Travel Guide To Devon, England

Devon is a county located in the southwest of England, famous for its scenic countryside, stunning coastline, and rich history. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more!

Top Attractions in Devon

Devon is home to some of the most breathtaking attractions in England. The most popular ones include:

Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park is a vast moorland covering over 350 square miles, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures. The park also features ancient monuments, stunning waterfalls, and wildlife.

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral is one of the most impressive medieval cathedrals in England, with its stunning architecture and historical significance. Visitors can take guided tours or attend choir performances.

Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo is a great place to visit with family and friends, featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and gorillas.

Hidden Gems in Devon

Devon is not just about popular attractions, but also hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some of the lesser-known destinations:

Buckland Abbey

Buckland Abbey is a former Cistercian monastery that was converted into a country house. Visitors can explore the abbey’s history, art collection, and gardens.

Lydford Gorge

Lydford Gorge is a stunning natural wonder featuring a waterfall, ancient woodlands, and wildlife. Visitors can hike through the gorge and enjoy the scenery.

Berry Pomeroy Castle

Berry Pomeroy Castle is a ruined castle that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s history, legends, and ghost stories.

Food Scene in Devon

Devon is known for its fresh seafood, cream teas, and cider. Here are some of the best places to try local cuisine:

The Seahorse

The Seahorse is a seafood restaurant in Dartmouth that serves some of the freshest seafood in Devon, including oysters, scallops, and crab.

The Rusty Pig

The Rusty Pig is a restaurant in Ottery St Mary that serves homemade charcuterie, cheeses, and bread. The menu changes daily, depending on the availability of local produce.

The Cridford Inn

The Cridford Inn is a historic pub in Trusham that serves traditional Devonshire fare, including roast beef, fish and chips, and sticky toffee pudding.

Outdoor Adventures in Devon

Devon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, surfing, and more. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to try:

South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is a 630-mile trail that runs along the coast of Devon and Cornwall, offering stunning views of the sea and cliffs. Visitors can hike a section of the trail or complete the entire route.

Dartmoor Way Cycle Route

The Dartmoor Way Cycle Route is a 95-mile circular route that takes cyclists through the scenic countryside of Dartmoor. The route is suitable for all levels of cyclists.

Surfing in Croyde Bay

Croyde Bay is one of the best surfing spots in Devon, with its consistent waves and sandy beach. Visitors can take surfing lessons or rent equipment.

Historical Landmarks in Devon

Devon has a rich history dating back to the Roman times. Here are some of the best historical landmarks to visit:

Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is a medieval castle that is believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the legend of King Arthur.

Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo is a historic castle that was built in the 20th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s architecture, art collection, and gardens.

Buckland Abbey

Buckland Abbey is a former Cistercian monastery that was converted into a country house. Visitors can explore the abbey’s history, art collection, and gardens.

Family-Friendly Activities in Devon

Devon is a great place to visit with family and friends, offering plenty of activities for all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities:

Crealy Theme Park

Crealy Theme Park is a popular amusement park that features rides, attractions, and animals. Visitors can spend a whole day exploring the park and enjoying the rides.

Kents Cavern

Kents Cavern is a prehistoric cave that is believed to have been inhabited by humans for over 700,000 years. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about its history and geology.

Becky Falls

Becky Falls is a natural park that features waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the park and enjoy the scenery.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Devon

Devon has plenty of hidden spots and secret locations that are worth discovering. Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences:

Burgh Island

Burgh Island is a small island that can only be accessed by a sea tractor. The island features a historic hotel, art deco architecture, and stunning views of the sea.

Brentor Church

Brentor Church is a small church that is perched on top of a hill, offering stunning views of the countryside. Visitors can hike up to the church and enjoy the scenery.

Hound Tor

Hound Tor is a rocky outcrop that is believed to have inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles”. Visitors can hike up to the tor and explore the surrounding moorland.

Natural Wonders in Devon

Devon is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in England. Here are some of the best natural attractions to visit:

Salcombe Estuary

Salcombe Estuary is a natural harbor that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a boat tour or kayak through the estuary.

Lundy Island

Lundy Island is a small island that is located off the coast of Devon, offering stunning views of the sea and wildlife. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, or stay overnight in one of the island’s accommodations.

Blackdown Hills

Blackdown Hills is a range of hills that offer stunning views of the countryside and wildlife. Visitors can hike or cycle through the hills and enjoy the scenery.

Vibrant Nightlife in Devon

Devon is not just about natural beauty and history, but also vibrant nightlife. Here are some of the best places to enjoy a night out:

The Cavern

The Cavern is a live music venue in Exeter that features local and national bands. Visitors can enjoy a pint of cider or beer while listening to live music.

The Barbican Theatre

The Barbican Theatre is a performing arts venue in Plymouth that features theatre, dance, and music performances. Visitors can enjoy a night of entertainment in a historic venue.

The Oddfellows

The Oddfellows is a pub in Exeter that offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. Visitors can enjoy a drink or two in a cozy atmosphere.

Local Markets in Devon

Devon is home to some of the best local markets in England, offering fresh produce, artisanal products, and crafts. Here are some of the best markets to visit:

Exeter Farmers’ Market

Exeter Farmers’ Market is a weekly market that features local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Visitors can sample the products and meet the local producers.

Quayside Market

Quayside Market is a weekly market that is held in the historic quayside of Exeter. The market features local crafts, antiques, and street food.

Plymouth Market

Plymouth Market is a historic indoor market that features local produce, meats, cheeses, and crafts. Visitors can shop for souvenirs or enjoy a meal in one of the market’s restaurants.

Beaches and Mountains in Devon

Devon is home to some of the best beaches and mountains in England, offering stunning views and outdoor activities. Here are some of the best beaches and mountains