north devon to visit

15 Places to Visit & Things to Do in North Devon, England

One of my favourite regions of the UK is North Devon, in South West England.

Devon is, in my opinion, the prettiest county in England (although they’re all beautiful in their own way) and it’s not hard to see why it’s one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, with stunning beaches, lots to do and fantastic food (oh the food).   

I’ve spent a lot of time in North Devon in my life and I consider it to be my second home – I even got married there. North Devon is my happy place, the place where I feel most relaxed, and think if I was ever to move away from where I live now, it would be down to Devon.

So I wanted to share some of my favourite places to visit and things to do in North Devon.

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Table of Contents

15 Best Places to Visit in North Devon, England

Exmoor national park.

Exmoor National Park covers a wide area that stretches from Somerset to North Devon.

Exmoor is a great place for walking and adventure activities (canoeing, mountain biking, horse riding etc) and it was also the first place in Europe to be designated a Dark Sky Reserve, making it an excellent place for stargazing.

You can also take a safari to spot deer with Red Stag Safari or take part in a National Park Ranger Experience .

National Trust – Watersmeet

A great little stop is Watersmeet , a National Trust property that looks like a fairy glen, where you can take walks through the woods or stop for tea and cakes at the tea room and garden.

It’s also a popular spot for canoeing and salmon fishing from March to September. 

Lynton & Lynmouth

I’ve put Lynton & Lynmouth together, as they’re basically the same place, separated only by height… and you can move between the two villages by the world-famous Cliff Railway , the steepest and highest fully water-powered Victorian railway in the World!

The villages are super pretty, with Lynmouth sitting on the pretty harbour and Lynton perched above. At low tide, the harbour drains, so if you want to see the village in its full glory, time your visit well.

Valley of the Rocks

One of my favourite things to do in North Devon is to visit the Valley of the Rocks, which is part of the South West Coast Path – which I’d love to hike one day!

This is a wonderful walk that can be as short or as long as you like. For the views in the picture above, head right (East) along the path if coming from the carpark. 

Parking is on a Pay & Display basis and costs £2.00 for an hour, £3.00 for 2 hours, or £5.00 for the day. You can also walk there from Lynton. 

Combe Martin

Combe Martin is a popular holiday spot, with a gorgeous sheltered beach that is perfect for swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking. The village is perfectly situated to explore the surrounding areas of Exmoor and Ilfracombe and there is also a good selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants. 

Kids (and adults) can enjoy the nearby Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park and the Watermouth Castle Theme Park.

Broadsands Beach

Another of my picks for the best places to visit in North Devon would be Broadsands Beach which is a great place for a picnic or wild swimming.

To get to Broadsands Beach, you need to park near the Sandy Cove Hotel (a great place to stop for a drink with amazing views or to stay) and take the path behind the hotel. Again, this is also part of the South West Coast Path and you can’t drive down it.

When you reach the sign for the beach (about 10 minutes down the path), take a right and carefully make your way down the 200 steps to the beach. Just remember that you need to come back up, so if you don’t have good mobility or fitness, you may struggle and there is no wheelchair access.

If you don’t fancy the steep walk to the beach, walk past the sign and take the next right, which will take you to the viewpoint above the beach (where I took the above picture). You can also walk there from the Watermouth Valley Camping Park (although if you come that way, the lookout will be the first left, not the second right). Just be aware of the tides, as the beach is much smaller at high tide (above is at low tide).

If you want to see the beach from the water, you can also take a boat trip from Ilfracombe or you can paddleboard around from Combe Martin. 

If you like a bit more ‘action’, Ilfracombe is a great town to base yourself in, with plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants to choose from. 

Highlights include seeing the Verity statue created by Damien Hirst and taking part in one of the many water-based activities on offer in the town, including a trip to Lundy Island , coasteering, a rib boat SeaSafari to see dolphins and seals (I didn’t see any when I went but it was still lovely), kayaking and paddleboarding. 

Further along the coast, you’ll find the lovely town of Woolacombe, which is a very typical and lovely British seaside town, with a gorgeous beach and amazing views and just along from Woolacombe is the great surfing beach of Putsborough Sands. 

I always remember driving from Croyde to Woolacombe one evening for a night out and being in awe by the beautiful sunset. You couldn’t tell where the sky ended and the sea began. It looked like a painting. 

I have some great memories of partying at Marisco nightclub (or as we called it, Marisco’s Disco), the UK’s oldest nightclub, but it sadly closed its doors in 2020.

Visiting Croyde Bay is top of my list of North Devon things to do.

It is my favourite place in the entire world (outside of Africa) and I’ve been visiting this beautiful village for the last 40 years. I’m showing my age now, but the first time I went I was just a few weeks old in 1980 and it’s also where I got married! I usually go 2, maybe 3 times every year – it’s my second home. 

The beach is the main attraction and it’s one of the best and most famous surfing beaches in the UK. Another big draw is the village itself which is absolutely beautiful. In the evening, many people gather at the great local pubs and restaurants which include The Thatch (try the Nacho’s), Billy Budds, the Blue Groove (best banoffi pie in Croyde and I’ve tried them all), and Hobb’s (I love their pizzas). 

I’ve written a full travel guide on the best things to so in Croyde Bay here . 

Saunton Sands

A short walk or drive away from Croyde is Saunton Sands, one of the most stunning beaches in the whole of the UK. The beach is backed by sand dunes, stretches for miles, and is popular with families, surfers, and kite surfers. It also allows dogs all year round. It was the place where Robbie Williams filmed his video for ‘Angels’.

There is a lovely walk from Croyde village over the hill to Saunton called the ‘Four Beaches Walk’. At the top, you will get amazing views over the village and the surrounding beaches. From Croyde village, take a walk up Cott Lane. After 0.2 miles you’ll come to a public footpath on the right, follow the footpath up over the hill and down to Saunton. 

A 25-minute drive away from Saunton and Croyde is Instow, a wonderful village located on an estuary, at the point where the Torridge and Taw rivers meet. The picture above is taken from Instow, overlooking the estuary towards Appledore.

One of the main draws of Instow is the Glorious Oyster Beach Cafe, a small seafood restaurant that gets rave reviews. It was closed when I was there, but my good friends who are proper foodies LOVE it! As well as oysters, they also serve mussels, Cullen skink (one of my favourite dishes from my Scottish road trip adventures ), Bajan fish cakes, posh fish fingers sandwiches (yum), scallops, and lobster.

I also really love John’s of Instow a deli and cafe which is great for breakfast and lunch. There’s also a John’s in nearby Appledore. 

Across the estuary from Instow is the quaint (I don’t like that word much, but it’s particularly apt) village of Appledore which and I’m ashamed to say that I only went for the first time in 2020 in the 40-years I’ve been going to North Devon.

Appledore is famous for its picture-postcard views, pretty pastel-coloured houses and for being the home of Hocking’s Dairy Cream Ices, a famous Devon ice cream brand. 

A trip to Appledore wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a cream tea or some fish and chips by the estuary. 

Westward Ho!

Westward Ho! is a typical British seaside holiday town, with all the usual attractions, including shops, arcades, and a beautiful sandy beach (you can see the beach in the distance on the Saunton Sands picture).

Once you’re done with building sandcastles, stop by one of the great restaurants including the Pig and Olive, Tea on the Green, Pig on the Beach, and the M’ Rock n’ Bowl.

This colourful town is the only place in the UK to have an exclamation point in its name.

Clovelly is a wonderful, unusual, and ancient fishing village situated on a 400-foot cliff. The village is privately owned and they charge an admission of £8.25 for adults and £4.80 for children aged 7 to 16, but children under 7 go free. You can also buy a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) for £22.25. Dogs on leads welcome.

It’s a steep walk down to the harbour, however, you can get a ride back up to the top in their Land Rover (extra cost) if you’re struggling. This service is only available from Easter to October. 

Ideally, I would suggest timing your visit with high tide, as it looks very different when the water is out (see above). Not to mention the scary drop from the harbour wall – which has no railings.

Clovelly is often used in films and doubled for Guernsey in the film ‘Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society’ starring Lily James.

Nearby you’ll find the awesome Loveland Farm , an incredible eco-retreat where you can stay in a fabulous eco-pod. They also have some space for camping. 

Blackchurch Rock & Mouthmill Beach

If you’re after a little hike, I’d recommend making the round trip through Brownsham Woods to Mouthmill beach, which is again on the South West Coast Path (I really need to walk this), where you’ll find the unusual rock formation of Blackchurch Rock.

Photographers like to visit at sunrise or sunset when the light illuminates Blackchurch Rock. The best place to park is the Brownsham National Trust car park. For details on how to get there, click here . 

I hope this gives you a good idea of some of the best places to visit and things to do in North Devon!

Other UK posts you might enjoy…

• Croyde Bay Guide: Where to Stay, Where to Eat & Things to Do
• 25 Beautiful Places to Visit in the Lake District
• Hiking Gatesgarth to Fleetwith Pike & Wild Swimming in Warnscale Beck
• Wild Camping in the Lake District – A Beginner’s Guide
• Glamping in the Lake District – 18 Amazing Places to Stay
• Scotland’s North Coast 500 Route, Map & 1-Week Itinerary
• 30 Things To Know Before You Drive Scotland’s NC500
• Island Hopping the Outer Hebrides in Scotland: Itinerary & Things To Do
• The Best Things to Do in Liverpool: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

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I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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Thanks for the great post.

Thank you!! 🙂

Thank you for the guide. Really nice insight. I hope to see you have completed the SW costal path!

Hi Helen. spent many a week in north Devon as a twenty something. I am pleased to say i have made it now to a 50 something. i fell in love with the place , spent a lot of time on exmoor just walking and enjoying nature. i have dreamt for years of taking my kids (now 22 and 15) to experience my favorite’ place. And today it was booked on spec , as a short break. i have visited all of the places you listed and many more. just so excited to show my kids this place. im an old man now but still hold fond memories , and hope my kids will too.

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11 Best Things to Do in North Devon

From hiking through dartmoor and fossil hunting at the valley of the rocks, to cycling the tarka trail, these are the best things to do in north devon.

When you think of Devon, you are probably thinking of rolling hills, expansive coastlines with huge waves and dramatic cliffs, farms, sheep, and of course, good ol’ Devonshire cream teas with clotted cream and jam.

If the scones alone don’t attract you to Devon, then an eclectic list of things to do in North Devon might!

Whether you’re travelling with kids, your other half or a group of friends, you’ll find there are plenty of North Devon attractions to keep you entertained.

11 Amazing Things To Do In North Devon

Explore dartmoor national park.

There are two national parks in North Devon: Exmoor and Dartmoor. If you only have time to see one of the two, then Dartmoor is the best place to visit because of its huge diversity of landscapes. From cascading waterfalls and rivers, to rocky tors and marshes, this region is filled with so much natural beauty here! To be honest, you could spend a whole week here and not be bored.

It’s easy to reach from wherever you choose to stay in North Devon. Dartmoor National Park is also famous for its myths and legends, such as the infamous Hairy Hand of Dartmoor and iconic Sherlock Holmes story, Hound of the Baskervilles. But don’t let the scary stories put you off, there’s an abundance of hiking trails to explore and rivers to kayak. It’s the kind of place that is very easy to fall in love with!

Dartmoor is also dog friendly, so if you’re planning on travelling with your furry friends, then it’s definitely a place to add to your Devon itinerary.

In the summer, it’s the perfect place for wild camping too. It’s famed for its dark skies and amazing stargazing opportunities. At night, you might even witness the milky way overhead as you fall asleep under the stars. Just watch out for the hairy hand…!

Go fossil hunting at the Valley of the Rocks

If you’re looking for free things to do in North Devon that are a little unique and unusual, then take a trip out to Valley of the Rocks for some fossil hunting!

This special spot, just a few miles west of Lynton, is one of the few places in North Devon with fossils. At Valley of the Rocks, you’ll notice a steep slope of fallen rocks, some of which contain fossils. Please note, it’s not recommended to take a hammer! Just take a stroll along the bottom of the slope and keep your eyes peeled for unique shapes and rock formations.

If you want to make this a full day activity, combine it with a walk along the South West Coast Path towards Ilfracombe and enjoy the fabulous views along the way!

Explore the Quaint Village of Clovelly

The ancient fishing village of Clovelly is the perfect place to shop for boutique souvenirs including local pottery, silk and soaps.

This unspoiled fishing village is one of the most authentic and traditional villages in North Devon. Its steep cobbled streets are lined with picturesque houses and stores all featuring traditional architecture. You can even say hello to its donkey residents while you’re there!

This tiny village has incredible views over the Bristol Channel, so be sure to wander the waterfront to take in the sights and sounds. There’s also a small harbour near the lifeboat station where you can look for crabs and small fish.

The village itself is actually privately owned (yes, the whole village!) which means there’s an entrance fee to enter. But, it’s certainly worth it to see all the well-preserved history.

Cycle the Tarka Trail

If you love a bike ride and want to take on a serious challenge, then how about the Tarka Trail? This is one of the best cycle routes in North Devon as it takes you through a variety of scenic landscapes.

The whole trail is 180 miles and goes in a figure of eight through picturesque countryside, over rugged cliffs and past pristine beaches.

It is the longest, continuous off-road cycle path in the UK, so don’t feel like you need to cycle all of it! In fact, it’s quite easy to cycle small sections of it, as the trail is well signposted throughout.

You will find sections of the trail from Barnstaple, Crow Point, Bideford, Okehampton, Eggsford, Meeth Quarry, Torrington, Ilfracombe, Instow, Braunton, Fremington Quay, and the Valley of the Rocks.

Relax on Saunton Sands Beach

If you’re visiting North Devon with your pooch, then you’ll certainly be looking for some awesome beaches that allow you to take your dog off the lead. Saunton Sands is a huge stretch of beach that’s popular for surfing, kite flying and of course dog walks!

It’s a 3.5 mile-long stretch of beach with sheltered sand dunes, which are a great place to sit and relax with a picnic lunch. You could even stay to watch the sunset.

The waves here are pretty strong, so it’s not recommended for regular swimming, though it’s ideal for longboard surfing.

Surf at Woolacombe Beach

Woolacombe Beach is one of the largest beaches in North Devon and is the perfect place to enjoy water sports such as kitesurfing and surfing. The waves here are great for surfing all year round. You’ll even see surfers braving the waves in the wet and windy winter weather!

Just around the corner from Woolacombe Beach is Barricane Beach, which is a more sheltered beach nestled between two unique rock formations. This is an ideal place to swim as the tide is weaker than on Woolacombe Beach. When the tide is out, you can hunt for sea glass in the rock pools or look for unique shells! They make nice souvenirs to take home!

Ride the Lynton to Lynmouth Cliff Railway

The Lynton to Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a multi-award winning funicular railway that has been operating since 1890. It is also the highest and the steepest water-powered railway in the world.

The journey from Lynton to Lynmouth offers striking coastal views and the grade II listed cafe at the end is the perfect stop for a Devonshire cream tea.

There are only three trains in the world like this, so it’s definitely a unique attraction in North Devon.

Visit Hartland Abbey & Gardens, Bideford

Taking a day trip to a stately home is one of the top things to do in North Devon. One of the most popular is Hartland Abbey in Bideford. This is the residential home of the Stucley family, who have lived in the home for generations.

The house was built in the 12th century and served as a monastery until it was gifted to Henry VIII’s wine cellar keeper in 1539. It has stayed in the same family ever since.

Guests can wander around the home and grounds, marvel at the antique interiors and decoration, or take a stroll around the woodland, walled gardens or parkland.

If you’re looking for some things to do in North Devon with kids, then the Nature Trail and ‘Malory Towers’ Trail nearby will keep the children entertained for hours while mum and dad can enjoy the Hartland Abbey’s tea room.

Take a walk on the wild side at Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park

Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is one of the most exciting North Devon attractions for the whole family. This engaging family-run theme park is more than just a zoo, it also has an indoor soft play area and 28 acres of spectacular gardens.

It’s most well known for its life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that will amaze your kids! You can also see many species of primates, penguins, lions and wolves at the park. This is a great place for a family day trip from any part of Devon.

Learn about boats at the North Devon Maritime Museum

If you’re looking for places to visit in North Devon when it rains (which being in the UK, you do need to plan for this weather!) then you will absolutely love spending an afternoon at North Devon Maritime Museum .

This interactive museum has working models of ships from as far back as the Viking and Medieval eras. There are also plenty of maritime artefacts, and historical exhibits to look at. It’s really is the ideal place to learn the story of how ships were made throughout the centuries. Kids will love turning the captain’s wheel and learning to tie nautical knots, as well how to navigate using old maritime instruments including a sextant.

Visit The Milky Way Adventure Park

If you’re travelling with kids, then you’ll want to make a stop by The Milky Way Adventure Park just outside Clovelly. This place has an incredible indoor play area. There are rollercoasters, arcades and wildlife too… but honestly, the indoor playground is the main attraction!

Kids can spend hours and hours playing here while mum and dad enjoy a coffee and a bit of relax time. A trip to the Milky Way Adventure Park is definitely one of the most fun things to do in North Devon with kids.

Where to stay in North Devon

If you’re looking for hotels in this area, don’t miss our guide to the best boutique and luxury hotels in Devon .

Kentisbury Grange Hotel

Located between Barnstaple and Lyton, the Kentisbury Grange Hotel is nestled in the perfect spot to get to all the best places to visit in North Devon. On top of this, it’s also a super luxurious and elegantly restored Victorian country house with spacious and cosy rooms.

This award-winning hotel also offers self-catering bungalows, for those who wish to have some homely comforts on their trip to Devon. There’s also a fine dining restaurant here, so it’s an ideal place for foodies!

Check availability & latest prices now

Saunton Sands Hotel , Braunton

For those looking for a relaxing beachside retreat, Saunton Sands Hotel in Braunton is an ideal choice. Sitting on a clifftop overlooking the Braunton Burrows, this modern luxury hotel has some of the best views in the area.

The hotel has a full spa, two swimming pools and a formal dining restaurant with a seasonal menu. Each bedroom is styled using modern and state-of-the-art furnishings, making it a real home from home.

In terms of location, there’s plenty to see in the area, including Woolacombe Beach and Westward Ho!

Wildercombe House

Looking for a place to stay near the North Devon coast? Then you’ll love this quaint bed and breakfast in Ilfracombe. Each room is spacious and airy with stylish oak furniture, a good-sized ensuite bathroom and stunning sea views.

Each morning, you can start your day with a Full English breakfast, made from locally sourced ingredients. When it comes to exploring the area, you’ll find Exmoor National Park and Barnstaple are within a 20-minute drive of the hotel. You can’t get a better location in North Devon!

Higher Biddacott Farm

This gorgeous boutique bed and breakfast in the North Devon countryside is the perfect retreat in the heart of Devon. This charming farmhouse is quaint and cheerful, with antique furnishings and a stunning garden.

It offers a delicious Full English breakfast each morning and is located in a rural setting near Umberleigh. You are just a short drive away from some of North Devon’s top attractions, including Quince Honey Farm and RHS Garden Rosemoor.

I hope this guide to the best things to do in North Devon has helped you put together a great Devon itinerary.

If you’re looking for more Devon travel inspiration, check out our guides to the best luxury hotels in Devon and what to do in Devon in the rain . We’ve also got a really fun Devon quiz designed to test your knowledge of the county!

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25+ Things to do in North Devon

By Discover More UK

Published: 29 July 2021

Last updated: 18 august 2021.

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It’s no secret that North Devon is a popular UK destination for summer getaways and seaside staycations in the UK.

So if you’re planning a trip to North Devon, use this guide to plan things to do in North Devon and the best places to visit in North Devon to suit you and your trip.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

When to visit North Devon

North Devon is a beautiful part of the UK at any time of year, but it’s definitely most popular in the summer months when you’re most likely to be able to enjoy the beaches, water sport activities and coastal walks.

Going in the shoulder seasons, in April/May or September/October will be less busy but still with a good chance of better weather and you’ll find a bigger range of accommodation availability. 

The winter months will be cheaper and quieter but the weather is far less predictable so if you’re keen to enjoy the outdoors while you’re in North Devon, then you’re better off visiting in the warmer months – unless you don’t mind a bit of rain!

Places to visit in North Devon

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Funicular railway is the steepest and highest completely water-powered railway in the world.

Enjoy the beautiful Victoria carriages and the grade II listed cafe to take in the views at the top of the railway.

The cliff railway is also a great option if you’re looking for cheap North Devon activities, tickets are just £3 for adults and £2 for children, so it’s a fun and affordable activity for the whole family.

The railway is open 10 am-5 pm all year round and you can just turn up and book at the foot of the cliff.

Glen Lyn Gorge Lynmouth

Another one of North Devon attractions to visit in Lynmouth.

The picturesque Glen Lyn Gorge was once a hazard to the village with the East Lyn River’s tendency to flood and cause flooding disasters.

Now the Gorge provides green energy in the form of hydropower to the village and the neighbouring holiday cottages are run completely off renewable energy. 

You’ll spot where the gorge is thanks to the huge fountain of water spraying into the air above the village and you’ll be visiting the UK’s first tidal current turbine.

Take a walk along the river and through the wooded ravine to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature as well as learn about the area’s role in generating renewable energy.

Ticket prices:

Adults – £6

Children – £3

Valley of Rocks

The Valley of Rocks is a stunning dry valley running along the North Devon coast, just a mile from Lynton.

The area is a must-visit for nature lovers, walkers and outdoor enthusiasts with incredible rock formations and beautiful walks in the area and along the coast here thanks to the coast path.

If you’re feeling adventurous, climb up the rocky mounts for incredible views of the coast, valley and turquoise blue waters of the sea.

The area is also known for its feral goats – so look out for them scrambling up the sides of the valley!

Visiting is free, just pay at the pay & display in the lower car park. Toilet facilities and picnic facilities are available.

One for National Trust members and enthusiasts! 

Slightly east of Lynton and Lynmouth, you’ll find National Trust Watersmeet, a lovely park and wildlife area covering 2000 acres which is perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk.

Look out for waterfalls, a river gorge and a lovely cafe to enjoy a cup of tea on your walk.

This is a beautiful place to enjoy a peaceful stroll, just check the website before visiting as the area is liable to flooding and some paths or areas may be closed.

There is a pay & display car park or there’s free parking available at Barna Barrow, Combe Park and Brendon.

Broadsands Beach

Once voted the happiest view in Britain, it’s easy to see why people compare Broadsands beach and coastal area to the beaches and views in Thailand!

Broadsands Beach is located in a secluded cove which is accessed by 200 steep steps from the coastal path – so it isn’t for the faint hearted!

The sandy beach and calm waters are perfect for enjoying some of the best family days out North Devon has to offer.

There is no designated parking for the beach, there is on-road parking on Barton Hill and Old Coast Road, where the coast path access can be found at the bottom. However the road gets extremely busy in the peak months and on warm days, so make sure to arrive early!

If 200 steps down doesn’t sound like fun, walk a little further past the beach access and you’ll reach a gate on the right, follow this path towards the sea and you’ll come to a viewpoint with a bench on your right where you can enjoy the famous ‘happiest view’ of Broadsands Beach.

Day trip to Lundy Island off the Devon coast

Lundy Island is known for its turbulent history and despite being just 3 miles long and 0.5 miles wide, the island in the Bristol Channel is one of the most popular things to do in North Devon and also a popular North Devon day trip or even overnight destination that can be reached by boat from Devon’s coast.

Between March and October, MS Oldenburg sails to Lundy from either Bideford or Ilfracombe depending on the tides. The trip takes approximately 2 hours and gives visitors the perfect opportunity to spend a day on this unique island.

Return day tickets cost:

Adult – £44

Child – £22.50

Concessions – £41

While you’re on Lundy, you can experience everything the island has to offer with its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. The island also offers birdwatching, diving, fishing, climbing and plenty of walks.

Check the Lundy Island website here for boat timetables, Lundy island activities and details of where to stay on the island if you’re considering staying overnight.

Ilfracombe 

Ilfracombe is one of the best places to visit in North Devon, thanks to its quintessential Devon seaside town atmosphere, plenty of attractions and activities, plus great restaurants and bar options to suit everyone.

Don’t miss the Ilfracombe harbour with the boats bobbing in front of the seafront shops. When the tide is out, a small beach area reveals itself which is perfect for children and young families to enjoy safely.

Grab some fish & chips from the local’s favourite Lynbay Fish & Chips on the harbour front and sit on the harbour wall to enjoy watching the boats come and go.

Take a walk up to the oldest working lighthouse in Britain, the Chapel of St Nicholas, on the mount behind the harbour – you can see it from most places in the town and visiting it is completely free with an optional donation.

There’s also plenty of family activities here including crazy golf, boat rides and family-friendly walks like Capstone Hill.

Check out this full list of things to do in Ilfracombe.

Sea Safari along the Devon coast

A great activity for families, couples and kids of any age is the amazing range of North Devon boat trips and sea safaris available from Ilfracombe harbour.

Ilfracombe Sea Safari has several options available on their website, including a half-hour sunset cruise, a 2 hour seals or dolphin tour, a coastal cruise, a smugglers cave tour or a fishing trip.

They have boat trips from Ilfracombe to suit pretty much every budget and they can be booked throughout the peak season, weather permitting. It’s a great way to experience the North Devon coast from a completely unique perspective on your trip!

Woolacombe’s long sandy beach is the perfect place to spend a relaxing beach day in North Devon. With so much beach space, cliffs and rock pools, you can have fun and enjoy the sun in the lovely seaside town of Woolacombe.

You can park at Sandy Burrows Car Park for the beach and also take a walk here along the cliff path to Morte Point for beautiful coastal views.

Woolacombe is a great central location for somewhere to stay if you’re visiting North Devon. Check out the accommodation and activities at Woolacombe Sands Holiday Park or Twitchen House Holiday Park.

Appledore is home to the North Devon Maritime Museum and also a lovely quaint waterfront.

There is also a very colourful street in Appledore, full of pastel-coloured terrace houses, head to Irsha Street to see it!

Kipling Tor

Kipling Tors is a stunning walking route above Westward Ho! The path can get steep and rocky so not good for pushchairs but it’s a lovely walk that the whole family can do.

Head up here at sunset for the perfect way to end the day with a view across the ocean.

Clovelly Village, North Devon

Clovelly is the famous privately owned fishing village at the heart of North Devon’s coast.

Without a doubt one of the best things to do in North Devon because of its completely unique history as a privately owned village, its location clinging to the cliff face and its picturesque high street.

The whole village is fully pedestrianised so you will need to park at the visitor’s centre, pay for your entry ticket and walk down the hill to the village. The walk down is steep and the high street is completely cobbled so sturdy shoes are a must.

There is a land rover service from the harbour to drive you back up the alternative route if you don’t feel like the steep walk back again!

Spend some time admiring the beautiful high street, go shopping at the local boutiques where you can find handmade Clovelly soaps, silk scarves and souvenirs.

The Red Lion down at the harbour is a great spot to enjoy a drink with a view or a spot of lunch after a walk along the harbour wall.

Don’t miss the two Clovelly museums – Kingsley Museum and Fisherman’s Cottage, both of which have plenty of information about the history of the village and how it came to be.

Check out this article for a complete guide of things to see and do in Clovelly .

Adult ticket – £8.25

Child ticket – £4.80

Family ticket – £22.25

Tickets to the village include:

• Entry to the village
• Entrance to Clovelly Court Gardens
• Visiting to the Fisherman’s Cottage and Kingsley Museum
• Audio-visual experience
• General Facilities

Blackchurch Rock

While Blackchurch Rock isn’t an easy one to get to, it’s the perfect place to go in Devon to escape the crowds.

It isn’t an easy route down, steep in places and with fairly overgrown dirt tracks, but once you arrive at the beach and walk to the Rock, it’s absolutely worth this stunning walk through nature.

Going at low tide gives you the best chance to see more of the rock and enjoy the beach area. Definitely wear sturdy shoes as it’s a pebbly beach and steep walk.

You can reach it by starting from the cliff walk at Clovelly or from further away if you want to plan a longer walk along the Southwest Coast path.

Hartland Point, Devon

Hartland Point is home to Hartland Point Lighthouse and the great news is that you can reach the viewpoint of the Lighthouse on a very short 5 minute uphill walk from the car park.

Alternatively you could include the stop on a longer walk as it’s also part of the Southwest Coast Path if you park at Hartland Quay (see below).

It’s worth bearing in mind that the roads out to Hartland Point are single track for traffic in both directions. So be aware of oncoming vehicles and large farm machinery.

The parking for the Lighthouse viewpoint is on a private farm and you’ll need to pay a fee to enter, £3 (2021).

During much of 2021 the Lighthouse has been covered in scaffolding so worth asking at the gate before paying if that’s all you’re there to see.

Speke’s Mouth Waterfall

A stunning hidden gem if you’re looking for lesser known places to go in North Devon.

Park at the Hartland Quay car park (not to be confused with the above Hardland Point car park), you will need to pay on entry and it covers your stay all day.

Once in the car park facing the sea, there’s a small cafe area below on the water’s edge. To the right up the coast is the route to Hatland Lighthouse, take the path on the left of the car park to follow the Southwest Coast path to Speke’s Mill Mouth Waterfall.

The walk from the car park to the waterfall is about a mile and shouldn’t take longer than 25-30 minutes.

There are some steep sections as well as some muddy fields so wear suitable shoes.

Once you reach the waterfall, there’s an amazing vantage point for photos. You can also walk to the top of the mouth and there’s also access to the waterfall’s pools below if you’re looking to do some wild swimming in North Devon.

Southwest coast path in North Devon

The Southwest Coast Path is the longest continuous walking path in the UK and covers the entire southwest coastline.

From many of the things to do on this list, you can already tell what a significant part of the local and tourist industry this walking route plays.

Regardless of where you’re staying in North Devon and whether you’re an avid walker or not, the Southwest Coast Path is never far away. It’s well worth doing even just a short walk to enjoy its natural beauty and scenery.

We’re lucky to have such a beautiful and free walking route in the UK, so don’t miss this if you’re planning free things to do in North Devon.

Westward Ho!

Did you know that Westward Ho! is the only place in the UK with an exclamation point in its name?

Westward Ho! Is a cute seaside town that makes a great base for travelling the length of the North Devon coast.

There are holiday parks for families, a great surfing beach, a beachfront amusement area, great fish & chips and quaint colourful houses.

Take a walk along Golf Links Road to see the most vibrant row of houses! Then grab some fish & chips from Atlantic Bay and tuck into them on the seawall.

The walk along the beach road is beautiful, especially in the evening or the walk to Kipling Tors for sunset.

Explore North Devon by bike

If lots of walking isn’t your thing, exploring North Devon by bike is a great option to still get outside and enjoy North Devon’s nature.

You could take your own bike on your trip. Alternatively hire a bike from somewhere like Bideford Cycle Hire where you can hire a bike for half a day from £10 or a full day from £13.

They have plenty of information and route tips on their website or you can check out North Devon cycle trails.

Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is perfect if you’re looking for things to do in North Devon in the rain.

The museum is also another great option if you’re looking for free things to do in North Devon on a budget because admission to the museum is free.

It’s a great place to learn about the specific history of North Devon and discover ancient pottery, natural history and artefacts all relating to North Devon.

National Trust Arlington Court

The National Trust Arlington Court is also home to the Carriage Museum while the grounds itself are full of over 20 miles of lakeside footpaths and nature walks, as well as plenty of wildlife to spot.

You can also visit the Victorian Gardens of the Regency era house and admire the stunning collections in the museum.

The estate sits on the edge of Exmoor and has been owned by the same family for over 500 years. There’s fascinating collections and artefacts to explore in the surprisingly inviting interior of the house and museum.

Watermouth Castle

Watermouth Castle is a weird and wonderful place, perfect for family days out in North Devon.

The Victorian Castle and Gardens are full of strange and interesting collections and are open to explore but the estate also consists of a theme park, children’s rides and play areas

The weird mix of history and curios with a theme park and play areas means the attraction is ideal for things to do in North Devon with kids.

Entry prices:

Adults – £15.50

Children under 92cm – Free.

SUP or Kayak hire at Combe Martin Beaches

If you’re a fan of adventure travel and activities, the calm waters of Combe Martins beaches and bay are perfect for a spot of watersport activities.

The Surfside Kayak Hire is on the main road right by the waterfront on Combe Martin. They were one of the finalists for the Devon Tourism Board Tourism Awards in 2020.

They offer kayaking tours if you’d prefer to be guided with a group, or you can hire their rental equipment like kayaks, SUPs and fishing tackle.

Check out their website for more information and the latest prices.

Pack O’Cards Inn Combe Martin

A must-visit tourist stop while you’re in Combe Martin!

This weird and wonderful pub and hotel not only looks like a pack of cards, but is also card themed!

With a large outdoor area, BBQ space and situated right by the river, this is a quirky and unique stop for a beverage or two to add to your North Devon itinerary!

RHS Garden Rosemoor

If you’re a keen gardener or green-fingered enthusiast, don’t miss the beautiful RHS garden at Rosemoor.

The huge 8 acre garden and 32 acres of pasture were donated to the RHS in 1988 by Lady Anne Berry and have been cultivated into the beautiful gardens you can see today.

You could easily spend an entire day here exploring the pathways and admiring the stunning horticulture on display across the property.

RHS members – Free

Adults – £12.15

Children – £6.10

The BIG Sheep – perfect for families

If you’re looking for the best things to do in North Devon with kids, make sure to add the BIG Sheep theme park to your list.

The animal-themed amusement park is located just outside of Bideford and is suited to young children and their families although there are teen attractions available too.

There are activities like sheep racing and lamb feeding as well as softer rides for very young children and lots of all-weather attractions and green open spaces to take a picnic on the day too!

Adults – £14.95

Children – £14.95

Children under 3ft – £6

Babies – £2

There are also reduced prices for activity specific entry tickets.

Summary: Things to do in North Devon 

This list of North Devon places to visit and North Devon attractions is ideal to select your preferred types of activities from and use them to build the ideal itinerary for your North Devon trip. Hopefully it gives you some inspiration for the best places to visit in North Devon and the amazing amount of things there is to see and do.

Pin this to save it for later to help you plan your future trip!

2 thoughts on “25+ Things to do in North Devon”

This brought back some great memories of living in England & visiting Devon! It’s such a lovely place & such a pretty coastline! Thanks so much for sharing!

I was hoping to make it down to this part of the country over the summer but never managed to, which is a shame because it looks stunning! There is a lot of stunning scenery here that I’d love to see in person.

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The ultimate guide to North Devon

With a sublime mixture of stunning coastline and rugged countryside, North Devon is the ultimate destination for a UK break. Enjoy a slower pace of life wandering through its quaint villages, action-packed adventures on the world-class surfing beaches, and an array of delicious foods found on every corner - not forgetting a freshly-baked scone - served the Devon way of course! It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling as a couple, a family or with multiple generations, there’s plenty to please everyone within this little gem of a holiday destination.

If you’re thinking about holidaying in North Devon , here’s near enough everything you’ll need to know before you go…

Things to do in North Devon

There are so many things to do in North Devon , from the perfectly picturesque walks and an array of water sports to Michelin-star dining experiences , incredible ice creams and plenty of vegan eateries too.

One of North Devon’s biggest draws is, of course, the glorious golden sandy beaches that line the coast. To get the low-down on the best spots for surfing , families and where to witness the natural beauty of this spectacular stretch of coast, these are our most recommended beaches in North Devon – all personally tried, tested and verified by us. If you’re heading on holiday with your four-legged friend, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are more than 20 dog-friendly beaches all year round, and more than 25 with seasonal bans in place. For those in search of lesser-known coves where you can enjoy the serenity of the sea in peace, you’ll definitely want to read our secret North Devon beach guide .

Adrenaline junkies should head to The Ultimate Adventure Centre to take on a Total Wipeout-style course, or the Milky Way is another fantastic option, especially with the kids. The array of family-friendly attractions and activity centres in the local area will have them thinking this is their best holiday EVER.

For those embarking on a romantic trip, why not take to the old fashioned 2p machines in Woolacombe arcades, enjoy a leisurely bike ride on the Tarka Trail or snuggle up on the beach at Croyde Deckchair Cinema?

Your biggest challenge on a stay in North Devon won’t be finding things to do but narrowing it down to fit into your break. We’ve pulled together a list featuring the best of the best in the area to help you to plan, so take a look at our ultimate summer bucket list: the Devon edition for inspiration.

Where to visit in North Devon

Each town and village in North Devon has its own unique charm and personality, so it’s worth staying in one that matches your needs. These are the places we’d recommend visiting on your stay. It might be a little tricky to squeeze them all into one week (we’d love to see you try) but most of these areas aren’t too far apart, so you have plenty to explore without wasting too much time travelling!

The quaint fishing village of Appledore welcomes visitors to explore the winding cobbled walkways, taking in the beauty of the pastel-lined streets and indulging in the seaside pleasures of the coastal stop. A haven for foodies and art lovers, this is a great location for couples and families alike.

We’d recommend staying at:

• Coastal Cottage , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• The Gables , sleeps 4
• Fairways , sleeps 8 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: Make a trip to John's of Appledore for an incredible gin cream tea - served with raspberry gin jam and a pink gin and tonic!

Steeped in history and a lively town known as North Devon’s ‘capital’, Barnstaple is a great base from which to explore the surrounding area, with good transport links and lots of fantastic bars and restaurants. Head to the Pannier Market for local foods and trinkets, the Queens Theatre for entertainment and the trampoline park of Air Extreme for a full-body workout.

• The Watchtower , sleeps 2
• The Cider Barn , sleeps 4 + 3 dogs
• The Old School House , sleeps 10

Local's tip: Visit Butcher's Row for amazing baked treats, the most incredible range of cafes, specialist beer shops and a nook dedicated to all things chilli!

The ‘Little White Town’ of Bideford is a thriving port with plenty of points of interest. Discover the olde-worlde Pannier Market, the creative galleries and array of pubs and restaurants, or venture slightly further afield to the beaches of Westward Ho! and Appledore for a more coastal experience.

• Tarka View , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• Seagrass , sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
• Beacon House , sleeps 12 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: Head to Victoria Park to escape the busy town and you'll find a paddling pool perfect for the kids, and a Hocking's van serving up Devon's best ice cream.

The quiet village of Braunton is a great place to base yourself if you want to enjoy the small-town vibe with independent boutiques and quirky cafes, whilst making the most of the gorgeous coastline and the busy town of Barnstaple.

• The Old Stables , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• Southlands Retreat , sleeps 5 + 2 dogs
• Folly Farm East , sleeps 8 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: There are some fantastic Geocaching trails in and around Braunton, especially the figure of eight that starts and ends at Heanton Punchardon.

Clovelly is one of the most unique places in the whole of Devon. It’s traffic-free streets and fishing heritage come together to create its character. The privately-owned village is certainly worth a visit whether you choose to stay or just visit for a day.  

• Elm Cottage , sleeps 2
• Highford Barn , sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
• Clovelly Lakes Sky Lark Lodge Seven , sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: Be sure to visit The Clovelly Soap Company for incredibly scented, handcrafted products!

Combe Martin

Combe Martin is a stunning village located on the North Devon coast and is an ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. Here you’ll find total relaxation within chocolate box cottages, quaint beachside cafes and independent shops, alongside some of the most magical walks in the region.

• Water Lane , sleeps 5 + 3 dogs
• Gulls Way , sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: Walk the 200+ steps from the road to Broadsands Beach, otherwise known as "Little Thailand" to see it's hidden beauty, which was voted "Britain's Happiest View" in 2018.

The surfing mecca of Croyde is a vibrant village that oozes ‘cool’. Head to the much-loved local pubs for the famous ‘Thatch nachos’, the ice cream parlour for local delights and the beaches for endless entertainment throughout the year – including a number of fantastic festivals!

• Bullocks , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• The Cow Shed , sleeps 4 + 4 dogs
• Dunes at West Croyde , sleeps 8 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: The locally famous entrepreneur who started his pizza business on the beach, Stoned, often hosts pop-up events by Croyde Village Stores during the summer months.

Ilfracombe is great if you’re looking to enjoy a sea excursion, with plenty of opportunities to head on a sea safari or the MS Oldenberg over to Lundy ! For foodies, there are several restaurants, art lovers can marvel at Damien Hirst’s Verity and families will love the beaches and exciting events that take place throughout the year.

• Smuggler’s Cove , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• Cheyne Apartment , sleeps 4
• St James Villa , sleeps 11 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: Head to Watermouth Cove for some of the best water sport opportunities - the paddleboarding here is particularly spectacular.   

Instow is a pretty village perfect for living life in the slow lane. Enjoy some of Devon’s finest foods at the local deli and ice cream van before hopping on your bike for a tour of the Tarka Trail; or step aboard the little ferry and enjoy a short trip across the estuary to visit the beauty of Appledore.

• Quay Close Cottage , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• Heathersett , sleeps 6
• Caynham , sleeps 10 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: Pick up a picnic from John's of Instow of your choice, whether you opt for a fine crab platter, a selection of deli delights or to pick your own from inside the shop and they'll provide you with a cooling wicker hamper for your trip.

Lynton/Lynmouth

Base yourself on the northern edge of Exmoor and get to know the twin resorts known as ‘Little Switzerland’. The scenery is dramatically stunning where the moorland meets the sea at the rugged valley of the rocks and in the harbour, so you’ll not be short on things to see!

• 28 Watersmeet , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• Beacon Down , sleeps 6
• Lynhurst , sleeps 22 + 2 dogs

Local's tip: If you can brave the walk to the bottom of Valley of the Rocks, we'd recommend visiting Wringcliff Bay, a beautiful hidden cove that you'll usually have all to yourself.

If you want to visit the beauty of Woolacombe but wish to stay somewhere a little quieter, Mortehoe is the perfect destination. A great little holiday spot in its own right, this village offers a number of breathtaking coastal walks, quiet beaches and fantastic pubs and cafes to fuel your adventures.

• Morte View , sleeps 2
• Surf's Up , sleeps 6
• Cotfield House , sleeps 10

Local's tip: The local fish and chip shop, Mor Fish T Eat, not only offer freshly cooked fish, but also lobsters and other tasty fish treats for you to take home and pop on the BBQ!

South Molton

Enjoy the perfect balance of coast and countryside from South Molton, with Exmoor right on your doorstep, along with a historic market town and easy access to some of North Devon’s most beautiful beaches.

• Cherry View , sleeps 2
• North Gate Stable , sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
• Hilltown Farm – Rooks Nest , sleeps 6 + 4 dogs

Local's tip: Enjoy one of the best breakfasts in the area at The Log Cabin Diner, where not a single calorie is spared in making your food as tasty as can be.

Westward Ho!

With all the charm of a Victorian coastal resort; seafront gift shops, vibrant arcades and a golden sandy beach; paired with the modern cottages, a golf course and plenty of places to dine on fine local foods!

• Potbelly , sleeps 2
• Westward Waterside , sleeps 4
• No. 36 by the beach , sleeps 6

Local's tip: Make sure you visit Pizza on the Pebbles after spending the day in the amusements for delicious wood-fired dough.

When it comes to beachside breaks, Woolacombe is one of the best destinations you’ll find in the UK. The beach itself is stunning, as are the nearby coves of Barricane and Combesgate. Surfers and water sport enthusiasts will be in their element, and the flat stretch of sand is ideal for families to spend their days.

• Morte View , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• The Horseshoe , sleeps 4
• Serendipity of Woolacombe , sleeps 6

Local's tip: During the summer months, there's a shipping container that's air lifted onto Barricane Beach (just a little further down from Woolacombe Bay) that serves up cafe food by day and Sri Lanken curry by night with a BYOB policy.

Ready to book your escape to the rugged coast of North Devon ? Take a look at our full collection of cottages in the area and find your ultimate retreat!

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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10 Best Things To Do In North Devon, England

Devon is a pretty incredible area of England to explore. It’s one of those counties that’s sometimes bypassed in lieu of its big sister Cornwall , but definitely shouldn’t be. Honestly, there are just so many amazing reasons to visit and some of the best things to do in North Devon definitely shouldn’t be missed.

In the past, we’d travelled down to the beautiful spots in Cornwall (even driving through Devon), and visited the nearby Jurassic Coast but we’d never actually spent a few days exploring Devon itself. It was already familiar territory but (despite grand plans… and a whole lot of local recommendations), we hadn’t visited ‘properly’ and that’s why we chose to head over to North Devon on our trip around the county.

This is one of the reasons I wanted to show you some of the best things to do in North Devon.

Honestly, it’s one of those places that you just can’t miss when you visit England (or, indeed, if you already call England home and haven’t been yet).

1.) Become a beekeeper for a day

One of the best things to do in North Devon has to involve becoming a bee-keeper for the day. For me, this was something I was totally excited about, especially as I kinda guessed we’d get to properly guzzle on some of that honey!

After getting kitted up at Quince Honey Farm , you can actually go ahead and have a private (or group) beekeeping session that’s really fun. Thankfully, the gear stops you from getting stung, though the bees seemed really placid and totally calm if I’m honest.

Once you’re next to the hives, the gang at Quince Honey Farm tell you all about the bees, how they make honey and you’ll even get to search for the queen… which we found!

Afterwards, pop into their cafe and have one of their scones with a twist. They make the tastiest  freshly-baked scones, clotted cream and instead of jam you can actually have the honey from the bees themselves. Honestly, I ate far too much but left totally satisfied. 

Read more: How to be a beekeeper in Devon

2.) Explore Exmoor National Park

Designated a national park, way back in 1954, Exploring Exmoor is definitely up there as one of the best things to do in North Devon. Now, the thing that makes Exmoor so unique is its long history, deer and gorgeous landscapes.

Now, there’s ample opportunity to spot the deer in Exmoor by heading out on a guided landrover tour. We headed out with Andrew from Red Stag Safari (which you can see in our post, here ) who explained everything about the deer that we saw, the history of the park and even the wild ponies we spotted.

Oh, and don’t forget to visit Tarr Steps. There’s been a history of humans living in Exmoor since Mesolithic times, with the steps (over the river) being over 3,000 years old!

Read more: What to do in Exmoor National Park

3.) See the Valley of the Rocks

Perched around 1-2km from the village of Lynton, the Valley of the Rocks is a dramatic place to see in North Devon. Not only that, it has a pretty unique history that makes this one of the best things to do in North Devon during your trip.

You see, the Valley of the Rocks was formed many thousands of years ago during the last Ice Age. North Devon was at the very edge of and limit of the glaciers moving south from the northern hemisphere. This, along with the erosion from the frosty weather, led to these incredible formations that make this coastline totally unique.

Take a wander around late afternoon and watch the sunset over the valley and cliffs. Oh, and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the feral goats… they’re actually pretty cute!

Read more: Exploring the Valley of the Rocks

4) Explore Dunster

Just across the border (in Somerset), about 20-miles away, is the gorgeous village of Dunster . Now, I know it’s not Devon, but it’s just so close that it’s well worth visiting during your trip to this region. And truth be told, you’ll be dipping in and out of Somerset quite a bit when exploring Exmoor National Park.

After driving over to Dunster, take a look around the historic Anglo-Saxon settlement, spot Dunster Castle and head over to  Reeves Resturant that make some of the yummiest food in the region. Oh, and make sure to leave some room for their cocktails… they’re delicious!

Read more: Our time visiting Dunster

5.) Sleep in your own dome

For a unique place to stay, and easily one of the best things to do in North Devon, make sure to check into Loveland Farm. They have the coolest cabins and domes to stay in which was totally amazing and unique( see in our post here ).

Once you’ve checked in, said hi to the resident sheep, you’re whisked off to your very own pod, equipped with its own cabin, deck chairs and plenty of nooks to relax in. Better still, when you stay here you can arrange for Loveland to bring you over a proper British roast right to your dome… which we did immediately.

It’s so much fun and the pods are amazing to watch the stars twinkling above.

See more: Our stay in the dome at Loveland Farm

6.) Stroll around Ilfracombe

Nestled on the hilly North Devon coastline, Ilfracombe is a gorgeous seaside town to explore whilst in the area. Once you’re here, make sure to explore St Nicholas’s Chapel (on Lantern Hill), see the iconic Damien Hirst statue called ‘Verity’ (that towers over the harbour) and head out onto a guided coasteering adventure.

The whole town is actually really lovely and a great place to stop for a chilled afternoon. That being said, if you do decide on coasteering, you’ll be in for the biggest adrenaline rush!

Oh, and make sure to buy a stick of rock! You can’t go to the seaside in the UK without one!

Read more: What to do in Ilfracombe

7.) Ride the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

I’m never quite sure Lynton and Lynmouth are a big village or a small town? whatever the case, it’s a place you should definitely stop off in during your visit to North Devon.

Now, you might be confused as to why there are two names for what seems to be the same place? Well, although they’re almost the same place, Lynmouth is actually perched at the mouth of the River Lyn. Whereas, Lynton has perched high above, across the cliffs overlooking the area.

Once you’re here, make sure to take the water-powered Cliff Railway that connects both places and has been running since 1890! We started off in Lynmouth and took the railway up to Lynton which was so nice. You can even see views across to Wales from here.

Read more: Going on the cliff railway in Lynton and Lynmouth

8.) Find Hartland Abbey

Exploring Hartland Abbey and Gardens is a gorgeous spot to visit and one of the best things to do in North Devon. Built all the way back in the 12th century, it’s a stunning estate that’s filled with some impressive gardens and rooms you can explore.

Still a family home to this day, it’s a really unique and totally gorgeous estate that’s well worth popping into during your drive across North Devon.

See more: Our visit to Hartland Abbey 

9.) Gorge on all the food

One thing you can’t forget when in North Devon is to gorge on all the delicious food in the region! Honestly, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Once you’re here, make sure to visit Nelly May’s Parlour (in Ilfracombe) for one of the cutest afternoon teas in Devon. If you fancy a Michelin Starred dining experience, pop over to Thomas Carr at The Olive Room which creates some of the tastiest dishes.

Oh, and don’t forget  Barricane Beach Cafe too! It’s nothing fancy but a totally celebrated spot in North Devon and a great place to grab a curry supper whilst the sunsets. Just remember to take cash as they don’t accept cards.

10.) Hop on a boat to explore the coast

If you fancy a break from driving, hop on one of the small boats that head out of Ilfracombe and explore the coastline around Brandy Cove, Breakneck Point and Smuggler’s Cove.

Oh, and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the locals! There are loads of seals, dolphins and porpoises that call this area home. If you’re really lucky, you might even see sunfish (though, these are very rare).

Read more from our trip to Devon, below

The Absolutely Dramatic Coastline Of Devon, England

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Places to visit in North Devon – Three North Devon road trip itineraries [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 15th August 2021 | Updated: 21st November 2023

We all know the British love a beach holiday, and with the stunning North Devon coastline it is easy to see why! Golden expanses of sand, great surfing and fish and chips in every place you drive through, why would you not want to visit?

Well with all the places to visit in North Devon , it can be tricky to work out where to go, luckily that’s where we come in! We’ve visited North Devon nearly every one of the last 10 years, (and I, Gemma, spent the whole summers there each year as a child), so we know a thing or two about where to go. So that’s where our favourite three North Devon road trip itineraries come in.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary One – Putsborough / Croyde

📍 Putsborough to Morthoe

📍 The Tarka Trail & Braunton Burrows

📍 Croyde & Baggy Point

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Two – Watermouth

📍 Watermouth to Combe Martin

📍 Watermouth to Ilfracombe

📍 Woolacombe

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Three – Exmoor National Park

📍 Watersmeet, Lynton, Lynmouth & Valley of the Rocks

📍 Porlock & Porlock Weir

📍 Selworthy & the Holnicote Estate

You can of course add these itineraries together and make more of a longer North Devon road trip itinerary, (which we would highly recommend!).

Table of Contents

• Three North Devon Road Trip Itineraries Map
• North Devon Road Trip Itinerary One – Putsborough / Croyde
• North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Two – Watermouth
• North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Three – Exmoor National Park
• Places to visit in North Devon – Three North Devon Road Trip Itineraries FAQs

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Travel Insurance: We recommend World Nomads

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

Map of places to visit in North Devon

Places to visit in North Devon – Three North Devon road trip itineraries

One of our favourite places to visit in North Devon is the sandy shorelines around Putsborough, Croyde and Saunton Sands. We come back year after year for the famous fish and chips, incredible sunsets and stunning coastline and never leave disappointed. Plus, the beaches around here are perfect for getting in the sea after a nice walk.

For this three day road trip itinerary in North Devon, stay at Combas Farm . Not only are there multiple fields to pick from, (and one with a rather good view over Croyde and Putsborough), but it is within an easy walk to both places too. (You’ll often find surfers checking out the surf at both beaches from the hill before walking to whichever one is looking better that day!).

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary One – Putsborough / Croyde: Day 1 – Putsborough to Morthoe

Just over 8 miles long, this route follows the South West Coast Path from Putsborough Sands to Morte Point and back again. It takes in Marine Drive and Woolacombe Warren on the way there and Woolacombe Beach on the way back, perfect for taking a refreshing post-hike dip!

Starting off at Putsborough Sands , head out along the coast path up towards Woolacombe Down through sheep fields and gorse groves. Once you reach the bottom of the down continue along the track that leads out to the end of Marine Drive . Follow Marine Drive all the way to the big sand dunes outside of Woolacombe, (i.e. Woolacombe Warren ), then wander your way through them coming out on the road into Woolacombe.

If you fancy it have a wander through Woolacombe , stopping to grab an ice cream or some fudge, then continue around the coastline away from the crowds and past the lesser-known beaches of Barricane Beach and Grunta Beach. After reaching a small community garden follow the road up the hill before bearing left along the coast path just past the end of the buildings but before you reach Morthoe.

Now just follow the footpaths to what looks like the moon! After reaching the end of Morte Point continue along the coast path up into the village of Morthoe where you will find a row of colourful houses and the point in which you followed the coast path out to the point. From here simply retrace your steps back to Woolcombe before hitting up the beach and walking back with sandy toes and feet dabbling in the sea.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary One – Putsborough / Croyde: Day 2 – The Tarka Trail & Braunton Burrows

Day two, and one of many people’s favourites places to visit in Devon, is the famous Tarka Trail . You can follow the Tarka Trail north of south from Barnstaple , but we would highly recommend starting out in Barnstaple at Tarka Bikes then cycling south along the River Torridge and River Taw through the village of Instow to Bideford . With beautiful scenery to cycle through, and an easy trail to follow it makes for a lovely day out in North Devon.

From Bideford, you can continue on the Tarka Trail further south or do as we did for the day trip and head back the way you came. It’s 32km to Bideford and back from Barnstaple, so fairly easy to do in a day, even with a long pub lunch stop in Instow marvelling at the colourful Appledore across the water!

On the way back from Barnstaple, be sure to drive through Braunton and grab a fish and chips to go from Squires . Not only are they the best fish and chips in North Devon, but the curry sauce is to die for! Then either head up to one of the Saunton Sands viewpoints along the roadside to stop and eat, or park up at Braunton Burrows and eat there before going for a little sand dune explore.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary One – Putsborough / Croyde: Day 3 – Croyde & Baggy Point

This is the one walk we do time and time again when we visit North Devon, and it is easy to see why. Incredible coastal views, easy tracks to follow and incredible beaches at either end. What more could you want!

You can do this 5 mile route in either direction but we would recommend starting on Baggy Point at Putsborough and walking the headland around to Croyde. Nothing beats finishing the route in Croyde with a stop in the Blue Groove or with ice cream from the local ice cream parlour.

Starting and / or ending in either Putsborough Sands or Croyde also means it’s the perfect place to get in the sea before or after the Baggy Point walk. Not only are both locations great for surfing, bodyboarding, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding, but Croyde is renowned for being a great place to go coasteering too. (Make sure you do this with a tour guide however as it can be dangerous in the wrong condition).

The route itself is really easy to follow, simply get on the South West Coast path at either location then follow it around the coastline! Be sure to find and climb the waymarker pole , that was originally used for training for sea rescues, and walk down to the very end of Baggy Point for views out to Lundy and beyond. On a clear day, you can even see Wales from here.

Planning your own trip to North Devon?  Make sure you check out our Travelling Tedaldi Amazon Store Travel Guides for all your guidebooks and maps. (We’ve done the hard work for you and linked all the things we used to plan our trip!)

Out of all the places to visit in North Devon, what better place is there for a camping trip than Watermouth? With most visitors opting to go further down the coast, this area of North Devon is quite quiet in comparison. However, with numerous coastal trails to follow and a hidden beach or two to find, a long weekend around Watermouth is wonderful.

Stay at Little Meadow Campsite for this weekend. With fresh pastries baked on-site each morning and some of the most incredible views of the coastline, it is a wonderful place to call home for a few days.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Two – Watermouth: Day 1 – Watermouth to Combe Martin

Start the day off at Storm in a Teacup café in Watermouth Bay for a cup of tea and some delicious homemade apricot flapjack. It is located only a short walk from the campsite in the quaint little bay of Watermouth , the perfect location to fuel up for the walking ahead. The footpaths around the bay out to Sexton’s Burrows are rather lovely to explore, with old turret buildings to find and some of the most wonderful views out over the surrounding coastline.

After getting your fill here though it is time to hit up the South West Coast Path to the east around the headland to Combe Martin. This walk is only 3 miles each direction, so roughly an hour, but boy does it deliver in terms of views! Passing some of the more scenic bays you will find in North Devon, such as Broadsands Beach , this walk up and around the coast is not only lovely to do but also relatively quiet.

After passing through woodlands and past a quirky house or two, (you’ll know the one we mean when you get there!), you will find yourself walking down to Newberry Beach just around the corner from Combe Martin. After a steep section of stairs down it’s only a short walk to this pebble beach that is often much quieter than the next-door Combe Martin , but just as lovely. Just around the corner lies Combe Martin where you can grab yourself a bite to eat, have a dip in the sea, watch the sea mist roll in and then turn tail and head back the way you came. You could even continue along the South West Coast Path from here too.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Two – Watermouth: Day 2 – Watermouth to Ilfracombe

Begin the day with some fresh croissants from the campsite before heading off along the South West Coast Path but this time to the west and towards Ilfracombe . Ilfracombe is often high on peoples lists of places to visit in North Devon, with its art scene, numerous typical seaside entertainment and quaint harbour, but very few actually walk into it.

From Watermouth to Hele Bay to Ilfracombe, the scenery just gets better and better, through bluebell filled woodlands, to open cliffside footpaths, to hidden viewpoints. In particular, the views from Hele Bay all the way across the coastline to Ilfracombe are astounding. We had a day where the sea mist kept rolling in and it made it even more beautiful.

After glimpsing Damien Hurst’s Verity , you will soon be on the long, but beautiful walk down into the harbour at Ilfracombe via Rapparee Cove with its hidden shipwreck. Upon reaching Ilfracombe be sure to make a beeline for some of the best fudge in town, Roly’s Fudge on the Quay, it is a must-stop after a long days walk along the coastal paths. Then walk up around the hill to the Chapel of St Nicholas overlooking the bay, before following the coast along to Capstone Hill with its expansive views over the entire town.

All in all, the walk is 4.5 miles, 2 hours ish each way and really easy to follow. With a couple of places along the route, you could stop for refreshments and Hele Bay if you fancy a dip, this walk is one that can take you from high up on the cliffs, through bluebell woodland, to the seashore and back again in the space of a mile!

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Two – Watermouth:  Day 3 – Woolacombe

For the final day of the North Devon itinerary around Watermouth make the short trip, this time by road, down the coast to Woolacombe . Perfect for a last-minute dip in the sea on some golden sands, Woolacombe is a stunning beach to visit even if the weather isn’t playing ball! Park up along Marine Drive , as far along as you fancy, (the further away from Woolacombe you are the more beach you are likely to get to yourself) and make a relaxed day of it. Take a picnic, enjoy the sand dunes and get in the sea!

If the weather really isn’t having it, (it is the UK, it is bound to rain at some point), then Woolacombe has a traditional arcade with all the typical seaside games in it to keep you entertained. Plus, it’s not far from one of the best ice cream and pasty shops for miles around…

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Three – Exmoor

Partly in North Devon and partly in Somerset this long weekend is high on our places to visit in North Devon list. Exmoor National Park is an area like no other in England. With coastal walks, quaint villages in hidden valleys and beacon upon beacon to catch a good view, you should really visit Exmoor.

Stay at Burrowhayes Farm for the perfect location to gaze at the famous dark skies, walk into the nearby village of Porlock or take a horse out on a ride across the Exmoor landscape.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Three – Exmoor: Day 1 – Watersmeet, Lynton, Lynmouth & Valley of the Rocks

Day one and we are starting off the long weekend with a walk through some of the most picturesque landscapes in all of Exmoor, from Watersmeet to the Valley of the Rocks. Beginning in Watersmeet park up at the roadside before heading down deep into the surrounding woodland to the river’s edge. From here follow the river east, through the beautiful ancient woodland, (which is even more beautiful in the autumn), and all the way out to the sea via the tiny harbour village of Lynmouth .

After grabbing a bite to eat from one of the local bakeries in Lynmouth it’s time to take the Funicular Cliff Railway up the cliffside to Lynton. As one of the oldest and steepest funicular railways in Europe, it is well worth a ride on, and the views from the top are incredible! After wandering around Lynton set out along the South West Coast Path to the famous Valley of the Rocks.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the local goats along this stretch of coastline, you won’t believe where you might spot them! Upon reaching the Valley of the Rocks and having had a good wander around, simple retrace your steps all the way back to Watersmeet. We opted to walk down underneath the Funicular Cliff Railway and along the opposite side of the river to mix it up a bit.

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Three – Exmoor: Day 2 – Porlock & Porlock Weir

Day two of our places to visit in North Devon Exmoor itinerary, and we are actually stepping into the Somerset side of Exmoor, heading out on foot from the campsite to walk the Porlock to Porlock Weir loop. It is a relatively easy walk that starts off through the village of Porlock taking in all the independent village shops, and of course, stopping for a scone at the Whortleberry Tearooms , (they make local whortleberry jam and it is delicious!).

The walk then continues out from Porlock along the Coleridge Way through beautiful woodland before reaching the coast and the small port otherwise known as Porlock Weir. After getting your fill of fresh Porlock oysters follow the South West Coast Path back along the coastline rather than through the woodland, taking in the Porlock Salt Marsh with its expansive shingle ridge, petrified forest and wooden boardwalks. Then settle in for the night and keep an eye on the stars!

North Devon Road Trip Itinerary Three – Exmoor: Day 3 – Selworthy & the Holnicote Estate

For day three on the Exmoor weekend itinerary, we head to the 12,000 acres of Holnicote Estate and the quaint village of Selworthy with its picturesque surrounding walks. Again, this is actually in Somerset not North Devon but the entire stretch of coastline from the very south of North Devon to Exmoor is all worth exploring!

Begin at Selworthy Church, with views over the surrounding landscape, before bearing left and heading up into the Selworthy Combe woodland near the entrance to Selworthy village. Follow the footpaths up on this circular walk to Selworthy Beacon and Bossington Hill . From the top on a clear day, (which we did not have!), you can supposedly see all along the Exmoor and North Devon coastline for miles in each direction.

On the way back down, make sure you peer in at the Memorial Hut to Sir Thomas Dyke and the Bury Castle remains (if you can find them). At the bottom of the woodland, back near your starting point, bear right and stop by the quaint, and very yellow, village of Selworthy. In particular, make sure you go by the Periwinkle Tea Rooms for a refuel after all that walking and try the lemon curd scones and the tomato and basil scones, both are delicious!

Where to stay in North Devon?

Anywhere along the coast with a good view, there are very few places that you wouldn’t want to stay. We’ve stayed in numerous places over the years but keep coming back to Putsborough Sands , Croyde and Watermouth purely because of the access to not only the surrounding beaches but the coast paths through North Devon too.

Places to visit in North Devon FAQs

Is north devon worth visiting.

Yes! We’ve been visiting every year for over 10 years now and still haven’t gotten bored of the place. There is just so much on offer to do and see throughout the region you simply have to visit. Who doesn’t love a fish and chip tea at the seaside?

Where is North Devon located?

North Devon is situated in the southwest of England, between Somerset and Cornwall. Starting in the east at Lynmouth in Exmoor and stretching 50 miles to just past Hartland Point in the west, this area is vast and full of beautiful landscapes. So much so an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers over 170 square kilometres of the area.

How to get to North Devon

The easiest way to get to North Devon is via road, the M5 and A361 from the north and east, or the A39 from the south. Public transport is limited throughout the area, with Barnstaple having the last train station for North Devon and local buses that are few and far between. There are no airports in North Devon, however, the closest airport that serves Devon (and Cornwall), is Exeter Airport. Plymouth, Newquay and Bristol airports are the other nearest airports to North Devon.

How to get around North Devon

Getting around North Devon can be tricky if you don’t have access to a vehicle. There is very limited public transport, trains are pretty much non-existent once out of Barnstaple, and buses are few and far between other than to the main tourist towns like Croyde and Ilfracombe. So if you want to get out to the lesser-known locations or other places, like in our North Devon itineraries below, then it is best to opt for driving yourself instead.

Is it easy to drive around North Devon?

Between major towns, most of the roads are your typical British two-laned type, however, once you venture away from these main roads you will be driving along single-track lanes with passing places to allow traffic from both directions to pass each other. If you’re not a confident driver, (and especially if you aren’t a confident reverser!), then maybe steer clear of driving these lanes. We’ve been driving them for years so have no problem with them, but you can tell the people who aren’t…

Where to stop on the way to Devon

If coming from the north or east of England be sure to stop in the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or in Exmoor National Park, both are full to the brim with quaint villages and beautiful walks. If coming from the south be sure to stop along the Hartland Devon Heritage Coast, Hartland Point or Clovelly are particularly stunning, or stop anywhere in Dartmoor National Park.

What is the best time of year to visit North Devon?

The best time to visit North Devon has to be spring / early summer or late summer / autumn, avoiding the masses and the school holidays in the middle of the year. Just as the weather is warming up in the spring and cooling down in the autumn is when North Devon really comes to life. It is also lovely to visit during the winter with no one else around, but the wind can be bracing, and some attractions might not be open as often.

How many days do you need in North Devon?

At least a week to see a few locations, be it just around the North Devon coast or some inland locations as well. But the ideal amount of time to spend in North Devon is 2 to 3 weeks.

Is Barnstaple worth a visit?

It might not necessarily seem like it, but Barnstaple is definitely worth a visit. This riverport town was once the home of the historic wool trade and as such has some rather beautiful buildings you can discover. Barnstaple is also the key point along the Tarka Trail, so a great place to pick up your bicycles and get cycling along the River Taw.

What is North Devon known for?

North Devon is famous, first and foremost, for its incredible sandy beaches. There are of course other things that make North Devon worth a visit, such as beautiful National Trust properties and gardens and stunning coastal walks, but it is the beaches that North Devon is most famous for.

Which is nicer Woolacombe or Ilfracombe?

This depends on what you want from your trip. Woolacombe has a lovely beach and some great places to eat as well as some pretty extensive sand dunes. Ilfracombe on the other hand is more well known for its art galleries, quaint seaside shops and amusements and cliffside coastal walks.

Which is nicer North or South Devon?

Everyone has a preference, and although both North Devon and South Devon are beautiful places to visit, (check out our South Devon blog posts for more info), we definitely have a soft spot for North Devon. It could be because that is where we spend most of our time when in Devon, and we just need to visit South Devon more!

Conclusion: Places to visit in North Devon – Three North Devon road trip itineraries

So, there is our guide on places to visit in North Devon through three road trip itineraries. Is there anywhere you would add? We will sure be back exploring North Devon, it being like our home away from home, so keep an eye out for more North Devon road trip ideas.

Why not extend your stay in North Devon and visit more of the stunning coastline or even explore some more of Exmoor – we spent 5 days in Exmoor National Park all together and it was some of the most wonderful adventuring we have had in England!

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

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7 Beautiful Villages In North Devon To Visit

North Devon is a fascinating place, with 171 square kilometres (66 square miles) of coastline designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore its dramatic coastlines with rugged cliffs, coves, and beautiful beaches. Venture inland to discover Exmoor National Park, with its beautiful rolling Devon countryside and wild ponies. You can wander through at least seven beautiful villages in North Devon along the way.

I’m lucky enough that my parents live in this area, so I get to visit regularly and am never disappointed. North Devon is full of untouched areas, charming villages, and intriguing north Devon towns. And, of course, if you get tired, there are always plenty of tea rooms where you can enjoy a Devon cream tea.

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7 Beautiful Villages To Visit in North Devon

These quaint villages are enchanting, whether basking in the sun or on a stormy winter’s day. So let us take a look. Here are seven beautiful villages in North Devon to entice you.

1. Clovelly

Clovelly is a picturesque fishing village positioned in a gorgeous setting. Fairytale style cottages line steep cobbled streets. Not only is it one of Devon’s prettiest, but it is also world-famous for its lobsters and crabs, served in French and Spanish restaurants.

Clovelly celebrates its sustainably caught lobster and crab by local fishermen through its famous Lobster and Crab Feast. The village and its iconic harbour are alive with music, local food and craft stalls. Street entertainment thrills children with games, magic, and balloon modelling. Of course, there is an abundance of freshly caught lobster, and crab dishes to savour, washed down with plenty of local ale.

Clovelly was once part of an estate owned by William the Conqueror, The King of England. The estate remained in the hands of royalty for many years until the Hamlyn family inherited the village. It has remained in the same family since 1738.

The village entrance fee is paid at the Visitor Centre at the top of the hill, in the parking area.

Clovelly is a favourite place for many visitors who delight in colourful houses and beautiful hanging baskets. However, Clovelly’s donkeys are probably its most famous residents. Clovelly is a traffic-free zone, and donkeys are its primary form of transport, carrying goods back up the winding, narrow streets after the products have been brought down the hill by sledge.

2. Appledore

Appledore is a picturesque fishing village with pastel coloured houses and is a firm favourite with locals and tourists. 

The village has a rich maritime history, dating back to 878 AD when the Vikings invaded. Appledore is famous for its boat building, and after being closed for 60 years, it once again came to life in 2021. The village can share many a secret tale about smuggling and pirates. You can learn more at the North Devon Maritime Museum in Appledore, where there is plenty to entertain adults and children.

Take a visit to the Hockings ice cream factory in Appledore. The family-run business has been making award-winning ice cream for over 85 years. In that time, they have won over 80 awards. 

If you love to enjoy the delights of the local produce of the south west, Appledore provides in quantities when it comes to the fishing industry with freshly caught seafood. Cod, bass, cockles, and mussels are some favoured choices.  You can sit on the quay and relish fish and chips while watching the world go by in the pretty Taw and Torridge estuary where the Taw and Torridge rivers meet.

Once you have checked out the local independent shops selling regional crafts, antiques, and handmade jewellery, climb aboard the seasonal ferry and take a trip across the River Torridge estuary to the village of Instow.

Instow is another quaint village, so worth a look. However, our next stop is Braunton.

3. Braunton

Rumour has it that Braunton is the largest village in England. It is also the gateway to the fabulous beaches at Croyde and Woolacombe. Braunton is a popular destination owing to its prime location surrounded by rolling hills and North Devon towns and villages, including the bustling Barnstaple, North Devon’s largest town.

Braunton is home to Braunton Burrows. A vast sand dune system, one of the largest in the British Isles. A UNESCO Designated Biosphere Reserve protects the habitat of many rare plants and insects. During the summer, the Burrows are awash with the colours of 470 species of plants and flowers. Grazing Devon Reds, cattle indigenous to North Devon and ponies roam freely to manage the land.

Climbing the dunes is challenging but worth the effort for the fabulous views of the meandering Taw estuary, Lundy Island and picturesque towns and villages. Due to its rugged terrain, the area was used during WWII for DDay Training and remains a military training ground today.

Due to its accessible position to attractions, a short drive away is the pretty market town of South Molton and the nearby award-winning Quince Honey Farm . The farm is a working honey farm and provides enough entertainment for a full day out for the entire family.

Croyde is famous for its top-class surfing. If watersports float your boat, Croyde is a place to visit. It is about five miles from Braunton. The area is an eclectic mix of a relaxed village feel and an exciting surfing vibe.

Croyde Beach is about 700 metres wide and about 700 metres from the sea at low tide during spring tides. Although recognised for its excellent surfing conditions, it is a place for everyone. If you have never surfed before and want to give it a try, there are plenty of opportunities to rent gear and book lessons.

During the summer season, the village hosts the Croyde Deckchair Cinema in the village hall. It is a fun way to spend a summer evening relaxing in a deckchair, watching a family-friendly classic, and eating popcorn.

Twenty-five years ago, Croyde began holding its summer festival, Goldcoast Oceanfest. The festival takes place on North Devon’s golden coast and is fun for all. From surfers to sun-worshippers, watersports, beach fun, and entertainment for all the family.

Croyde is between the beaches of Saunton Sands and Woolacombe Bay, with three miles of golden sand to explore. Several walks start from the village, including joining the south west coast path to Baggy Point, which offers spectacular views of Bideford Bay and Hartland. If you find it thirsty work, there are plenty of North Devon’s finest pubs with thatched roofs perfect for refreshments.

5. Mortehoe

A mile along the coast from Woolacombe is the tiny village of Mortehoe, which remains untouched. The golden beaches transform into secluded bays with rock pools to explore. Turning over rocks and searching for hidden sea creatures makes rock pooling fun for the entire family. Including your dog, as the beach is dog-friendly year round.

Mortehoe village sits tall at the top of Chapel Hill with stunning sea views across Woolacombe Bay and the Bristol Channel in one direction. On the other, you can see Lundy Island and beyond to the Atlantic Ocean.

Mortehoe is a pretty village with a friendly atmosphere. In the summer, you can climb aboard a tractor and trailer safari . Starting from the Mortehoe museum, the safari is ideal for those who want to rest their legs and still see the breathtaking scenery and rolling hills of the north Devon coast. The ride is suitable for all weather and takes you to Bull Point lighthouse. You might spot some seals basking in the sun.

Many ships have fallen victim to the rugged north Devon coast, and since 1879 there has been a lighthouse at Mortehoe to keep sailors safe during the stormy weather.

Mortehoe is Woolacombe’s quiet neighbour. A hidden gem among the more popular beach destinations. Although more peaceful with fewer tourists, it offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, including the quirky Barricane Beach Cafe. A popular beach cafe craned in at the start of the summer season and out at the end. It is famed for its Sri Lankan curries, although weather dependent, due to its location on the beach.

Lee village is a secret gem, hidden at the end of narrow lanes. Locals refer to the quiet village as ‘Fuschia Valley.’ When the flowers bloom, the hedges are on fire with scarlet flowers. The quaint village is a mixture of old and new, with thatched houses and those of a more contemporary style.

Lee Bay is a rocky cove surrounded by an impressive coastline. Many consider it to be the crown jewel of Lee. The bay is an excellent place for swimming and rock pooling. The tide can be strong sometimes, but a beautiful sandy beach emerges as the tide falls.

The village boasts five walks leading off to explore the scenery surrounding the beautiful village. The various paths take you to explore ancient woodlands, open heathland, hidden valleys, and the coast.

The local village pub, The Grampus Inn, is family-owned. Some of the building dates back to the 14th century, and it was a working farm until the 1970s when it became a pub. They pride themselves on homemade, local food. The welcoming pub does not stop with food. It distils its popular gin and brews five different ales. Locals and tourists enjoy it all.

7. Lynton and Lynmouth

Lynton and Lynmouth are two of the prettiest villages in the breathtakingly beautiful Exmoor National Park. They are close to Combe Martin, located on the highest point of the Coast Path. 

A water powered Cliff Railway joins the sister towns. Lynton is a Victorian town perched high on a hill. Whereas Lynmouth is a quaint village with its thatched cottages, straddling the East Lyn River below.

The Cliff Railway is an impressive example of Victorian engineering. It was purposefully built in 1888 to join the two towns. The incredible accomplishment climbs 152 metres (500 feet) over 262 metres (862 feet) of tracks. It is the highest and steepest railway in the world, solely powered by water. 

Lynton is a town high on Glyn Lyn Gorge, offering spectacular views over the Bristol Channel. Lynton is home to the iconic town hall built in a medley of styles, such as mock Gothic, neo-Tudor, and art nouveau. There are also a few independent shops and a cinema in a Grade II-listed former Methodist Church.

Lynton’s Toy Museum is a fascinating place to visit. It might be small, but it is crammed full of toys, games, and action figures. Whatever your age, the museum provides fun and nostalgia.

Lynmouth is in a beautiful seaside location and is often called ‘Little Switzerland’ because of its magnificent surrounding scenery. It is popular with walkers and kayakers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nicest part of north devon.

Ilfracombe is a charming seaside town in a stunning position on the dramatic North Devon coastline, with rock pools and sandy beaches. The South West Coast path makes it a walker’s paradise. It is steeped in a history of smugglers, with a network of underground caverns to explore. 

What Is the Prettiest Village in Devon?

Clovelly tops Devon’s list of prettiest villages and is probably one of the most beautiful in the UK.

Where Should I Live in North Devon?

The North Devon town of South Molton features as one of the best towns to live in the UK.

Final Thoughts

Our list of seven beautiful villages in North Devon lists only some of the most enchanting in the region. There are many more, from inland moorland positions to sandy beaches and craggy coastlines.

Whether you thrill in watersports, unwind on glorious beaches, take a stroll on a riverside walk or a more challenging hike on the dunes of the Braunton Burrows. Or enjoy the solitude of unspoilt moorland. North Devon offers something for everyone.

After your day of activity, you can find traditional thatched pubs up cobbled streets, offering locally-sourced food and regionally brewed ale.

North Devon is a destination for all the family. 

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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.

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

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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!

Other Top posts you might enjoy:

• Best places to visit in England
• 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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Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

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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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The UK's best vineyards for wine tastings, tours and stays

Stop off for a day out, or stay a little longer, to sample fine British wines where they're made

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Denbies Wine Estate, Surrey

Nestled in the heart of the Surrey Hills in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Denbies Wine Estate is one of England’s largest single estate vineyards. Visitors can enjoy indoor wine tasting tours, outdoor vineyard train tours and eat at a number of restaurants, including Gallery Restaurant, Vineyard Restaurant & Wine Library, Conservatory Restaurant, and the Hatch On The Lawn Takeaway. The estate is also home to the Denbies Vineyard Hotel, which has 17 en suite rooms. The hotel has been “designed with the vineyard at its heart”, said The Telegraph . One of Britain’s first vineyard hotels, the “setting of this boutique property doesn’t disappoint”. denbies.co.uk

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Greyfriars Vineyard, Surrey

Located in the Surrey Hills, Greyfriars Vineyard has been making wine since 1989. Its " stunning south-facing chalk slopes" said Surrey Live . Greyfriars's tour with wine tasting takes visitors on a guided walk through the beautiful vineyards finishing with a "tutored tasting" of several of its "prize-winning sparkling and still wines". Alernatively, you can opt for a free self-guided tour. greyfriarsvineyard.co.uk

Hambledon Vineyard, Hampshire

Hambledon Vineyard boasts the title of England's oldest commercial vineyard and despite "flying the flag for English fizz" since 1952 "it's still full of new ideas", said Time Out . The small family-run operation's "charm" is showcased in its wine tours and the pop-up restaurant is a "lovely touch". Tours include a "walk around the vineyards and underground cellars", said Good Housekeeping , before sampling "English sparklers", or add on an afternoon tea. hambledonvineyard.co.uk

Oastbrook Estate Vineyard, East Sussex

Set in a rolling valley, Oastbrook Estate's winery is itself an "outstanding architectural feature", said WineTourism.com . Surrounded by vineyards and offering luxury accommodation "this truly is a unique place to visit to try amazing wines". Oastbrook produces a range of award-winning sparkling and still wines that "reflect the exceptional micro-climate of the Rother Valley". As well as luxury glamping and the Scandinavian-style Avalon Waterside Lodge, the estate also has its own "Hobbit house", Vineyard Hollow, within the vineyard, with two bedrooms, a living area, wood-burner and even a hot tub. oastbrook.com

Tinwood Estate, West Sussex

There's plenty of attractions for wine aficionados at the Tinwood Estate. On the edge of the South Downs near Chichester, visitors can book vineyard tours, tastings and afternoon teas. There's a "small-plates restaurant" open during the day, said The Times . One of the big highlights here are the three luxury vineyard lodges "each decorated in beautiful materials, with a terrace for better views of those ripening grapes" as well as a barrel sauna and a hot tub". The estate first started planting in 2007 and "boasts 110 acres of land under vine, where it largely produces Blanc de Blancs, Brut and English Sparkling Rose", said Square Meal .  tinwoodestate.com

Oxney Organic Estate, East Sussex

Near Rye in East Sussex, the Oxney Organic Estate makes “delectable chardonnays and fizz”, said The Times . As the name suggests, this 35-acre vineyard is said to be the "largest single-estate" maker of organic English wines, with wine tours every Saturday from April to November. And on a sunny day, you'll be able to take in the beautiful country views on an idyllic picnic lunch after your tour. Best of all, "you can sleep it off" in the estate's converted barn, shepherd's hut or farmhouse cottage. oxneyestate.com

Ashling Park Estate, West Sussex

Ashling Park is a vineyard and winery – and "what wine it is", said Neil Davey on TheWeek.com . But it also offers a gin school, an excellent restaurant and some delightful luxury lodges. The visitor centre and shop is very good and the tour is informative. In 2023 Ashling Park won gold for its eponymous rosé at the Wine GB Awards. It's also a Decanter Gold Medal winner. ashlingpark.co.uk

Ridgeview Wine Estate, East Sussex

Looking out of the tasting room window at Ridgeview Wine Estate, the inspiration for the name is clear. Beyond the vines stretching out across the valley, the landscape rises towards the chalk escarpment of the South Downs, which divides the vineyard from Brighton and the sea. As "one of England's most prestigious producers", said the Daily Mail , Ridgeview offers guided tours, relaxed wine tastings, or all-day dining at The Rows & Vine restaurant. ridgeview.co.uk

Tillingham Winery, East Sussex

Less than a 15-minute drive from the historic town of Rye you'll find Tillingham Winery, "one of the most exciting wine-makers in Britain," said The Times , which is "known for natural, non-intervention wines plus fermentation in earthenware qvevri jars". Book onto one of the vineyard tours in advance and enjoy the "country life" that's incorporated into the surroundings, said Kaye O'Doherty on TheWeek.com . As well as tours and tastings, Tillingham also offers 11 double rooms in a former hop barn and a restaurant with vistas over the Sussex countryside. Chef Brendan Eades, who scooped a Michelin Green Star in 2022, cooks up an exceptional, pescatarian feast with fish caught daily from Rye Harbour. tillingham.com

Rathfinny Wine Estate, East Sussex

Here "each bottling is supposed to reflect the unpredictable nature of the British summer season", said Elite Traveler . "Three miles from where the rolling hills of the South Downs give way to the coast" the 600-acre estate is home to The Flint Barns, which has 10 en-suite bedrooms, and the Tasting Room and Flint Barns Dining Room restaurants. Rathfinny's Cellar Door shop is open daily for drop-in wine tastings and shopping, while the estate also offers seasonal vineyard tours and tastings all year round. rathfinnyestate.com

Chapel Down, Kent

On the chalky North Downs, Chapel Down is perhaps "the most well-known wine producer in the UK", said Time Out . The guided tour is "a lot of fun" and it helps that "the wine is great, too", with Flint Dry a bestseller. Chapel Down has won numerous awards throughout the years and its Classic NV Brut is one of the "most accessible" English sparkling wines – "both from a price point and national availability", said Great British Wine . As well as tours Chapel Down also hosts experiences and visitors can book a table at its restaurant, The Swan Wine Kitchen. chapeldown.com

Biddenden Vineyards, Kent

The county's "oldest family-run vineyard", Biddenden produces "top-notch white, rosé, red and sparkling wines", said Country Living , from 11 grape varieties. All vine work is still carried out by hand. Vineyard tours, self-guided tours, meet-the-winemaker tours and picnics are available to book. Stay a little longer in a romantic cottage with a wood-fired hot tub. biddendenvineyards.com

Langham Wine Estate, Dorset

At this environmentally conscious vineyard in the heart of the West Country, they take a "low-intervention approach to wine making, from grape growing to wine production", said Square Meal . English sparkling is the "brand's main forte" which you can sample on a guided tour and tasting. And if an afternoon of wine tasting really takes it out of you, a sumptuous collection of lunches and afternoon teas are available in the vineyard café. With wines made solely from the classical champagne grape varieties of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, this is high-quality fare – be sure not to miss the Rosé NV, which is packed full of gorgeous berry flavours. langhamwine.co.uk

Darts Farm's Pebblebed Vineyard, Devon

Visitors can book tours and tastings at Darts Farm's 18-acre Pebblebed Vineyard and traditional winery, in the village of Clyst St George in east Devon. The vineyards and winery are located on their farm and "the team are proud" said Luxury Lifestyle magazine, "to be one of very few single-estate producers" in the country, with the vineyard and winery in one place and wines made from their own grapes. dartsfarm.co.uk

Castlewood Vineyard, Devon

If you're seeking "fizz and festivals" look no further than Castlewood Vineyard in Devon, said Condé Nast Traveller . Its story began in 2006 on a south-facing Devon hillside overlooking the River Axe with owner Rob Corbett planting his vines by hand. Now the vineyard offers private tours and a June festival, held to celebrate the release of the latest vintage. If you stay in one of the Grade-II listed cottages you'll be "surrounded by pretty gardens and countryside". Equally, if you're there for just a day the steep slopes of the vineyard offer "amazing views of the Axe Valley". castlewoodvineyard.co.uk

Camel Valley, Cornwall

Made up of 82 acres of rolling hills bathed in southerly sunshine, Camel Valley is Cornwall's largest vineyard, and was "the first English wine producer to be granted a royal warrant", said Muddy Stilettos . Visitors can join a number of tours and tastings, or sit on a stone-clad terrace, sipping Pinot Noir Rosé Brut as they watch the sun set over vineyards that slope down to the River Camel as it snakes from Bodmin Moor to Padstow. And it's "handy for non-driving access", being on the Camel Trail cycle route. camelvalley.com

Three Choirs Vineyards, Gloucestershire

One of England's oldest vineyards, in 2023 Three Choirs celebrated 50 years since the first vines were planted on the estate in Newent, Gloucestershire. It now boasts 75 acres of vines and currently produces around 250,000 bottles of wine a year. Facilities and experiences include The Brasserie restaurant, Cellar Door shop, plus wine tastings and vineyard tours. A "pretty vineyard" with "fabulous views", there's even accommodation on site, said The Hotel Guru . The lodges and rooms are "smart and spacious" with "hints of luxury". three-choirs-vineyards.co.uk

Woodchester Valley Vineyard, Gloucestershire

This south Cotswolds vineyard is "putting Gloucestershire on the map as a world-class wine destination", said Muddy Stilettos . Set in the Stroud valleys, "family-run boutique winery" Woodchester Valley has been producing world-class white, rosé and sparkling wines since 2016 and visitors can book tours, tastings or enjoy a "sip-and-stay experience with a difference". In 2023 its vintage Pinot Gris "beat Italian rivals", said The Times , to win gold at the Global Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio Masters. woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk

Gwinllan Conwy Vineyard, Conwy

There are vineyards "blossoming" all across Wales, said Natasha Lovell-Smith on Great British Food Awards . And one of the most popular is Gwinllan Conwy, which has received multiple national and international awards. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Snowdonia Mountain Range, the "success" of this vineyard is "underpinned by the microclimate" of north Wales, which "pairs resemblance" to the climate of New Zealand. Thanks to its proximity to the sea, this means the vineyard "experiences mild winters allowing the vines to develop earlier". This beautiful vineyard offers tours and wine tasting experiences throughout the year and at the online shop you can buy Welsh artisan produce or Welsh hampers, as well as wine. gwinllanconwy.co.uk

Llanerch Vineyard, Glamorgan

Tucked into the Welsh countryside, yet only 20 minutes from Cardiff, Llanerch Vineyard offers "a drop of romance", said Kerry Walker in The Daily Telegraph . While the vineyard itself is centred on a "whitewashed farmhouse" from 1851 and pulls off the "delicate act of combining original features", the hotel rooms are "bright and contemporary". Beyond the hotel and wine, is the "perkily turreted Neo-Gothic" Hensol Castle which is only a 15-minute walk away. But where Llanerch really "shines" is its restaurant which overlooks the vineyard and offers "great" food and "bang-on" service. You may "come for a wine tour" but you'll "stay for the imaginative locally sourced food". llanerch.co.uk

Ryedale Vineyards, North Yorkshire

The most northerly vineyard in Britain, Ryedale offers more than wine – it also makes cider from the estate's orchards. Voted one of the best vineyards to visit and tour in England, it offers an "informal, humorous and informative guided tour". For those wanting to stay, Ryedale has two "cosy en suite rooms in the farmhouse", said The Guardian , and the "slap-up breakfast" is the "perfect way to start a day" exploring the surrounding North Yorkshire wolds. ryedalevineyards.co.uk

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The North Devon ladies helping the elderly in Uganda

A group of local ladies will be speaking about their visit to some of the more remote and rural areas of Uganda last autumn to help the charity ROTOM mark its 20 thanniversary

• 11:09, 9 APR 2024

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Vital and unsung work helping Africa’s forgotten elderly will be the subject of two special presentations in Croyde and Braunton this week.

A group of local ladies will be speaking about their visit to some of the more remote and rural areas of Uganda last autumn to help the charity ROTOM mark its 20 th anniversary.

The talks are at Croyde Baptist Church on Tuesday (April 9) at 7.30pm and to Braunton Caen Rotary Club at The Mariners Arms on Wednesday (April 10) at 7pm, with guests welcome.

ROTOM (Reach One, Touch One Ministries) is a Christian organisation that provides support for the growing number of elderly people in Uganda, including health and medical or social as well as spiritual support.

Helen Milton, Hilary Earnshaw, Adrienne Shaw, Lynn Talbot and Rose Thorn visited in October 2023 to help celebrate the anniversary, taking with them packed suitcases of provisions to share with their charges and the charity workers over there.

The North Devon group sponsors various seniors in Uganda, which has no social care or support system, yet these older people still have a vital role to play in their communities.

ROTOM also works in Ethiopia and due to war, illness and early death in both countries taking working age parents, the orphaned children are often left in the care of grand parents or older relatives.

Helen said: “There is a huge sense of community in Ugandan villages but as you might imagine, there are few or no resources to support older people who are still perfectly capable of raising their grandchildren, but need a little support.

“When we consider that elderly social care is so often debated in this country and yet there is still never enough money to go around, you can appreciate how much harder it is in Uganda.

“ROTOM helps with practical measures such as home visits for medical and social care to enable older people to retain their independence, as well as fundraising for vital basics such as water tanks, mattresses, essential medication and school fees.”

The charity also runs a school that provides places for the children and grandchildren of those who are sponsored.

The charity was set up in 2023 by a Ugandan man called Kenneth Mugayehwenkyi due to the lack of support and the growing number of elderly people in Africa.

In North Devon, the Philip J Milton & Company Plc Charitable Foundation, of which Helen is a trustee, has also given ongoing support to ROTOM.

All are welcome to attend the presentation at Croyde Baptist Church on Tuesday, April 9 at 7.30pm. If you are unable to make that, there is another presentation to Braunton Caen Rotary Club at The Mariners Arms on Wednesday (April 10) at 7pm.

Anyone who would like to find out more about ROTOM or perhaps become a sponsor can do so at https://reachone-touchone.org

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Villages & Towns in North Devon

In North Devon there are a whole host of beautiful towns and villages, both coastal and rural full of vibrant history,  fascinating markets ,  world famous attractions  and of course, plenty of  fine food  and  places to stay.

Market towns like  Barnstaple  and  Bideford  are the  shopping hubs of North Devon.  You’ll find the historic Pannier Markets, plus  shopping centres full of your favourite high street names  mingled in with local traders selling the very best in unique, locally created products.  Food fans  will want to spend some time in  Ilfracombe.  This coastal town is quickly becoming a haven for foodies and is gaining a reputation for the quality of its  restaurants, cafés and take aways , especially along Fore Street near the iconic harbour. It is also here that you can catch sight of Verity, Damien Hirst’s famous statue.

It isn’t just the stunning coastlines and the local produce that attract people to North Devon, the region is also full of towns and villages with historical and cultural significance.  Westward Ho!  for instance is the only place in the UK with an exclamation point in its name, while  South Molton  is one of the oldest towns in the county.

Plenty of places to visit

Victorian seaside towns teetering on the cliffs, picture postcard fishing villages and small towns and hamlets unchanged for decades are all around you in North Devon. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, get acquainted with the towns and villages that make up North Devon’s unique attraction.

Culture and history combined

Because it is steeped in history, North Devon is the ideal place to go if you’re someone looking for that quintessentially west country view of thatched cottages,  country pubs  and wide open spaces. Many of the towns and villages in this part of the county are described as having ‘chocolate box cottages’ and plenty of beautiful fishing villages to explore too.

North Devon is also home to the  village of Clovelly . This picturesque fishing village is a unique attraction in its own right – completely free of traffic, it was once owned by the British monarchy and features a 14 th  century quay, cobbled streets and fascinating tours.

Take a day trip to Lundy Island

Lundy Island  is found in the Bristol Channel and is the UK’s first Marine Conservation Zone, where you’ll find a whole host of rare and interesting wildlife and wild flowers. The island is home to the south west’s  population of puffins  and has a rich diversity of sea birds. The island is protected and has a number of  accommodation options  that help you get back to times gone by. The island has its own village store and also offers a number of warden led activities, including guided walks, rockpool rambles, snorkel tours and the chance to do caving, rock climbing and sailing.

North Devon’s towns and villages are filled with colourful characters, amazing  family attractions  and lots of beautiful  things to see and do .

Why not  click here  to see what events are taking place around the region and book your next visit?

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