Top 21 Captivating Destinations to Explore in Devon
Title: Devon, the jewel of Southwest England: An unfiltered guide to its best places
Head to stunning Devon and discover the hidden gems that make it one of Southwest England's top holiday hotspots. With lively seaside towns, tranquil countryside, national parks, quaint villages, diverse wildlife, and an epic foodie scene, there's plenty to keep you entertained!
This upcoming guide navigates you through the best Devon locals and visitors love, divided into three sections: North, South, and East. But first, a quick warning: Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, the site owner earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, take a gander at the privacy policy.
Let's dive in!
Taste the Best of Devon: North
Devon's north coast boasts the beauty of Exmoor National Park, picturesque villages, rugged cliffs, and stunning coastal walks. From the historical charm of Ilfracombe to the remote wilderness of Lundy Island, here are the top places to explore:
1. Exmoor National Park
Get ready for adventure in the wild, remote expanses of Exmoor National Park. Explore heather-covered moors, dramatic tors, dense woodlands, and deep gorges while hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, or caving. Discover the lovely village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor, the ancient Bronze Age settlement at Grimspound, or Haytor Rocks – a fabulous spot for a walk.
2. Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe is the largest seaside town on North Devon's coast, boasting a thriving fishing scene. Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants or take a boat tour to spot seals and seabirds. Don't miss the unique Tunnels Beaches, accessible via a hand-carved stone tunnel through the cliffs.
3. Lundy Island
Lundy Island is a remote, windswept little island off the coast of Devon with a colony of Atlantic grey seals and very few buildings. Visit for a day trip or stay for a memorable, get-away-from-it-all experience. Explore the peaceful island, watch seals bask on the beaches, and marvel at the stout Lundy ponies and feral goats that roam the cliffs.
Discover the Best of Devon: South
Devon's south coast has plenty to offer, from charming seaside towns to rugged cliff walks, beautiful beaches, and picturesque villages. Whether you're after a mini adventure or a place to unwind, these spots have got you covered:
1. Dartmouth
Delve into the history of this charming town, which dates back to the Saxons. Explore the old streets and stunning architectural gems, enjoy seafood by the river, or embark on a river cruise for incredible views of the area.
2. Salcombe
Situated at the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary, Salcombe is a picturesque, upmarket town with a fantastic food scene, sheltered moorings, and white sandy beaches. Don't miss the Crab Shed for the ultimate seafood experience.
3. Burgh Island
Burgh Island, a tidal island connected to the mainland by a sandy beach, is a unique and beautiful spot to visit. Take the Sea Tractor or walk at low tide to explore the island, visit one of the two iconic buildings, or climb the hill for breathtaking views of the area.
Relish the Best of Devon: East
East Devon's coastline is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is famous for its diverse wildlife, rich history, and picturesque seaside towns. Whether you're after culture, scenic beauty, or foodie experiences, explore Devon's east coast:
1. Exmouth
Exmouth, a lively seaside town, boasts long sandy beaches, watersports opportunities, and a popular marina. Take a boat tour to see local wildlife or explore the charming town center filled with independent shops and restaurants.
2. Sidmouth
Sidmouth is a historic seaside resort offering stunning architecture and a tranquil, secluded beach. Don't miss Jacob's Ladder, a quaint wooden staircase leading down to the beach, and the charming, colorful town center.
That's a wrap! Devon offers an incredible range of experiences suited for every interest, so get out there and explore everything this stunning county has to offer. Whether you find yourself in the coastal adventures of North Devon, the charming heritage of South Devon, or the Jurassic beauty of East Devon, there's no denying that this magical destination will leave you spellbound!
- Experience the thrilling foodie culture of Devon as you savor local delicacies in the lively and upmarket town of Salcombe, South Devon.
- Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architectural gems of Dartmouth, located in South Devon, and take a river cruise for extraordinary views of the surrounding area.
- Discover the unique charm of Burgh Island, an eastern Devon tidal island connected to the mainland by a sandy beach, and explore its iconic buildings or climb the island's hill for breathtaking vistas.
- Venture to Exmoor National Park in North Devon for adventure-filled explorations: hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and caving in the park's heather-covered moors, dramatic tors, dense woodlands, and deep gorges.
