Channel. It is also an excellent place for beachcombing and enjoying the coastal scenery.

The Seaton Tramway is a heritage tramway operating vintage trams that run through the Axe Valley, providing a unique and scenic way to explore the area’s natural beauty. The trams pass through wetlands, nature reserves, and offer panoramic views.

The Seaton Wetlands are a nature reserve offers birdwatching, walking trails, and opportunities to observe wildlife in a tranquil and beautiful wetland setting. It’s a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Seaton Jurassic visitor center and attraction provides interactive exhibits and information about the natural history and geology of the Jurassic Coast, allowing visitors to learn more about the area’s prehistoric past.

Seaton is a great place for those interested in the natural world, history, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for both a relaxing getaway and exploring the Jurassic Coast and one of the best seaside towns in Devon.

These are just a few of the delightful seaside towns in Devon you can explore. Each has its unique charm, whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches, water sports, historic architecture, or simply a relaxing coastal escape.

For more on the region take a look at the 20 best seaside towns in Cornwall .

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Devon Energy picked as ‘tactical idea’ at Wells Fargo

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Devon Energy ( NYSE: DVN ) on Monday was added to the “tactical idea” list by analysts at financial-services firm Wells Fargo Securities. They said the oil and gas driller is poised for gains as its production increases in the Delaware Basin region of New Mexico and western Texas.

“Devon ( DVN ) is likely to provide a better-than-expected second-quarter 2024 production guidance along with first-quarter 2024 earnings release and begin to beat and raise throughout the year,” Roger Read, analyst at Wells Fargo, said in an April 1 report.

The bank previously upgraded Devon ( DVN ) to Overweight from a previous investment rating of Hold, and set a price target of $59 a share, based on 90% of the net asset value of its developed and undeveloped production.

“The company struggled with well productivity in 2023 and significantly underperformed the sector and S&P 500 peers,” according to Wells Fargo. “We anticipate that Devon’s (DVN high-grading efforts in 2024 will lead to a significant improvement in capital efficiency which should catalyze a re-rating of the stock.”

Devon's ( DVN ) stock this year has risen 11%.

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Snow leads to 'extreme care' warning for drivers

Snow settled across the county

• Published 28 March 2024

Motorists in Devon have been urged to drive with "extreme care" after snow fell overnight.

Snow settled in several areas of the county, including Plymouth, Ivybridge, north Devon and Dartmoor.

Devon County Council said , external : "Our gangs have been working all night to keep the roads passable, but drive with extreme care, avoid high roads and stick to main roads where possible."

A yellow wind warning is currently in place for parts of Devon.

People have been urged to stick to the main roads

Drivers have been warned to take 'extreme care' on the roads in Devon

PCSO Debbie Hollinson, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said on X , external , formerly known as Twitter: "We’re seeing lots of snow in the areas surrounding Plymouth this morning."

Two inches (5cm) of snow settled on the ground in North Wyke, just north of Dartmoor overnight.

Rose Mallard, 50, a smallholder from near Bideford, said: "To wake up to see the snow settled and a beautiful blue sky was a gift."

Temperatures dropped to lows of -1.2C (30F) in Okehampton.

On Wednesday night, Insp Dave Thubron said on social media , external snow had caused "poor travelling conditions at altitude".

Snow on Dartmoor near South Brent

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People in parts of north Devon woke to a winter scene

Plymouth Citybus posted , external : "All services running this morning.

"However some adverse weather and a lot of surface water please allow plenty of time for journeys this morning."

Snow fell across several locations in Devon including on Dartmoor

Trees blown over

Jen Murphy, from Devon County Council's highways team, said the snow had been anticipated, but was "deeper than expected" in some areas.

Speaking to BBC Radio Devon, she said most of the snow had cleared on Thursday as road temperatures went back above freezing.

Ms Murphy added the highways team had its focus on the weather warning for wind, which is in place until 23:59 GMT on Thursday, alongside the snowfall, with trees being reported as blown over in the county.

"Mostly our advice is for drivers that are out and about on the road is that need to watch out for trees and other debris that may be there as a result of the wind," she said.

"Especially with it being the start of the Easter holiday, meaning that we're expecting a lot of people out there towing trailers and caravans on our roads from today onwards."

Analysis: David Braine, Senior Broadcast Meteorologist

It was a bit of a surprise to see snow at low levels last night, the forecast was for it to be above 200-300m (600-900ft).

Forecasting snow is notoriously difficult, but we think the intensity of the rain initially created large vertical currents of air.

This brought some very cold air from high in the atmosphere down to the surface and turned the rain temporarily to snow for an hour or so.

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Wind warning issued for parts of South West

• Published 27 March

Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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Future of Exeter Vaccination Centre hangs in the balance

Councillors will visit the site before making a decision over its future

• 05:00, 3 APR 2024

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The fate of a temporary building at Greendale Business Park that was used as a vaccination centre during the coronavirus pandemic still hangs in the balance.

The 72-metre-long structure was built under emergency regulations in 2021. East Devon District Council (EDDC) later agreed it could stay in use by the NHS until the end of 2022, but that it had to be removed by 31 December 2023.

Paul James of FWS Carter & Sons Ltd, which owns and operates Greendale Business Park, had applied to keep the building permanently beyond this date for a range of purposes including commercial, residential and medical use.

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New Devon rail link could radically transform deprived town

The council’s planning committee refused this application in December. Mr James applied again to keep the structure, but this time just for NHS use as a ‘surge’ centre.

Planning officers recommended councillors refuse the fresh application on grounds the building goes against EDDC’s ‘local plan’, a guide for new development in the district; not given enough justification was given as to why the NHS needs it in this location; and other concerns such as its visual impact on the landscape.

At a recent committee, councillors couldn’t agree whether to grant or refuse planning permission and instead voted to visit the site before making a decision.

Cllr Ian Barlow (Independent, Sidmouth Town) said: “We’re all getting a little bit blasé nowadays with covid .

“Covid was the last pandemic. We don’t know what’s coming. You never know what’s coming.

“The reason that Greendale was so successful is, if you remember back then, there was a lot of pressure on the National Health Service. It didn’t have lots of people to set up [but] lots of little ones to deal with lots of little groups of people.

“We needed something that was going to basically….save us. And this building was built three years ago now – in 28 days from memory. It was so impressive.

“I did argue last time that as far as I was concerned it is stupid for a building to be sat there and I don’t see the difference if a building is there and it can be used in short order by the National Health Service, what is wrong with using it for other much-needed business reasons?”

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Cllr Eleanor Rylance (Lib Dem, Broadclyst) said: “Cllr Barlow mentioned it took a very short time to erect this building.

“That’s because it’s a modular building erected on a base that was very luckily already under the ground there. It’s very, very easy to take it down, probably to recycle as well I should think. You can probably reuse the building somewhere else.

“We do have other buildings that can be used. There was a specific reason why our showground, for example, was not used last time, but that would also be perfect.

“It is just a warehouse at the end of the day. And there are many warehouses, dotted around East Devon, dotted around Exeter . I think there is a danger of over-focusing on this particular building.

“We are still, after a very short number of months, running the risk of giving the go-ahead something that’s in contravention of our own policies and therefore giving a green light to the potential building of other such buildings elsewhere in the district.

“We have to be really careful with our own policies and protect them because once we let people contravene them then there’s no good reason for opposing them elsewhere either.”

Woodbury Parish Council supports keeping the building.

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

Other blog posts you might be interested in...

• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• A 2-week Norway road trip
• A complete guide to Helsinki
• A complete guide to Tallinn
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• The best things to do in Europe: the ultimate Europe bucket list

Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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Storm Kathleen to bring unseasonably wet and windy weather to UK and Ireland

Winds of up to 70mph may hit coastal areas this weekend as rain and snow could cause travel disruption in Scotland

Rain and wind weather warnings have been issued as much of the UK and Ireland is to be hit by Storm Kathleen.

Blustery conditions are due to arrive on Friday as the storm, named by the Met Eireann, the Irish Meteorological Service, rolls in.

Gusts of 50mph are “expected quite widely” on Saturday, while some exposed areas, particularly on the coast, will have 60 to 70mph gusts with large waves also likely, the Met Office said.

Kathleen will be the 11th named storm of the 2023-24 season, and becomes only the second to reach the letter K, after Storm Katie in March 2016.

Saturday will bring “unseasonably wet and windy” conditions, including heavy rain across parts of Scotland and potential outbreaks across western parts and north-east England, Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said.

Temperatures will remain mild despite the wind and rain. Burkhill added: “There is a good chance we could see highs of 20C which would be the first time we have seen 20C this year.”

Travel disruption is possible as heavy downpours are expected across central Scotland, with a Met Office yellow weather warning for rain on Friday between 2am and 9am.

The warning, covering the central, Tayside & Fife, south-west Scotland, Lothian Borders and Strathclyde areas, says there is likely to be “15-25mm of rain, much of this falling in around six hours with a few locations seeing up to 35mm overnight”.

A yellow warning for snow is in place on Friday from the early hours until 9am covering central, Tayside & Fife, Grampian, Highlands & Eilean Siar and Strathclyde, with downfalls particularly expected over higher ground.

There could be accumulations of snow of 10cm or more in places above 300 metres but “2-5cm of snow is expected fairly widely above 250 metres, with a chance that a few places within the warning area at lower levels could see a few centimetres settle”.

The forecaster has issued a yellow weather warning for wind in western areas, including parts of Scotland and Wales, and the north-west and south-west of England from 8am to 10pm on Saturday.

The Environment Agency had 12 flood warnings and 93 flood alerts in place in England on Thursday morning, largely in southern areas.

Looking ahead at the next 10 days, Burkill said: “There will be some wet weather around, could be quite heavy at times, but there are also some signs of something a little bit drier coming up later on.”

He said the end of next week could be “unseasonably windy [with] some heavy rain around at times particularly across northern and western parts”.

The RAC’s breakdown spokesperson, Rod Dennis, urged drivers to slow down, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and be prepared for a buffeting effect if overtaking high-sided vehicles. He added: “This intense period of stormy weather is going to prove extremely challenging for anyone driving on the western side of the UK.

“We strongly urge drivers to avoid exposed coasts and higher routes where the impact of the very strong winds is most likely to be felt.”

England saw a record amount of rainfall in the 18 months to March.

Figures released this week showed that 1,695.9mm of rain fell from October 2022 to March 2024, beating the previous record of 1,680.2mm, which had been set only the month before and covered the 18 months from September 2022 to February 2024.

This is the highest level for any 18-month period in England since comparable data began in 1836, according to analysis by the PA news agency of Met Office provisional statistics.

More on this story

UK at risk of summer water shortages and hosepipe bans, scientists warn

UK weather: rain disrupts Easter weekend events amid flood warnings

UK Easter weather and travel: ferries hit by winds as getaway begins for millions

Snow falls in Devon as UK prepares for ‘unsettled’ Easter weekend weather

UK weather warnings for wind and rain issued in run-up to Easter weekend

UK weather: Met Office issues yellow warning for snow in west of England

February was warmest on record in England and Wales, Met Office says

Flood warnings across England and Wales as heavy rain falls on ‘saturated ground’

Met Office issues yellow warning for heavy rain across much of England

UK weather: Britain braces for Arctic blast of heavy snow and ice

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