Devon, located in southwest England, offers a varied landscape of coastline, moorland, and historic towns. Key attractions include Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, known for hiking and wildlife. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features notable geological formations. Exeter and Plymouth provide cultural and architectural interest, while coastal towns like Salcombe and Ilfracombe attract visitors for their beaches and maritime heritage. Devon also offers historic estates, gardens, and traditional market towns.
Official tourism website: https://www.visitdevon.co.uk
Exeter
Exeter, a historic city in Devon, England, is renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant culture. Dominated by the Gothic Exeter Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, the city offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions. Highlights include the Roman city walls, the medieval Underground Passages, and the contemporary Princesshay shopping area. Exeter’s Quayside provides scenic views and leisure activities, while the Royal Albert Memorial Museum showcases extensive local history and art collections.
Official website: https://www.visitexeter.com
Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches 95 miles along the southern coast of England from East Devon to Dorset. Renowned for its geological significance, the coastline reveals 185 million years of Earth’s history through its cliffs, beaches, and rock formations. Key attractions include the iconic Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch, and the fossil-rich beaches of Lyme Regis. The area offers educational opportunities and scenic walks, attracting geologists, hikers, and tourists alike.
Salcombe
Salcombe, situated in South Devon, is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and nautical charm. Renowned for its sheltered harbor and sandy beaches, Salcombe is a popular destination for sailing, watersports, and coastal walks. The town offers a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, serving fresh seafood and regional delicacies. Notable nearby attractions include the South West Coast Path and the Salcombe Maritime Museum, which highlights the area’s rich seafaring history.
Clovelly
Clovelly, located on the North Devon coast, is a unique, privately-owned village renowned for its steep, cobbled main street that descends 400 feet to a historic fishing harbor. With motor vehicles banned, goods are transported by sledges pulled by hand, preserving the village’s traditional charm. Visitors can explore the Clovelly Visitor Centre, scenic harbor, and the 14th-century St. Peter’s Chapel. Clovelly also hosts various cultural events, celebrating its rich maritime heritage.
Official website: https://www.clovelly.co.uk
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park, located in Devon, covers 368 square miles of rugged moorland, ancient woodlands, and granite tors. Renowned for its archaeological significance, the park features prehistoric stone circles, medieval villages, and historic granite crosses. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, with numerous trails offering breathtaking views. The park is also home to diverse wildlife and the iconic Dartmoor ponies, making it a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Official website: https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk
Google map 4.8/5
Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park, straddling Devon and Somerset, spans 267 square miles of diverse landscapes, including moorland, wooded valleys, and rocky coastline. The park is famous for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, home to red deer and Exmoor ponies. Popular activities include hiking on the South West Coast Path, birdwatching, and exploring historic sites like the Tarr Steps clapper bridge. Exmoor’s dark skies also offer exceptional stargazing opportunities, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Official website: https://www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk
Google map 4.8/5
Beer
Beer, a charming coastal village in East Devon, is known for its picturesque scenery and historic fishing heritage. Nestled in a natural cove on the Jurassic Coast, Beer offers a shingle beach popular for fishing and boating. The village features quaint stone cottages, independent shops, and traditional pubs. Notable attractions include the Beer Quarry Caves, which have provided stone for over 2,000 years, and Pecorama, a model railway and gardens. Beer is also part of the South West Coast Path, offering stunning cliffside walks.
Google map Beer Beach 4.6/5
Blackpool Sands
Blackpool Sands, located near Dartmouth in South Devon, is a picturesque Blue Flag-awarded beach renowned for its clear waters and fine shingle. Surrounded by lush, wooded hills, it offers a sheltered environment ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach features excellent facilities, including a café, water sports equipment rental, and ample parking. Nearby, visitors can explore the South West Coast Path, providing scenic walks with stunning coastal views. Blackpool Sands is a family-friendly destination known for its cleanliness and natural beauty.
Official website: https://www.blackpoolsands.co.uk
Google map 4.6/5
Saunton Sands
Saunton Sands, located in North Devon, is a renowned three-mile stretch of golden sand backed by the expansive Braunton Burrows dune system, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve. The beach is popular for its consistent surf, making it a favorite among surfers and longboarders. It also offers excellent conditions for kite surfing, paddleboarding, and beachcombing. Amenities include a café, surf school, and ample parking. The nearby South West Coast Path provides scenic routes for walking and exploring the stunning coastal landscape.
Google map 4.7/5
Croyde Beach
Croyde Beach, situated on the North Devon coast, is a renowned surfing destination famed for its powerful waves and golden sands. The beach is popular among surfers of all skill levels, with consistent swells and surf schools offering lessons. In addition to surfing, Croyde Beach is ideal for swimming, beach volleyball, and sunbathing. The surrounding area features picturesque coastal walks, including the South West Coast Path, and amenities such as cafes, shops, and campgrounds, making it a vibrant hub for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Google map 4.7/5
Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe Beach, nestled on Devon’s northern coast, is renowned for its three-mile stretch of golden sands bordered by rolling dunes. As a perennial favorite among beachgoers and surfers alike, it offers excellent conditions for water sports and leisurely strolls. The beach is flanked by amenities including cafes and shops, ensuring convenience for visitors. Its clean waters and lifeguard patrols make it a safe choice for families. Woolacombe’s natural beauty and facilities make it a top destination for seaside relaxation in Devon.
Ilfracombe
Ilfracombe, a picturesque coastal town in North Devon, captivates visitors with its charming harbor and Victorian architecture. The town is renowned for its striking cliffs and the iconic landmark of Damien Hirst’s sculpture, Verity, overlooking the sea. Ilfracombe offers a blend of traditional seaside charm with modern amenities, including cafes, galleries, and shops. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Tunnels Beaches and enjoy boat trips along the rugged coastline. Ilfracombe’s unique character and scenic beauty make it a delightful destination for coastal enthusiasts.
Google map Town
Google map Ilfracombe Beach 4.6/5
Google map Ilfracombe Harbour 4.6/5
Plymouth
Plymouth, situated on the south coast of Devon, is a historic maritime city renowned for its rich naval heritage and scenic waterfront. It boasts attractions such as the Royal Citadel, a 17th-century fortress, and the Mayflower Steps, commemorating the Pilgrims’ departure for America in 1620. Plymouth offers a vibrant mix of cultural venues, shopping districts, and waterfront restaurants. The city also serves as a gateway to nearby Dartmoor National Park and the stunning South Devon coastline, making it an ideal base for exploring the region’s diverse landscapes.
Sidmouth
Sidmouth, nestled on the Jurassic Coast of East Devon, is a quaint seaside town known for its Regency architecture and scenic surroundings. Visitors are drawn to its expansive pebble beach, flanked by picturesque cliffs and the charming Connaught Gardens. The town exudes a relaxed atmosphere with its elegant promenade, boutique shops, and traditional tea rooms. Sidmouth is a popular destination for coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel. Its tranquil ambiance and natural beauty make it a favored retreat in Devon.