Best Things to Do in Devon: Coast, Moorland & Culture

Devon, a gem in southwest England, captivates with its dramatic coastlines, expansive national parks, and quaint villages. This guide dives into the county’s diverse offerings, from adrenaline-pumping outdoor pursuits to serene garden strolls and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a solo hiking trip, Devon’s blend of natural beauty and heritage ensures endless discoveries.

Embracing Devon’s Rugged Coastlines

Devon’s shoreline stretches along the English Channel and Bristol Channel, offering some of the UK’s most breathtaking walks and beaches. The South West Coast Path, England’s longest national trail, snakes through dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sandy bays. Starting from Minehead in neighboring Somerset, it traverses North Devon’s wild shores before curving south.

In North Devon, around Ilfracombe, visitors can rent boats to explore secluded spots like Brandy Cove and Smuggler’s Cove. Keep eyes peeled for seals, dolphins, and porpoises on sea safaris. The path’s rugged terrain challenges hikers while rewarding them with panoramic sea views.

South Devon’s coast features family-friendly beaches like Woolacombe and Dawlish Warren. Coasteering adventures in Torquay involve cliff jumps, swimming through sea caves, and rock climbing for thrill-seekers. These activities highlight Devon’s dynamic seaside, perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

• Hike sections near Lynton and Lynmouth for waterfall views.
• Visit Babbacombe Downs, England’s highest cliff-top promenade.
• Explore tide-dependent beaches like Lympstone for unique coastal ecosystems.

Wild Wonders of Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park dominates central Devon, spanning moorlands, tors (granite hills), and ancient woodlands. This UNESCO-designated area inspires with its prehistoric sites and diverse wildlife.

Key highlights include Wistman’s Wood, a lichen-draped forest evoking fairy tales, and Lydford Gorge with cascading waterfalls. Tors like Bowerman’s Nose and Hound Tor offer short climbs with sweeping vistas. History buffs appreciate Grimspound, a Bronze Age settlement, and the Dartmoor Prison Museum detailing its penal past.

Activities abound: cycling, horse riding, and white-water canoeing. For families, Becky Falls provides accessible woodland trails and picnic spots. Dartmoor’s dark skies make it ideal for stargazing, while guided tours reveal folklore of ghostly hounds.

Historic Towns and Cultural Gems

Exeter, Devon’s capital, blends Roman origins with medieval charm. Wander underground passages from the city’s defensive past, or tour the Gothic cathedral. Red coat guided walks reveal hidden stories, while Quayside Distillery offers gin tastings. Sports fans catch rugby at Sandy Park or explore the canal by kayak.

Torquay, the ‘English Riviera’, boasts Kents Cavern, prehistoric caves with guided tours through 700,000-year-old chambers. Babbacombe Model Village delights with miniature scenes of British life.

Plymouth honors maritime history at the National Marine Aquarium, home to sharks and rays, and Greenway House, Agatha Christie’s holiday retreat frozen in 1950s style. Brixham’s Golden Hind replica ship recreates Sir Francis Drake’s voyages, paired with fish market tours.

Family-Friendly Attractions and Farms

Devon excels for families with interactive sites. Pennywell Farm offers animal feeding, tractor rides, and gem panning. Quince Honey Farm lets visitors don suits to observe 60,000 bees and taste fresh honey.

Alpaca walking at Little Orchard Farm in Axminster combines cuddly encounters with countryside strolls. Theme parks like Watermouth Castle feature rides and adventure playgrounds, while Combe Martin Wildlife Park showcases dinosaurs and animals.

Indoor options include Bygones, an immersive museum of Victorian memorabilia, and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter with global artifacts. Powderham Castle hosts medieval jousting and falconry.

• Bicton Park Botanical Gardens: Train rides and adventure playgrounds.
• Buckfast Abbey: Stunning architecture and butterfly farm nearby.[10]
• House of Marbles: Glass marble exhibits and games.

Gardens, Estates, and Culinary Delights

Devon’s gardens rival its wilds. RHS Garden Rosemoor features themed areas, rose collections, and Millennium Garden. Bicton Park showcases botanical wonders and countryside museum.

Cockington Country Park offers thatched cottages and deer herds. Sharpham Estate provides wine and cheese tastings amid vines. Indulge in Devonshire cream teas—scones with clotted cream and jam—at riverside cafes like River Exe.

Foodie trails highlight local seafood, cheeses, and ciders. Visit Clovelly, a car-free village with donkey paths, for authentic rural charm.

Adventure Sports and Unique Experiences

Adrenaline junkies thrive in Devon. Rock climbing on coastal crags, orienteering in moors, and watersports like kayaking the River Dart. Coasteering tours jump waves and explore geoparks.

Lundy Island, accessible by boat from Ilfracombe, offers puffin spotting, lighthouse climbs, and wild camping. Dunkeswell Raceway hosts aerial spectacles. Alpaca farms and otter sanctuaries provide gentler thrills.[10]

Planning Your Devon Itinerary

Devon suits multi-day trips. Base in Exeter for city access, Torquay for beaches, or Dartmoor for nature. Public transport links towns, but rent a car for remote spots. Peak season (summer) books up; visit spring or autumn for fewer crowds.

Pack layers for changeable weather, sturdy boots for hikes, and binoculars for wildlife. Many sites offer accessibility options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to visit Devon?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and wildflowers. Summer peaks for beaches but crowds.

Is Devon family-friendly?

Yes, with farms, aquariums, and parks tailored for kids.

How do I get to Dartmoor?

Drive from Exeter (1 hour) or join guided bus tours.

Are there good hiking trails for beginners?

Yes, coastal paths have easy sections; check National Trust maps.

What unique wildlife can I see?

Dolphins, seals, puffins on Lundy, Dartmoor ponies.