places to visit in south devon

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12 of the Best Places to Visit in South Devon

• Last Updated 21 March 2024

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From seaside hotspots and bougie harbour towns to historic cities and rolling rural landscapes, these are some of the very best places to visit in South Devon…

Southwest England is easily one of the best, and most popular, holiday destinations in the country. And Devon has it all! Beaches to suit all possible tastes, an epic foodie scene, gorgeous little villages, and one of England’s greatest wildernesses.

Neighbouring Cornwall might be better known as a beach holiday destination, but personally, I think I prefer Devon. I live just next-door in Dorset , so I know the whole southwest very well. And after spending the last couple of months visting nearly every corner of Devon while researching for a guidebook, I know the county better than ever!

So, I’ve popped together this guide to the most beautiful towns, greatest beaches and best places to visit on your trip to south Devon.

Get ready for beach days, cliff walks, quaint harbours, river journeys, glorious wildlife, and SO much more…

Map: Best Places to Visit in South Devon

1. dartmouth, 2. plymouth, 3. burgh island, 4. salcombe, 5. torquay & the english riviera, 7. dartmoor national park, 9. start bay, 10. teignmouth, 11. dawlish warren, 12. tamar valley aonb, top attractions in south devon – a quick list, best beaches in south devon.

For tthis post, I’m focusing on the most southern section of the county rather than the whole southern half of Devon. Exeter, Exmouth and beyond fall into ‘East Devon’ and won’t be covered here – but they’re well worth visiting too!

12 Best Places to Visit in South Devon

Spread along the west bank of the wide Dart Estuary, Dartmouth has long been a significant port. There’s a prestigious naval college, a swanky yacht marina, and a historic harbour area to discover.

Today, the town’s crooked streets and stunning old buildings house posh restaurants, cosy bars, swish art galleries, and cool boutiques. Oh, and a lot of nautical clothing shops – there’s no escaping the maritime vibes here!

One of the best things about Dartmouth is exploring by river. Take the ferry downriver to visit Dartmouth Castle , the oldest parts of which date from 1388. Next, take a leisurely cruise upriver to spot the wildlife including seals, kingfishers, wading birds and (sometimes) otters. Finally, take the ferry to Greenway , Agatha Chistie’s former holiday home, now a National Trust property.

Devon’s largest city, Plymouth has a rich maritime heritage, earning it the nickname ‘Ocean City’. Some of history’s most famous voyages set sail from the port here: including the Mayflower Pilgrims, Captain James Cook and Francis Drake .

More recently, Plymouth has been undergoing a dramatic transformation. The city was heavily bombed during WWII due to its role as a key naval port, and the hasty rebuilding left behind a city centre that tended to favour functionality over style.

But that’s all changing – thanks to trendy new waterfront revelopments around Sutton Harbour and Royal William Yard, plus an exciting new Arts Quarter . This last one is around the University area, with galleries, funky new architecture, and the lively Tavistock Place.

Top things to do in Plymouth

• Visit The Box – a fantastic new museum showcasing Plymouth’s maritime history.
• Explore the historic harbourside Barbican area and visit the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrims sailed from.
• Tour Black Friar’s Distillery – the home of Plymouth Gin and England’s oldest working gin distillery.
• Visit the National Marine Aquarium – the UK’s largest aquarium.
• Find out more in my guide to the BEST things to do in Plymouth .

You can’t skip Burgh Island when you visit south Devon – this iconic landmark is one of the best places for a mini adventure! It’s a tidal island, connected to the mainland by a strip of beach that completely dissappears at high tide.

At low tide, you can walk to Burgh Island from Bigbury-on-Sea. Or, at high tide, there’s the Sea Tractor. This unique, bizarre-looking contraption is is operated by Burgh Island Hotel; you’ll find timetables posted at the beach carpark in Bigbury-on-Sea and at the entrance to the island.

There are only a handful of buildings on Burgh Island, and no roads to speak of. This is a place to get away from it all: walk the coast path, spot wildlife, and climb the hill for views of the coast. To eat, there’s the swanky art deco Burgh Island Hotel or the 14th-century Pilchard Inn – one of England’s oldest taverns and apparently haunted by a smuggler’s ghost.

Just along the coast from Dartmouth you’ll find another sailing mecca to explore. Siting at the mouth of the serene Kingsbridge Estuary, Salcombe is one of south Devon’s most upmarket destinations.

This bougie little town – with its sheltered moorings, white sandy beaches, and fancy food scene – attracts a bit of a yachtie crowd. But there’s plenty here for everyone to enjoy.

Get ready for incredible seafood (don’t miss the Crab Shack ), epic cliff walks, and gorgeous beaches. South Sands and North Sands are closest, or take the ferry to explore the idyllic beaches around East Portlemouth on the opposite bank. Click here for my guide to the best Salcombe beaches , with instructions on how to find them. You can also take a ferry upriver to the historic market town of Kingsbridge.

The three towns clustered around the wide spread of Tor Bay earned themselves the nickname of ‘The English Riviera’ around the time of the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). With the French Riviera off limits, wealthy Georgians turned to the calm, sheltered waters of Tor Bay instead. After all, this gorgeous turquoise bay is one of the most beautiful places in Devon !

Torquay and Paignton are the two largest towns. Both have some lovely beaches and lots of nostalgic seaside vibes. If you’re looking for the classic English seaside experience, this is the place to come!

Torquay is a little more upscale, with lots of grand Victorian villas and parks. Paignton is a little more ‘cheap and cheerful’ and feels a bit run down in spots. But it has some lovely beaches (Goodrington and Broadsands in particular), plus a retro Victorian pier lined with funfair rides and arcades.

Best Things to do in the English Riviera

• Go Underground at Kents Cavern, a network of caves directly beneath Torquay.
• Take the steam train to Dartmouth .
• Walk the Agatha Christie Trail – the world-famous crime fiction writer was born in Torquay and lots of locations here appear in her novels. Or take a guided tour (from £28pp) – click here for more info .
• Hop aboard the Babbacombe Cliff Railway, a 1920s furnicular down to the red sands of Oddicombe Beach.

Brixham is also on the English Riviera, but has a very different vibe to Torquay and Paington. Colourful fishermen’s cottages are clustered onto the hillside above Brixham’s busy working harbour. This is home to one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK, so the seafood scene in Brixham is unbeatable!

You can take fishing trips and boat tours from the harbour, or take a tour of the harbourside Fish Market with a fish breakfast at the excellent Rockfish restaurant. Don’t miss the lifesize replica of the Golden Hind, Fransic Drake’s ship!

It’s not all about the south coast in Devon – there are plenty of amazing places to visit in the county’s gorgeous rural interior, too. And one of my personal favourites is Dartmoor National Park .

Honestly, I could wax lyrical about this place – but I’ll try to contain myself! It’s one of England’s last true wildernesses: a vast area of heather-strewn moors, towering granite tors (hilltop boulders) and dense forests. And mystery! Legends, folklore and ghost stories abound on Dartmoor, and amidst these dramatic landscapes its easy to start believing them.

Don’t miss the impossibly cute village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor, the ancient Bronze Age settlement at Grimspound , or the iconic Haytor Rocks – a great spot for a walk. I also love the walk along the old Princetown Railway out to King’s Tor and the historic Foggintor Quarry.

Right in the heart of rural south Devon sits Totnes, the UK’s first Transition Town and probably the most ethical town in England! It was one of the very first towns in The Transition Network , a worldwide movement through which communities aim to tackle global crises at a local level.

The result is a creative, community-minded town with one of the most independent high streets you’ll ever find. The veggie/vegan food scene is STRONG here. Don’t miss Riverford Field Kitchen for a seasonal, farm-to-fork dining experience.

There’s also a lot of history to discover – particularly the anceint Totnes Castle – as well as the serene, wildlife-rich River Dart. Totnes sits at the head of the Dart Estuary; you can take ferry rides and boat tours to Dartmouth, or hop on a kayak/SUP to explore.

Just west of Dartmouth, the wide sweep of Start Bay is one of the most beautiful spots along this stretch of coast.

Slapton Sands sits at the centre of the bay: a narrow strip of shingle beach between the sea on one side and a huge lake on the other. The lake, Slapton Ley, is surrounded by a wildlife-rich nature reserve and makes an excellent spot for a walk. You can get a fantastic view of it all from on high as you drive out of the village of Strete. Driving across the thin strip of Slapton Sands is a fun experience, too.

At the southwestern end of the bay, Start Point is a great area for hiking and adventures. Hit the coast path to glimpse the remains of South Hallsands village, washed away by a terrible storm in 1917, and to visit Start Point Lighthouse. Follow the path around the headland to reach the remote, crescent-shaped beach at Mattiscombe Sands. Chances are, you’ll have the place to yourself!

Just northeast from Torquay sits another historic seaside town: Teignmouth. There’s a grand Victorian pier, a pretty Georgian seafront, and a striking rust-coloured sandy beach.

Beyond the nostalgic beach vibes, Teignmouth also has an excellent food scene. It sits at the mouth of the River Teign (hence the imaginative name!), so is surrounded by excellent produce. There are mussel and oyster beds on the river, lots of fertile farmland, and a fantastic local fishing industry.

Just along the coast from Teignmouth, Dawlish Warren is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in south Devon.

Dwalish Warren itself is a small village known for its cheap-and-cheerful holiday parks and retro amusement park. But just outside of the town sits Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve – the perfect place to get away from it all.

The reserve is right on the mouth of the Exe Estuary, one of the most important locations for migrating birds known for its rich and varied wildlife thorughout the year. And skirting this nature reserve is an idyllic – and often almost empty – white-sand beach backed by grass-topped dunes.

Last, but definitely not least, on this list of the best places to visit in South Devon, we have the Tamar Valley Area of Natural Beauty . Just north of Plymouth, this is a rich rural landscape full of rolling valleys and picturesque woodland.

Here, history and nature collide. Though Cornwall is more famous for its mining heritage, West Devon had its share of mines – particularly around the Tamar Valley. Don’t miss the ancient stannary town of Tavistock, a beautiful little place with a great independent shopping scene, or Morewellham Quay , a living museum where you can take a ride on an underground mine train!

The Tamar Valley is also a great place for walking and biking. Try Drake’s Trail , a 21-mile cycling and walking route between Tavistock and Plymouth. You can do the whole thing, or just a section!

Below, I’ve listed a few of the top attractions dotted around South Devon. These aren’t quite ‘places to visit’ but they’re all great additions to any holiday.

• Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company – take a steam train from Paignton to Dartmouth, river cruise to Totnes, then a bus back to Paignton. You can do this ‘Round Robin’ trip in any order.
• Greenway – a grand white country manor once owned by Agatha Christie.
• Buckland Abbey – a manor house built from a 700-year-old Cistercian monastery, once home to Francis Drake.
• Saltram House – historic property near Plymouth used as a filming location for Sense and Sensibility.
• Overbeck’s Garden – beautiful clifftop gardens near Salcombe.
• The Miniature Pony Centre to meet Dartmoor’s most famous residents!
• Salcbome Gin School – distill your own bottle of gin!
• The Shops at Dartington – posh boutique shops on the Dartington Estate.
• Sandridge Barton – a vineyard near Dartmouth and the home of Sharpham Wine .

A quick round up of the best beaches to visit when you hit the south Devon coast!

• South Milton Sands
• Dawlish Warren
• Bantham Beach, near Bigbury-on-Sea (one of the south coast’s best surfing beaches)
• Blackpool Sands, near Dartmouth
• South Sands and North Sands , Salcombe
• Anstey’s Cove, Torquay
• Goodrington Beach, Paignton
• Broadsands Beach, Paignton
• Torre Abbey Sands, Torquay
• Mattiscombe Sands, Start Point (can only be reached by walking)
• Ness Cove Beach, Teignmouth
• Wembury Beach, near Plymouth

Best Places to Visit in Devon

50 Unique Things to do in Dorset

Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of England

Best Places to Vist in South England

Are there any more great places to visit in South Devon that I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments!

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Go South West England

30+ Amazing Things to do in South Devon: Cities & Nature

There are so many things to do in South Devon.

From ancient ruins to dramatic hidden coves, this part of the county has lots of tourist infrastructure, but also plenty of hidden spots where you can get away from the crowds.

There’s plenty to do for family holidays, but the coastal walks and restaurants pack a punch for adulrts.

In the summer, South Devon enjoys mild weather with plenty of sunshine (it doesn’t have the crazy heatwaves that other parts of the country do, but it’s still nice and warm!) perfect for a trip away by the seaside.

However, it’s also worth visiting South Devon out of season – you’ll still witness a beautiful landscape, plenty of indoor attractions and top-class cuisine, but there are fewer crowds!

I live in Exmouth in East Devon, just over the River Exe from South Devon, so I visit all of these spots frequently.

I used to spend a lot of time in South Devon as a child too, so I’ve been to many of the family attractions that I mention, both as a kid and as an adult with other kids in the family!

Table of Contents

Where is South Devon?

South Devon is all the way nearly at the bottom of the country.

Sitting on the south coast of the UK, it sits next to Cornwall.

South Devon encompasses the South Hams, Torbay and Teignbridge regions of Devon, although I might add a couple of entries for West Devon here as well.

Plymouth and Exeter are also kind of their own thing, but I’m going to include them in this blog post.

Although East Devon and the Jurassic Coast runs along the south coast as well, I’m going to write a separate travel guide for this region.

Here’s a map to illustrate it all better. Basically, as far as this post is concerned, South Devon runs from Dawlish Warren to Plymouth and inland a little.

Best things to do in South Devon

Walk along the west side of the exe estuary.

The Exe Estuary technically marks the border between Teignbridge and East Devon.

On the east side, you’ll find Exmouth, Lympstone and Topsham, whereas Powderham Castle, Starcross and Dawlish Warren are on the west!

You can follow the path down the western side of the Exe Estuary as it spans from near Exeter all the way down to Dawlish Warren in the south.

There’s a popular cycling and hiking route that you can take from Exeter all the way down to the coast.

Or, you can take a boat from Starcross to Exmouth.

Explore Powderham Castle

Powderham Castle is a grand stately home sitting on the banks of the River Exe.

Dating back to 1390 when it was built by Sir Philip Courtenay, Powderham Castle was (and still is!) the seat of the Earl of Devon.

It was the home of a siege in the Civil War, and has historically been one of the most important places to visit in Devon.

Nowadays, you can visit the historic rooms of the house and learn about the area’s past. There are also some beautiful gardens to explore.

Take a hot air balloon flight from Exeter

One of the most bucket-list activities that you can do in South Devon is to take a hot-air balloon flight over the Devonshire countryside.

This hot air balloon flight takes off from the city and enjoys gorgeous sweeping vistas of both the countryside and coast.

You’ll be in the sky for an hour and witness some of Devon’s best scenery from the sky.

Either enjoy the panoramic vistas for sunrise or sunset!

After landing, enjoy a champagne toast.

Have some old-fashioned family seaside fun at Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren is one of the most popular seaside resorts in South Devon.

There’s all you need for a family day out here, including Funder Park which has some great amusements for kids of all ages.

Dawlish Warren has a blue flag beach – this is a prestigious award given to some British beaches due to their excellent water quality.

You can see all of the best things to do in Dawlish and Dawlish Warren here.

Eat a traditional cream tea in Dawlish

Dawlish town is full of traditional tea rooms and British pubs.

One of my favourites is Annie’s tea house.

This friendly cafe offers sumptuous cream teas and tasty savoury meals like jacket potatoes and sandwiches.

You can even order a cream tea which comes with a pot of tea or coffee – plant-based milk included!

Visit Forest Fungi, the mushroom farm of Dawlish

Forest Fungi is a fantastic sustainable restaurant, attached to its own mushroom farm.

Famous for their breakfasts (which all include mushrooms of course!), the cafe also offers BBQ food in the evenings from Thursdays to Sundays.

Walk along the sea wall from Dawlish Warren to Teignmouth

The scenic railway line runs from Teignmouth Beach to the headland at Holcombe.

The railway spans through a tunnel through the headland at Holcombe, and it then spans from this headland to Dawlish.

You’ll enjoy gorgeous views out to the ocean and smell the salty sea air as you walk!

This is part of the South West Coastal Path.

If you don’t want to walk, you can take the South Devon railway from Dawlish Warren to Teignmouth .

This is largely thought to be one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the country, especially on a sunny day!

Find the hidden Ness Cove Beach in Shaldon

There are lots of beautiful beaches in South Devon, but Ness Beach is one of the best hidden gems!

You can reach it from Shaldon by walking down a historic smuggler’s tunnel.

When you reach the end of the tunnel, enjoy the vistas of beautiful golden sands and the epic towering cliffs.

Due to its relative isolation, it’s one of the quieter beaches even in the summer months, when other beaches in the county are packed.

Discover the curious history of Buckfast Abbey

Sitting on the edge of Dartmoor, Buckfast Abbey dates back to 1018, although it was demolished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539.

Ultimately, a Gothic mansion house was built, although the site was purchased by French Benedictine monks in 1882; it was then ultimately reinstated as an abbey in 1902, and the church was consecrated in 1932.

Buckfast tonic wine has been brewed in the abbey since the monks took it over, and it’s become somewhat renowned for the drink!

Nowadays, visitors head to the monastery to try some of the wine and learn about its fascinating in-depth history!

Go back in time at Kent’s Cavern Prehistoric Caves

Down in Torbay, one of the best attractions is Kent’s Cavern Prehistoric Caves

These are located close to the coastal town of Torquay .

These natural caves have been part of Torbay life for 2,000 years, although they’re estimated to date back 12,500 years old, and were home to 50,000 artefacts.

It’s thought that bears, lions and mammoths once roamed the caves!

The caves have been run by the same family since 1865 and you can see them on a fascinating tour.

Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari

Fancy heading out on a boat from the seaside town of Torquay?

This Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari takes in some of the best beaches in the area, the beautiful rock formations and then heads to some of the best areas where dolphins and other marine animals frequent.

You can read more about this Seafari here.

Explore the majestic Torre Abbey

Dating back to 1196, Torre Abbey became the wealthiest monastery in Medieval England.

Like other monasteries, the abbey was closed after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries.

After 1662, the Cary family lived there and adapted the abbey as a private house.

They lived there for nearly 300 years, before the council bought the abbey and adapted it into a tourist attraction.

Nowadays, it houses exhibitions with 18th to 21st century artwork and an 800 years gallery which tells the story of the abbey.

Escape from the rain at Bygones Museum

Bygones Museum boasts over 2,000 authentic curiosities and antiquities from the last few centuries of British history.

Learn about Victorian history with a real-life, 27-tonne steam train or walk through the World War One trenches.

If you’re visiting Devon in the rain and looking for indoor attractions, this is your place!

Beach hop in Torbay

Affectionately known as “The English Riviera”, Torbay was a popular summer holiday destination in the 1960s onwards.

Nowadays, it’s

There are so many beautiful beaches around Torbay (many with palm trees!) so this stretch of coastline is perfect for enjoying golden sands against the bright blue water. Here are the best beaches in the Torbay area:

• Oddicombe Beach: Close to Torquay town centre, Oddicombe Beach is a beautiful cove with bright green plants on the cliffs either side.
• Anstey’s Cove: This breathtaking beach is located between Torbay and Babbacombe and is a stunning cove with a small shingle beach.
• Meadfoot Beach: This beautiful beach is a strip of white sand contrasting against the bright blue water and green bushes.
• Goodrington Sands: This beach is just to the west of Paignton. It’s a lovely stretch of sand with plenty of attractions, including Splashdown Quaywest water park.

Wine tasting in Torbay

This Torbay wine-tasting tour is a fantastic budget-friendly activity to do, especially if British weather gets the best of you when in Devon!

Your guide will walk you through a few wines from all over the world, with a connoisseur who knows all there is to know about the drink!

Find out more about the tasting here.

Take a spin on the famous Paignton Pier

Paignton Pier , spanning out from the main beach of the town, is one of Devon’s best family-friendly attractions.

Full of rides and amusements, this fun attraction is great for all the family.

It also boasts plenty of food outlets, including ice cream stalls and fish and chip stands.

At 240 metres, it’s the longest pier in Devon and dates back to 1879 (slightly younger than Teignmouth’s which dates back to 1867.

Soar around rides at Splashdown Quaywest, the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark

Also in Paignton is Splashdown Quaywest. This is the UK’s largest all-outdoor waterpark, with eight water slides of varying levels.

I reviewed this park this summer , and while I was a little underwhelmed, I can see how it offers family fun, especially for adrenaline chasers.

I did enjoy the spectacular views of the red cliffs from the top of the slides!

Explore National Trust Greenway, home of Agatha Christie

One of the most famous Devonian residents is the famous novelist Agatha Christie.

Close to Dartmouth, on the banks of the River Dart, you can find her manor house, which is a snapshot of 1950s life.

It was one of her eight residences, but she spent many a summer and Christmas here.

Nowadays, the building is a National Trust property, so you can explore, learn about the famous author’s life and enjoy the gorgeous river views that she once relished in.

Admire Dartmouth Castle

Greenway isn’t the only historical attraction in Dartmouth.

Dartmouth Castle dates back to the 14th century and enjoys breathtaking vistas over the coastline.

The castle historically defended the entrance to the Dart Estuary, which was always a vulnerable place in Devon that could have been invaded.

Nowadays, it’s a tourist attraction that’s run by the English Heritage. Walk around and learn about Medieval defensive history or just enjoy the incredible estuary and sea views!

Board a boat in Dartmouth and sail to Totnes

Board the Dart Explorer to get between the town and the equally impressive settlement of Totnes, enjoying some beautiful nature along the way.

The Dart Explorer takes around 90 minutes to plow the distance between the two towns.

If you want to see more of the area, you could opt for the Round Robin ticket, which includes a bus to Paignton and a train to Kingswear, which sits just on the other side of the River Dart.

Explore the ruins of Totnes Castle

Totnes Castle also has an impressive English Heritage-run castle.

Totnes Castle is a Norman motte and bailey castle that was built to defend the histoirc Saxon town.

A stone shell-keep was added later, which you can climb to the top of for breathtaking views of the town and River Dart.

It’s also worth learning about the World War Two history of the castle – you can see graffiti left on trees by prisoners of war.

Walk around Totnes, one of Devon’s most historic towns

After visiting Totnes Castle, it’s worth taking a walk around the town as well.

There are so many things to see in Totnes , including the 11th century Totnes Guildhall and the Totnes Museum.

You can also follow the Totnes Town Trail to see some of the most impressive historical buildings, or take the South Devon Railway to explore the surrounding countryside – it runs all the way to Buckfastleigh!

Taste some gin at Salcombe

After all that exploring, it might be time for a drink!

If you visit Salcombe, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some of their locally-made tipples at the Salcombe Gin Distillery .

This distillery offers tours where you can try all of their most delicious gins, plus learn a little about the business and its origins.

If you don’t fancy the full tour, just head to the bar where you can try a local gin or a wide range of other beverages. Don’t drink? Salcombe does a great alcohol-free gin!

Watersports at Salcombe Estuary

Salcombe is a beautiful harbour town that boasts both river and sea vistas.

It’s most famous for Salcombe gin, but it’s also an incredibly photogenic place with some excellent beaches and plenty of independent shops and restaurants.

Salcombe Harbour is an excellent place for watersports. With Salcombe Watersports, you can hire a paddle board or take lessons or try your hand at kayaking.

Admire the sandy beaches on a coastal walk around Hope Cove

Hope Cove is one of my favourite places in South Devon.

Sitting on the rocky coastline in the south of the county, Hope Cove boasts two beaches and sits in the heart of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) .

Explore Mouthwell Sands, which is right by the main car park in town, and enjoy the Harbour Beach which is a shorter walk away.

You can walk the South West Coast Path, one of the UK’s best walking trails, around this area – or it’s also an excellent place for a beach day!

Head out to Burgh Island from Bigbury-on-Sea

Bigbury-on-Sea is one of the best beaches in Devon and is another ideal location for paddle boarding.

However, thanks to the fact that it has bigger waves than most South Devon beaches (as they mostly face the English Channel, surfing isn’t as popular here as in North Devon!), it’s also quite a popular surfing destination!

Bigbury-on-Sea’s other main draw is it’s connected to Burgh Island, which is connected to the mainland by a small spit and is home to an Art Deco Hotel.

Do a historic walking tour around Plymouth Barbican

Plymouth Barbican is one of the most fascinating areas of the city – and

You’ll learn about the city’s connection with Sir Francis Drake , its connection to Katherine of Aragon and of course, the importance of the Mayflower Pilgrimage.

This tour will also take you to Plymouth Hoe, where you can enjoy amazing sea views of the entire of Plymouth Sound.

It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Plymouth !

Visit Plymouth gin distillery, the oldest continuously operating gin distillery in the world

I know this is the second gin distillery I’ve got on this list – but it’s worth visiting them both, trust me!

Plymouth Gin Distillery sits just back from the Barbican.

It’s the oldest continuously operating gin distillery in the world, and you can learn all about its fascinating history on a tour, which also includes information about its distilling process and a tasting.

You can book a tour via their website.

It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re spending a weekend in Plymouth !

Learn about the Mayflower steps in Plymouth

One of Plymouth’s most significant tales is that of the Mayflower Pilgrimage.

Today, you can see “The Mayflower Steps” which is allegedly where the pilgrims departed from.

However , they are actually a replica from the early 20th century, rather than the physical steps that the pilgrims descended down before boarding the Mayflower.

There is a plaque commemorating the departure of the ship and its significance.

It is worth taking a look inside the Mayflower Pilgrim Visitor Centre which is above the Tourist Information Centre just opposite the steps and is a fascinating exhibition all about the journey.

Take a Red Coat guided tour in Exeter

There’s a wonderful way to get around Devon’s other city.

Red Coat Tours are definitely the best things to do in Exeter .

Run by local guides who are really passionate about the Devon city’s history, you can choose between a Cathedral to Quay tour, a Medieval tour, a tour about the hidden areas of Exeter, a Georgian Exeter tour or many more!

Take a look at the Exeter gov website to find out more.

Red Coat Tours are completely free.

If you want to learn more about the rich history of Exeter and Devon, I recommend checking out the Royal Albert Memorial Museum .

Admire Exeter Cathedral

If you’re spending a weekend in Exeter , another attraction that you can’t miss is Exeter Cathedral .

There has been a cathedral on this site since the 7th century, although the building that you see today was built between 1258 – 1400 AD, after a bishop visited Salisbury Cathedral and was jealous that Exeter’s wasn’t as grand!

It boasts the longest uninterrupted Medieval Gothic Vaulting in the world, along with a crypt, several impressive stained glass windows, several chapels and an astronomical clock.

You can visit during a service free of charge, or if you want to look around some more, you can see it during visiting hours.

Go underground in Exeter Underground Passages

There’s an extensive labyrinth of tunnels spanning under Exeter.

These underground passages date back to Medieval times when they were used to bring clean drinking water to the city.

Nowadays, they can be visited on a guided tour.

Your guide will take you underground and detail some of Exeter’s Medieval history on the way.

Not only is it a really cool experience, but you’ll learn lots of interesting facts about Medieval Exeter as you go!

Shop in the Pannier Markets in Tavistock

There are quite a lot of things to do in Tavistock , and I think it’s a really underrated South Devon town.

One of the best parts is its beautiful pannier markets, which date back to 1105 when Tavistock got its royal charter and first gained permission to hold a market in the town.

Originally, the markets sold food. Nowadays, they’re a little different, and mainly offer gifts and other trinkets!

However, they’re set in a beautiful historic building and are the ideal place to purchase any Devon souvenirs.

Explore Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park is a bucket-list place to visit in Devon.

Although it’s kind of a region of its own, the southern part of the park is very close to the South Devon coastline.

Spanning 954 km², the park is one of the most famous and impressive open spaces in the UK. It’s also the only place you can legally wild camp in England!

Here are some of the best things to do in Dartmoor:

• explore the ancient woodland of Wistman’s Wood
• walk across the clapper bridge at Postbridge
• hike up its many tors and admire the view
• walk around Burrator Reservoir
• see some of the best waterfalls in Devon , such as Cantonteign Falls
• tour the Dartmoor Prison Museum
• enjoy countless hikes
• camp out for the night!

What is better South or North Devon?

They’re both different, and I wouldn’t say one is better than the other!

North Devon is one of the best places in the UK for surfing, with its wild Atlantic Ocean coastline.

Expect craggy cliffs with dramatic views and somewhat isolated towns and villages. It’s a great place for outdoor activities, although there are a few wet weather activities too.

South Devon, on the other hand, has golden beaches and a milder climate – which is why you’ll find palm trees here!

It also has a few more attractions – although there are plenty of things to do in North Devon too.

I’d say that North Devon is marginally better for adventurous types, and South Devon is best for families and people who want a beach holiday – but it’s worth exploring both if you can!

is North or South Devon better for beaches? 

It’s hard to say. North Devon’s beaches are more crashing and dramatic, but the weather isn’t as good. South Devon has golden sands with palm trees and generally calmer weather!

South Devon’s top attractions!

Whether you love outdoor adventures in breathtaking landscapes, top-class cuisine in fine dining or hearty British restaurants or activities for kids, South Devon is the perfect destination for a fun holiday by the coast!

See my other Devon guides!

There are so many things to do in Devon, and South Devon is just one area! Here are my other guides to different Devon regions:

• things to do in North Devon
• things to do in East Devon
• things to do in Mid Devon
• things to do in Dartmoor

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Top Things to Do in South Devon - South Devon Must-See Attractions

Things to Do in South Devon

Explore popular experiences, popular cities in south devon.

Ways to tour South Devon

Half Day Guided Canoe Trip in Totnes

Gun Range Shooting Experience in Newton Abbot

Luxury Private Rib Tour to Babbacombe Bay from Exmouth Marina

South West Coast Path Walking South Devon Coastline (9 days, 8 nights)

Dartmoor Tour in Luxury Mercedes 7 x seater

Devon Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

South Devon coastal tour in luxury 7 x seat Mercedes

Half Day Sea kayak Guided Tour

South Devon Tour App Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz UK

Half day Paddleboarding exploration on the Dart

Top attractions in south devon.

Outdoor Activities

Tours & sightseeing, private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

Top Things to Do in South Devon

Places to Visit in South Devon

Explore popular experiences, popular cities in south devon.

Ways to tour South Devon

Half Day Guided Canoe Trip in Totnes

Gun Range Shooting Experience in Newton Abbot

Luxury Private Rib Tour to Babbacombe Bay from Exmouth Marina

South West Coast Path Walking South Devon Coastline (9 days, 8 nights)

Dartmoor Tour in Luxury Mercedes 7 x seater

Devon Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

South Devon coastal tour in luxury 7 x seat Mercedes

Half Day Sea kayak Guided Tour

South Devon Tour App Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz UK

Half day Paddleboarding exploration on the Dart

Top attractions in south devon.

Outdoor Activities

Tours & sightseeing, private & custom tours, what travellers are saying.

15 Best Things To Do In South Devon

If you find yourself watching pictures of the gorgeous landscapes that South Devon has to offer and want to embark on a journey at this very moment, we have a treat for you. To make your planning easier, we made a list of all the best things to do in South Devon.

Our list contains options for adventurers, history buffs and watersports lovers, so you’re sure to find something for you. You’ll also uncover some additional tips and tricks to help you make your journey as budget-friendly and comfortable as possible. After reading this guide, you’re only one vehicle rental away from your dream escapade.

Table Of Contents

• 1 Where Is South Devon?
• 2.1 1. Powderham Castle
• 2.2 2. Dartmoor National Park
• 2.3 3. Salcombe Gin Distillery
• 2.4 4. Dartmoor Zoo
• 2.5 5. Buckfast Abbey
• 2.6 6. The Box
• 2.7 7. National Marine Aquarium
• 2.8 8. Torbay Beaches
• 2.9 9. Tamar Valley
• 2.10 10. The Barbican
• 2.11 11. Dartmouth Castle
• 2.12 12. Pannier Markets
• 2.13 13. The Mayflower
• 2.14 14. River Dart Country Park
• 2.15 15. Drakes Trail
• 3 Tips For Exploring South Devon On A Budget
• 4 Best Time To Visit South Devon
• 5 Fun Facts About South Devon
• 6.1 How Can You Get To South Devon?
• 6.2 What Is The Best Way To Get Around South Devon?
• 6.3 Is South Devon A Nice Place To Live?
• 6.4 How Long Do You Need To Explore South Devon?
• 6.5 What Is South Devon Famous For?
• 7 Conclusion

Where Is South Devon?

South Devon is in the southwest part of England and is part of the larger county of Devon. The area encapsulates a great mix of outstanding natural beauty, beautiful beaches , historical places and an overall vibrant culture.

The South Devon beaches are the biggest highlight, and every sea lover will fall in love with them. You can expect to find stunning sandy beaches, secluded coves, rugged cliffs and scenic landscapes on the South Devon coast.

South Devon has a lot of charm, from historic towns and ancient ruins to walking trails and independent shops. Here are our picks of the places to visit in South Devon.

1. Powderham Castle

If historic sites are your preference and you plan on visiting South Devon, make sure to find time to visit Powderham Castle. The castle, which dates back to the 14th century , was built by Sir Philip Courtenay. Situated on the River Exe and with such a long and fascinating history, this iconic landmark has stood the test of time.

Powderham Castle showcases a mix of architectural styles, and visitors can see the interior with their own eyes if they decide to embark on a guided tour. There is also the option of organising a wedding there, so you can tie the knot in a way that beats your imagination.

The castle is also close to Exeter, so it’s a great way to combine a visit to both places and get to experience what life in Exeter is like.

2. Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park is a vast and rugged moorland. It boasts diverse flora and fauna and you’re sure to enjoy dramatic landscapes when you visit it. The park itself covers an extensive area of 954 square kilometres . One of its most famous features is its distinctive granite tors, which are unique rock formations sculpted with weathering.

The Dartmoor National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Dartmoor ponies, sheep, birds and rare species such as marsh fritillary butterflies. The park offers a lot of walking trails that lead to the summit of the tors, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. This makes it a great choice for hikers, nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventures.

The Dartmoor National Park was named the UK’s top stargazing spot .

3. Salcombe Gin Distillery

As the very name suggests, this distillery is nestled in Salcombe, in South Devon. This location is a notable spot for all gin enthusiasts and those who want a taste of artisanal craftsmanship.

Salcombe Gin has gained recognition for its high-quality products and has received various awards for its distinctive gin. Visitors have the opportunity to embark on a guided tour of the distillery to learn all the juicy secrets of the gin-making process, from the selection of botanicals to the distillation methods.

This tour is a great opportunity to gain a behind-the-scenes perspective on this premium gin. And of course, at the very end, there is a tasting experience where you can sip on different kinds of gins.

4. Dartmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo was created in the 1960s, and its purpose was to serve as a private exotic animal collection. Now, it’s open to visitors who can enjoy the unique and immersive experience. Nestled on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, it offers a picturesque setting surrounded by natural beauty.

Dartmoor Zoo gained significant recognition after the release of the film We Bought a Zoo , which was based on the memoir of zoo CEO Benjamin Mee .

It’s home to a diverse range of animals, including amur leopard, African pygmy goats, white-cheeked turacos, axanthic blue iguanas, etc. Being here all day and admiring these exotic creatures will surely get you hungry and thirsty. You’ll be pleased to know you can get a steaming hot cup of coffee or have a meal at Jaguar Restaurant.

5. Buckfast Abbey

Buckfast Abbey traces its roots back to the early 11th century when it was founded as an abbey. The church is built in a Gothic style, and the gardens and grounds surrounding the abbey also add to its aesthetic appeal.

This place is open to visitors, and it’s sure to offer you a unique blend of spiritual, historical and cultural experiences. For as little as £2, you can also explore The Monastic Way Exhibition . It’s an immersive presentation that will help you understand everything about Benedictine monastic life and its history, from its very origins to the present day.

When it comes to the monks that are situated there, they engage in various productive activities, such as maintaining the grounds and gardens and producing honey, cream and the famous Buckfast Tonic Wine .

Plymouth is one of South Devon’s gems that can offer something for everyone. It has a rich history but it also provides its visitors with green spaces for outdoor activities and entertaining family attractions. If, however, the most important thing about your South Devon visit is to learn as much as you can, then The Box Museum won’t disappoint you.

It serves as a hub for exploring the history, art and culture of Plymouth. It features all kinds of exhibits, artefacts and interactive displays that will help you understand the role that this place played in history.

Now, the box has its artsy side as well. It houses a dynamic collection of art, both from local and international artists. And for those who like to delve super deep into history, there is an extensive archive to serve as a valuable resource.

The Box is completely free to visit, making it great for anyone on a budget.

7. National Marine Aquarium

Britain’s ocean city also prides itself on being the location of the UK’s largest aquarium. If you wish to have a unique family day, the National Marine Aquarium will offer you a fascinating journey into the marine world.

The focus is on the diverse ecosystems of the local waters. The exhibits will show you a wide variety of sharks, rays and other impressive marine species. Beyond the exhibits, this place also conducts research projects, educational programs and campaigns to raise awareness about marine issues.

If you don’t just want a simple visit to South Devon for family holidays but are actually thinking of moving there, make sure to check out our guide on the best places to live in Plymouth .

8. Torbay Beaches

Torbay, often called the English Riviera and the South Hams, is the place to visit if you want to see the most stunning South Devon coastline. Devon’s beaches overall are well-known for their clean waters and nice views.

Torbay has over 20 different beaches, and there are both sand and shingle beach options. The most famous ones include Torrey Abbey Sands, Paignton Beach, Goodrington Sands, Meadfoot Beach and Oddicombe Beach. If you don’t like to walk, you can see all these sights while driving on a South Devon railway.

The South West Coast Path also boasts Blackpool Sands and Burgh Island, two amazing places to visit if you like coastal walks and excursions. Blackpool Sands is a blue flag beach surrounded by evergreen trees. It also boasts golden sands. The beach is located near Dartmouth South Sands and North Sands.

While you’re in the south coast area, make sure to spice up your trip with boat tours and paddle boarding lessons Newton Abbot, a historic market town, is close to the English Riviera, so you can check it out as well.

9. Tamar Valley

When looking for places to visit in South Devon, don’t miss a chance to see Tamar Valley, an area designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty . Tamar Valley is located on the border between Devon and Cornwall, and it’s famous for its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystem.

The River Tamar is a prominent feature of the valley; it supports a variety of wildlife. The best part is that the river is navigable by boat. But the Tamar Valley isn’t only a natural sight; it also tells a story about the area’s significant role in mining history. To get a full scoop on it, you can see Morwellham Quay , an open-air museum and visitor centre.

10. The Barbican

If you want to explore a historic area with narrow cobbled streets, then the Barbican in Plymouth should be your next destination. This place stands as a testament to the exciting history of this city. One of the most prominent landmarks is the Mayflower Steps , a historic site where the Pilgrims are believed to have embarked on their journey to the New World in 1620.

Take advantage of the proximity of Plymouth Hoe and visit that iconic spot as well. There are also other attractions and various gift shop options for you to buy something unique from local artists. You also have local pubs and fine dining restaurant choices. And on top of that, the waterfront setting will provide you with scenic views of Plymouth Sound.

11. Dartmouth Castle

Dartmouth Castle is one more spot on the list of South Devon’s historical places. It’s a fortress that has played a significant role in defending the estuary of the River Dart for over 600 years. Today, tourists can enjoy interactive displays that showcase the castle’s military history. You’ll get to learn all the important information about the weapons used for defence while you also feast your eyes on the panoramic views of the river and the surrounding coastline.

The guided tour also includes a story about John Hawley , who inspired the flamboyant ‘Shipman’ in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. If you happen to be a wildlife enthusiast, you can take a ferry ride, which will provide you with a chance to spot some of the local species that surround this castle.

12. Pannier Markets

Pannier markets are known for their diverse offerings and vibrant atmosphere. The markets played a crucial role in local commerce in the past. Today, the tradition continues, and many people still visit them. South Devon boasts amazing pannier markets in Totnes and Tavistock . Both markets offer an array of products, including fresh ingredients, handmade crafts, vintage items and locally sourced goods.

The term ‘pannier’ refers to donkey-drawn baskets used to transport food to and from markets.

Pannier markets in Tavistock operate from Tuesday until Saturday, while Totnes Pannier market opens its doors every Friday and Saturday. While you’re there, we definitely recommend checking out Totnes Castle. You can enjoy the views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Shopping in these markets will provide you with an authentic experience of local culture, plus you’ll get to taste all the delicious offerings they have.

13. The Mayflower

If you want to get into the nitty-gritty of the Pilgrim’s journey to the New World, The Mayflower Museum has made it its mission to preserve and share the history of the Mayflower and its significant role in overall history. The museum will help you explore the historical context, challenges and impact of the pioneering voyage.

The museum showcases artefacts and documents that provide you with a deeper understanding of the pilgrim’s voyage. In addition to static exhibits, the museum may offer educational programmes and activities for visitors of all ages.

There is also a shop where you can purchase unique souvenirs connected to the Mayflower.

14. River Dart Country Park

Set in Dartmoor National Park, the award-winning River Dart Country Park has become one of the to-go places to experience family fun and enjoy outdoor activities. It boasts 90 acres under which you can find excellent camping facilities. You can use it as a starting point to explore the area or you could simply dedicate yourself to the many activities this park offers.

Your little ones will especially be entertained by the Kid’s Zone which is packed with all kinds of fun challenges. Adrenaline junkies can try out Dartmoor Bike Park . The park offers annual memberships for those who want to enjoy the park’s perks regularly.

15. Drakes Trail

Drakes Trail is South Devon’s multi-use recreational route that offers a picturesque way for walkers and cyclists to explore the stunning countryside South Devon has to offer. This route connects Tavistock, on the western edge of Dartmoor National Park, with Plymouth, on the south coast of Devon.

The trail was named after Sir Francis Drake. It incorporates a mix of pathways, so there are suitable areas for both cyclists and pedestrians. While you roam around the area, you’ll encounter diverse landscapes, such as wooded areas, river valleys and open countryside.

Don’t forget to snap some photos along the way to add some shine to your Insta feed. Since the route is really popular among cyclists, there are places along the way where you can rent a bike if you don’t have your own.

Tips For Exploring South Devon On A Budget

Now that you have decided which places you want to visit in South Devon, we might as well help you not go bankrupt while doing so.

• First, it’s worth noting that this area boasts a large number of natural attractions that are completely free. Take advantage of that and embark on fun hikes and walks.
• Look for budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, and it’s even better if you decide on travelling off-season when prices tend to be even lower.
• You can also consult with the locals on online forums to gather some inside knowledge on the best way to save money while in the area.

SDVH offers a budget car for hire for daring adventurers and passenger vans for larger groups. Whether you’re travelling solo or with your squad, you can contact us to find a suitable vehicle.

Best Time To Visit South Devon

The best time to visit South Devon’s attractions is in late spring and early autumn. Travelling during this time will expose you to milder weather and fewer crowds since the summer months are usually packed with tourists. Plus, the temperature will still be pleasant, so you can embark on outdoor activities and coastal walks.

If you’re a social butterfly who likes to party, however, you should consider visiting in the summer since that’s when the vibrant festivals take place. The British weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always advisable to check forecasts before planning your journey.

Since you’re already planning a South Devon excursion, consider checking out attractions in East Devon as well; it’ll give you a more well-rounded experience of the beauty that Devon has to offer.

Fun Facts About South Devon

Learning about a location doesn’t just come down to budget planning and attraction research. To help you get to know the region better, we have prepared some interesting facts about it:

• South Devon is part of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast.
• The renowned writer Agatha Christie was born in Torquay, South Devon.
• Brixham, a historic village in South Devon, has a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship, the Golden Hind.
• Dawlish town is home to a large population of black swans.
• Newton Abbot Racecourse is one of the country’s leading summer jump racing venues.
• Pennywell Farm offers hands-on experience with famous Pennywell miniature pigs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you get to south devon.

You can get to South Devon by driving . You can access South Devon through the M5 motorway, which runs from Birmingham to Exeter. South Devon is also well-connected by train services, with the main line from London taking visitors to cities like Exeter and Plymouth and various other destinations. The bus services also offer transportation to South Devon from various destinations.

What Is The Best Way To Get Around South Devon?

The best way to get around South Devon is by car . Hiring a car will provide you with the flexibility of organising your journey and exploring more remote areas and coastal spots. Alternatively, you can board public buses and trains that connect all the major towns and attractions. Walking to nearby locations is also an option.

Is South Devon A Nice Place To Live?

Yes , South Devon is a nice place to live. The region offers a relaxed pace of life, outdoor activities and a sense of community. However, like with any other location, whether you like it will depend on your personal preference. Living in Devon definitely has its pros, but consider factors such as job opportunities, amenities and lifestyle preferences before making a final decision.

How Long Do You Need To Explore South Devon?

You need 3 to 5 days to explore South Devon. This is enough time to visit the most famous spot in the area. The time you’ll need will also depend on your interests and the activities you plan, so you might need more time. If you want to get an in-depth experience of all the towns, prepare to spend more days.

What Is South Devon Famous For?

South Devon is famous for historical attractions such as Mayflower, The Box Museum, Dartmouth Castle, and Powderham Castle and wonderful views of the Torbay Beaches. The area also boasts outstanding natural spots such as Dartmoor National Park, Tamar Valley, Drakes Trail and River Dart Country Park. If you’re an animal lover, South Devon hosts the biggest aquarium in the UK called the National Marine Aquarium and Dart Zoo, which has exotic animal species.

Now that you have learned about all of the exciting things to do in South Devon, it is clear that this area is one of the most beautiful places in the United Kingdom for all travellers. No matter if you want to learn more about the history, admire stunning coastal views or take challenging hikes, South Devon will provide you with the perfect spot for it.

About The Author

Natalie Cooke

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25 best things to do in south devon for a great day out [2024].

South Devon, home to the South Devon Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is one of the most enchanting parts of Devon, if not the UK.

If you’re looking to visit amazing beaches, swim and surf in crystal clear waters, and hike along the rugged cliffs of the southwest coast path, then South Devon is the place to do it. 

From beaches and cute villages to vineyards and remote islands, here are the 25 best things to do in South Devon for a great day out!

This article is written by Christina in the Clouds .

1. Kingsbridge 

Address: 1 Promenade, Kingsbridge TQ7 1JD

Kingsbridge is a sweet market town that lies on the Kingsbridge Estuary.

Come here just before sunset to get the best views of the estuary – the tide is high and the water is still and everything feels so peaceful.

If you like to enjoy your sunsets with a glass of wine or a pint of beer, head to The Crabshell Inn , a delightful little pub located right next to the water.

2. Salcombe Harbour 

Address: Salcombe Shadycombe Car Park 

Salcombe is probably one of the most beautiful towns in South Devon.

In fact, it’s probably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Devon , full stop.

The streets are lined with multicoloured buildings and independent/boutique stores ready for you to browse.

I’d highly recommend coming here for a spot of lunch in one of the waterside pubs ( The Ferry Inn is my personal fave), followed by ice cream from Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream . 

There are three main car parks in Salcombe but I found Shadycombe (address above) to be the easiest to access. 

3. Burgh Island 

Address: Unnamed Road, Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge TQ7 4AS

Burgh Island is a small tidal island located in the town of Bigbury-On-Sea.

On the island, you can find beautiful golden sand and a secret (not so secret) natural mermaid pool.

In low tide, you can get over to the island on foot and in high tide, you can get over to the island via a sea tractor (which also happens to be one of the worlds first).

However, this stops running early evening so make sure you get your timings right!

4. Snapes Point 

Address: Snapes Point National Trust Car Park, Salcombe TQ8 8NQ

Snapes Point is the place to come for unrivalled 360 views of the Kingsbridge Estuary, the rolling hills of Devon and the town of Salcombe itself.

Snapes Point is also a huge hit with the locals, so you know it’s a spot worth visiting. 

The walk from the car park to the viewpoint is an easy (and very scenic) twenty-minute walk.

Although be warned, you might encounter a sheep traffic jam which could slow you down ever so slightly. 

5. Gara Rock 

Address: Salcombe TQ8 8FA

Gara Rock Beach (or Seacombe Sands as it’s sometimes known) has to be my favourite spot in all of South Devon, and I was lucky enough to experience this place all to myself. 

It’s a small, and pristine cove located at the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary. 

To get to the beach, simply park up in the free parking spot close to Gara Rock Hotel and then follow signs for ‘West Prawle’.

It shouldn’t take you longer than twenty minutes to reach the beach. 

6. Start Point Lighthouse 

Address: Stokenham, Kingsbridge TQ7 2ET

Start Point Lighthouse has been guiding ships through the English Channel since 1837.

Start Point is one of the most exposed headlands in all of England, which makes for some pretty dramatic Landscapes.

The best bit? It’s a great place to watch the sunrise.

So, if you’re an early riser make sure you head to Start Point to experience a pretty epic view of the sun rising over the horizon. 

7. Mill Bay 

Address: 2 Devon Rd, Salcombe TQ8 8PU

When I first arrived at this stunning bay, I was immediately transported back to Thailand.

The golden sand, the emerald green water and all the trees growing on the rock gave it that real Thailand feel.

There are a few ways of getting to Mill Bay: drive directly to the onsite National Trust car park, catch a water taxi from Salcombe Harbour or hike over from Gara Rock (mentioned above). 

8. South Devon Railway

Address: The Railway Station, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0DZ

Take a ride on the famous South Devon steam train.

The original line was first opened in 1872. and was used for the transporting of goods, such as coal, wool and cider running until 1962.

Today, it now operates solely as a tourist attraction.

The line runs for 14 miles from Buckfastleigh to Totnes, through the gorgeous River Dart Valley, and t he experience aims to transport you back in time by recreating train travel between the golden era of the 1930s to the 1960s.

The South Devon Railway is great fun for all the family and suitable for all ages. 

9. Hope Cove

Address: Hope Cove, Kingsbridge TQ7 3HN

The village of Hope Cove is home to two gorgeous little beaches (Mouthwell Sands and Harbour Beach) and famously featured on the BBC hit drama “The Coroner”.

This location is a great place to come if you have a family.

Spend your day at the beach making sandcastles and follow it up with a spot of lunch at the village pub, Hope & Anchor , which has great views of the water. 

Head straight here and park up in one of the villages, or hike here from Bolberry Down which will take you roughly 45 minutes to complete. 

10. Sharpham Vineyard

Address: Sharpham Estate, Totnes TQ9 7UT

No, you don’t have to travel all the way to the vineyards of Tuscany or Napa Valley, we have it all right here on our doorstep in South Devon.

Sharpham Vineyard is a producer of classic British wines and offers guided tours and tasting sessions, with prices starting at as little as £15 per person.

If the wine tasting wasn’t enough, they also have an onsite cheese dairy and you can purchase some of their award-winning cheese for yourself. Delicious!

11. Soar Mill Cove

Address: Kingsbridge TQ7 3EN

Only accessible by foot or boat, this small sandy inlet is the perfect place to come to spot an abundance of wildlife and/or relax with a good book.

To get here, head to Bolberry Down National Trust Car park and then take the 20-30 minute downhill walk to the cove.

You can walk directly onto the beach as well as hike up on the cliffs beside the beach to get incredible views of the cove. 

After your hike, be sure to stop off at Soar Mill Cove Hotel for a quick coffee. 

12. Berry Head Nature Reserve 

Address: Gillard Rd, Brixham TQ5 9AP

Berry Head is an internationally acclaimed heritage site and an area of conservation.

It’s home to both stunning wildlife and fascinating history.

Come here to enjoy incredible coastal walks, explore the Napoleonic War fortifications or spot some of the impressive wildlife. 

Hungry after all that activity, make sure to grab some coffee and cake from the award-winning Guardhouse Café .

13. Thurlestone Beach

Address: 5 Thurlestone Rock, Thurlestone Sands, Kingsbridge TQ7 3JY

Thurlestone was another one of my South Devon favourites.

It’s such a peaceful and relaxing place and its natural beauty is utterly charming, so much so it’s won an award from the Marine Conservation Society thanks to its crystal clear waters. 

Thurlestone is the ideal spot to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds.

I’d recommend coming here for a beachside picnic.

14. Dittisham 

Address: Dittisham, Dartmouth TQ6 0EU

Just a stone’s throw (short ferry ride) from Dartmouth is the village of Dittisham.

This picturesque village is lined with multicoloured cottages and small fishing boats that make you feel as though you’ve stepped inside a painting.

Head to Anchorstone Café on the waterfront for some locally caught, fresh seafood. 

15. Bantham Beach

Address: Bantham, Kingsbridge TQ7 3AN

If you love sunsets and sand dunes then Bantham Beach is one of the best things to do in South Devon for you.

Bantham Beach is one of the best places in all of South Devon to watch the sun go down and to play amongst the sand dunes.

Not only that, but it’s also a blue flag beach so you know it’s going to be incredible. 

Fancy trying your hand at surfing or paddle boarding? Bantham is the place to do it.

You can head to Bantham Surfing Academy to find out more.

Want to get those steps in?

Then why not walk from Thurlestone Beach to Bantham and take in some gorgeous coastal views? 

16. Mattiscombe Sands 

Visit one of South Devon’s most secluded beaches with a trip to Mattiscombe Sands.

The water is a gorgeous turquoise blue, and the beach itself is home to an array of wildlife.

If you’re lucky you might get to share the stretch of sand with a family of cute grey seals.

Mattiscombe is known for being quite difficult to access, with a short but steep and slippery walk down to the bay, so be prepared for the challenge!

Mattiscombe is close to Start Point Lighthouse, so kill two birds with one stone and visit them both on the same trip.

17. Dartmouth Castle

Address: ​​Castle Rd, Dartmouth TQ6 0JN

Combine coastal walks and history with a trip to Dartmouth Castle .

The castle has guarded the entrance of the Dart Estuary for over 600 years and offers incredible views of the sea.

Visit the castle tea rooms and take a ride on the Dartmouth Castle ferry for the ultimate experience. 

If you want to walk around the castle make sure you book your visit here .

18. Hallsands 

Address – Kingsbridge TQ7 2EY

Both a short walk (20 minutes) and a short drive (six minutes) from Start Point is Hallsands Beach.

Hallsands is a beautiful shingle beach (and another of my favourites!).

The waves here are loud and strong so it’s the perfect place to relax in the morning and listen to the ocean crash along the shore.

Hallsands is also such a great starting point for some of the best walks of the southwest coast path. 

19. Dartmouth Harbour

Address: Dartmouth TQ6 9PT

Dartmouth Harbour is a wonderful natural port lined with an array of restaurants, pubs and cafes.

Make sure you stop here for a spot of lunch or a quick coffee to admire the stunning views and the cute fishing boats. 

20. Greenway House

Address: Kingswear, Brixham TQ5 0ES

The previous home of one of the world’s best-selling authors, and legendary crime writer, Agatha Christie, Greenway House is one of the best things to do in South Devon.

Christie once described Greenway House as “the loveliest place in the world”, and if that’s not a good enough reason to visit there, then I don’t know what is.

Greenway House is now run by the National Trust so make sure you book in advance to secure a timeslot. 

21. Sugary Cove 

Address: S W Coast Path, Dartmouth TQ6 0JN

Just a short walk from Dartmouth Castle is the hidden gem that is Sugary Cove.

(What a great name!)

The cove is quiet and secluded, so you’ll most likely have this beautiful place all to yourself.

The walk down to the cove is quite steep so probably not suitable for those with young children and the cove also disappears during high tide, so make sure to plan for that.

22. Noss Mayo

Address: Noss Mayo, Plymouth PL8 1EW

Noss Mayo is a quaint village tucked away on the southern bank of the River Yelm.

You can either come here for a quiet pub lunch (there are only two in the village!) or hike the coast path and visit the secret Cellars and Warren beaches. 

23. Royal Citadel 

Address: Royal Citadel Plymouth, Lambhay Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PD

The Royal Citadel is an impressive 17th Century fortress built to protect the coast from Dutch Invaders.

What’s even more impressive is the fact that the Citadel is still in use by the British military today.

You can book a guided tour of the fortress, but be warned, as it’s still in use you could have your trip cancelled at a moment’s notice. 

If that happens, don’t fear, because The Royal Citadel is located in the centre of Plymouth, meaning that there are still plenty of other activities for you to do.

24. Bygones 

Address: Fore St, St Marychurch, Torquay TQ1 4PR

Fancy taking a trip back to Victorian times?

Well, you can do exactly that at Bygones .

Bygones is a life-sized Victorian street complete with cobbled streets and original signs from the Victorian Era.

Wander through the streets and take a peek inside the fifteen shops and the nine period rooms. 

The street is bursting with colour and entertainment, making it fun for all the family. 

25. Slapton Sands & Torcross Beach 

Address: At The Beach, Torcross TQ7 2T

Despite having two separate names, Slapton Sands and Torcross are essentially the same beach. 

If you’re a lover of watersports then this spot is for you.

The water is clear and calm, creating perfect conditions for kayakers, paddleboarders and swimmers.

And if you’re lucky you’ll be able to spot an abundance of wildlife, from seals to dolphins to shoals of mackerel. 

Unlike a lot of the beaches in Devon, Slapton and Torcross have a few beachside cafes close to the shore.

So grab a coffee and walk along the water, or enjoy a pint as you’re watching the sun go down.

You won’t regret it!

So there you have it: the 25 best things to do in South Devon for a great day out!

Which of these things to do in South Devon are you going to try out first?

Please let me know in the comments below!

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10 Things to Do in South Devon That Will Amaze You

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When you think about England, you could be forgiven for associating this beautiful, historic country with London, the idyllic rural villages around the Cotswolds or perhaps the ancient ruins at Stonehenge. However, if you have read many of our other posts associated with England, you will know that we try to focus on some of the “lesser known” destinations that we still think should be on everyone’s radar…this post is no different! Welcome to the best things to do in South Devon!

Located in the south-west corner of England just north of Cornwall, Devon is a county that is frequently left out of the limelight, primarily because it doesn’t have those high-profile attractions or cities that everyone immediately associates with the UK.

But don’t let that convince you to stay away from this area…in fact, we would argue that this should intrigue you to explore and after reading this post, we hope that you will have a few ideas as to the best spots worth experiencing in the southern part of the county.

From historic castles to spectacular waterfalls, from quaint seaside villages to delicious local cuisine, South Devon is home to pretty much everything you could wish for in a perfect vacation spot.

The iconic English Riviera is the focal point of South Devon, primarily renowned as such because of the direct comparison with the more infamous “French Riviera”. However, the collection of seaside towns featuring the likes of Torquay, Brixham, and Paignton are known locally as Torbay.

But as you will see, South Devon expands much further than just the coastal towns, so let’s take a look at some of the best attractions and experiences that you cannot afford to miss!

Torquay is undoubtedly the heartbeat of South Devon with a vibrant seafront, gorgeous marina and a myriad of shops and restaurants that will leave you with plenty to experience during your visit.

Take a stroll up the main street to enjoy a little retail therapy while visiting Devon or perhaps you prefer to admire the collection of luxury yachts and fishing vessels that are docked in the marina.

Living Coasts is a zoo and sea life aquarium located along the seafront, offering an amazing experience with nature while admiring the spectacular views overlooking the bay. For those of you that are intrigued by the prospect of heading out to sea, there are plenty of daily excursions available, ranging from fishing trips to a cruise that takes you across the bay to the nearby coastal town of Brixham.

We highly recommend this not only because of the awesome cruise but also because Brixham is another town that we recommend visiting while experiencing South Devon. However, for the history buffs visiting Torquay, head over to Torre Abbey that dates back to 1196 when it was originally founded as a monastery. Today, it is renowned as the best preserved medieval monastery in Devon and Cornwall.

Back in the heart of Torquay, take a short stroll along the seafront before arriving at Abbey Park to test your golfing skills with a leisurely round of pitch and putt or perhaps enjoying the locals showcasing their crown green bowling skills.

The fishing town of Brixham epitomizes the beauty throughout South Devon. If you choose to follow our above recommendation and hop on the cruise from Torquay, you will enjoy the ultimate arrival in Brixham because it’s the best way to appreciate the overall appearance of this town.

As you approach from the bay, you cannot help but admire the local residential areas scattered across the landscape, while the focal point is undoubtedly the harbor housing the local fishing vessels.

At the heart of Brixham’s fishing harbor is one of only two true replicas of the Golden Hind ship, recognized as the first ship to circumnavigate the globe courtesy of captain Sir Francis Drake.

Your adventure exploring Brixham begins the moment you step off the boat (or car if you choose to drive into town) and with a plethora of local shops and restaurants to choose from, this is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy lunch while interacting with locals who will certainly be happy to provide recommendations on the best things to do there.

Visitors to Brixham will be impressed by the selection of local Fish and Chip shops. Just like a cream tea is a staple for Devon and Cornwall, I would highly recommend sampling the local fish and chips!

There is nothing quite like finding the best local spot (again, interact with the locals and they will point you in the right direction) and enjoying the typical British meal while exploring Brixham town center.

From the quaint and quirky to the family fun activities we all associate with a traditional British holiday, Teignmouth is a great spot worth visiting to experience a little bit of everything. During our recent trip to Devon, we made a quick trip to Teignmouth to experience the seafront and the River Teign estuary.

Take a walk along the beach to enjoy the gorgeous sands or try out your luck inside one of the arcades before relaxing with a game of crazy golf. All of this and much more can be experienced directly on the promenade.

Further inland, enjoy gorgeous historic architecture with a myriad of Georgian inspired buildings while those looking to sample local cuisine will be faced with a destination gaining a reputation for having a great gourmet selection.

“The Taste of the Teign food trail” offers visitors and locals alike the opportunity to sample “world-renowned mussel and oyster beds” along with local berry farms and craft breweries.

Babbacombe Bay

When it comes to idyllic landscapes, there are not many spots that offer more spectacular views than those available at Babbacombe Bay. Just a few miles along the coast from Torquay, Babbacombe is the perfect place to experience if you are looking for a tranquil setting yet still offering plenty of things to do.

Renowned as the “jewel in the crown of the English Riviera,” Babbacombe perfectly represents everything there is to love about South Devon. The history of Babbacombe suggests that this has always been a sought-after beach resort and by the end of the 19th-century, it established itself as “a classy Victorian holiday destination.”

Aside from the spectacular views across the bay, Babbacombe is known for the model village full of intricate details and a fun-filled experience for all the family.

The Babbacombe Cliff Railway is another iconic attraction, particularly given its history dates back over 90 years and offers the perfect way to reach those gorgeous beaches without having to worry about hauling your beach gear up and down the steep cliffs.

When it comes to places to eat, there are several cafes in Babbacombe that offer some of the best lunch options across South Devon.

The Cliff Railway Cafe has plenty of outdoor seating, offering majestic views across the bay while Babbacombe Bay Cafe is perhaps our favorite choice, with a variety of awesome baguettes, warm meals and much more to choose from!

The historic market town of Totnes is a place you cannot afford to miss when exploring South Devon. Totnes Castle is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional Norman motte and bailey castle and is definitely worth experiencing when you visit this part of the county.

The main street that runs through the heart of Totnes is a shoppers paradise, with plenty of local boutique establishments and brand name stores to explore.

Be sure you schedule your visit to Totnes on market day (Fridays and Saturdays) to experience the weekly market held in the Civic Hall Square. An Elizabethan market is also held every Tuesday morning and visitors can enjoy locals wearing their period attire.

As you leave (or when you arrive) Totnes, be sure to check out the views across the River Dart. You never know what wildlife you will spot and there are plenty of boats always meandering their way through the channel.

When it comes to South Devon being renowned as the English Riviera, the beautiful town of Dartmouth is surely one of the main reasons for this recognition.

Whether you arrive in Dartmouth on board a cruise from Torquay or other nearby coastal town or perhaps you hop on the car ferry for the short ride across the River Dart, the Meditteranean style appearance of the town is what immediately captures your attention.

Dartmouth has a long history with the Royal Navy, primarily because of the naval college located just outside the town center. Officers have been trained here since 1863, indicative of the history throughout this part of South Devon.

The scenic river location of Dartmouth is perhaps the primary reason why so many visitors explore this area but the moment you step off the promenade, you have the opportunity to explore art galleries, museums, local shops and much more. There certainly isn’t a shortage of things to do in this coastal town!

Canonteign Falls

Ready to experience one of England’s highest waterfalls? That’s right, South Devon is home to Canonteign Falls, a 220-feet waterfall that is located among a forested landscape and ready for adventure seekers to explore.

For a small admission fee, visitors can enjoy a short hike through the heart of the Teign Valley and Dartmouth National Park before arriving at the pièce de résistance, Canonteign Falls!

Several hiking trails are available at Canonteign Falls but the most popular leads visitors through the bluebell woods and up the 70-meter waterfall until you reach the summit and experience epic views across South Devon.

The magical Victorian fern garden can be found around halfway through the hike and offers a unique collection of ferns that create a relaxing ambiance for visitors to enjoy before continuing on the adventure through the wooded area.

An abundance of flora and fauna can be enjoyed throughout your visit to Canonteign Falls and you can spend a few minutes inside the gift shop following your visit to find something that will remind you of your experience.

For us, the memories are the perfect tonic to remind us that a return visit is in order!

Idyllic, quaint, picturesque and in many ways, perfection! This is really the best way to describe the charming village of Cockington just a few miles from Torquay.

The village is relatively small with just a few local gift shops and cafes but when it comes to inherent beauty across South Devon, there are not many spots more breathtaking than Cockington.

Many villages lay claim to being picturesque, but the delightful Devon village of Cockington is the real deal. (Englishriviera.co.uk)

Driving to Cockington could be described as a challenging experience, particularly if you are not used to the narrow roads that can be found throughout Devon.

I probably should have referenced this earlier but for folks (Heather is one of them!) that haven’t experience English country roads, they can be a little overwhelming! But trust me when I say, it’s worth the effort and can actually be a pretty exciting adventure in itself.

At the heart of the village lies the spectacular Cockington Court, a manor house dating back to medieval times and surrounded by acres of gorgeous country park.

Buckfast Abbey

The plethora of unique attractions across South Devon continues with a working Benedictine monastery in Buckfastleigh, just a few miles outside of Newton Abbot and Totnes. For those of you planning on spending a few hours in either of these aforementioned towns, take some time to visit Buckfast Abbey for a historic experience.

For the historians out there, Buckfast Abbey offers a real treat! Buckfast first became home to an abbey in 1018, while the first Benedictine abbey was followed by a Savignac abbey constructed on the site of the present day structure in 1134.

Spend some time exploring the grounds, visiting the gift shop and restaurant, before heading over to the tranquil setting of the Sensory, Physic and Lavender Gardens.

Newton Abbot

Camping in Devon is certainly one of the best ways to enjoy the very best of this county and we strongly recommend considering Ross Park Caravan Park as your preferred option. Located just outside of the market town of Newton Abbot in the small village of Ipplepen, Ross Park is perfectly located to explore everything South Devon has to offer.

For those of you that don’t want to venture too far away from the caravan site, head into Newton Abbot to enjoy this traditional market town. With plenty of indoor and outdoor markets to experience, this is definitely a great spot to find local produce and bargains. If you are visiting during horse racing season, Newton Abbot racecourse frequently hosts meetings throughout the summer months.

A number of country parks are easily accessible from Newton Abbot, including Decoy Country Park, Courtenay Park, and many others. There are plenty of shopping options available throughout the town so if you ready for the hustle and bustle of life in a small Devon market town, Newton Abbot is the place to go!

South Devon may not be the first part of the UK you think about visiting but we would argue that this richly deserves to be considered as a viable vacation spot.

Breathtaking panoramic landscapes, architecture steeped full of history and a variety of local spots that will immediately capture the imagination, are all reasons why South Devon should be on everyone’s radar.

Although we have highlighted ten of the best things to do in South Devon, this barely touches the surface. It’s a part of the UK that needs to be explored and we cannot wait to return in the near future to experience more of this.

I almost forgot to mention…South Devon is perhaps the BEST place in the UK to experience a traditional cream tea!! We can well and truly attest, it’s delicious. Devonshire Clotted Cream, Jam, and a Scone combined with either coffee or tea…are you guys sold now?? WE DEFINITELY ARE!

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Such a good post I glad to read it. I have never Visit South Devon, and your pictures make me crazy and now I’m planning to visit here. Thanks for sharing attractive pictures with us.

This area looks fantastic! I love anything that’s on water. Plus the architecture looks lovely, there’s waterfalls, boats, and a miniature village. It has it all. You also can’t go wrong with fish and chips, yum.

Ooooh my gosh! We haven’t even been there and we’re already in love with South Devon!!! We can definitely see the comparison to the French Riviera, but there seem to be similarities to many areas of Europe all collected together in this regeion. We knew we wanted to spend a bit longer in England…and that bit just got even longer. 😉

Great suggestions, Devon has a lot to offer, cliffs and sandy beaches, picturesque landscape and historical towns. The food is delicious! One of the most beautiful parts of England.

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Visit South Devon and some of the best days out in Devon.

Unspoilt coast and countryside, historical sites, memorable adventures, and top attractions what more could you want.

Torbay, the South Hams, Start Bay, the English Riveria whichever words or area we refer to, South Devon presents you with the perfect opportunity to explore everything and anything for everyone! Areas of Outstanding Beauty, a World Heritage Coast, Dartmoor National Park and miles of spectacular coastline with the addition of the vibrant cathedral city of Exeter not far away in East Devon, and the numerous choice of coastal and rural towns and villages ready for you to and stay whatever your accommodation preference guarantee a fantastic day out in Devon.

South Devon has a wealth of activities for all ages to enjoy. Miles of footpaths, coastal walks, cycle trails, unspoilt beaches, woodland and numerous nature reserves for those wanting to explore on foot or bike as well fantastic water sports in seaside towns such as Salcombe , Dartmouth , Exmouth and Plymouth . The main cities of Exeter and Plymouth both offer a fantastic full day’s entertainment for every visitor and smaller centres such as Totnes , Kingsbridge , Teignmouth and Dawlish all have so much to offer with vibrant mixture of big brands and boutique independent shops selling unique gifts that make great souvenirs, an array of quality restaurants and cafes and parks and gardens that make every visit a pleasure. South Devon has many dog friendly beaches and walking trails so there’s plenty of opportunity to work up an appetite before you stop off at the numerous cafes, pubs and farm shops or simply enjoy fish and chips on a seaside bench.

There are so many things to do in Devon and fantastic attractions for families in South Devon that a trip wouldn’t be complete without spending some time at these top venues:

If you have young children and want some fun on the farm, then a visit to the award winning Pennywell Farm   , one of Devon’s top animal farm parks is a must Devon day out.

With a different activity, show or display every half hour, hundreds of friendly animals and a selection of free rides you will receive a very warm welcome! Bottle feed baby animals, race ferrets, explore ponds or cuddle one of the world famous Pennywell miniature piglets or groom and pamper a very sociable slightly larger pony! Pennywell Pig Racing is a must, and you probably haven’t experienced anything quite like it before – come and see it for yourselves!

South Devon Railway is just the ticket for a day out at one of the best days out in Devon.

Seven mile steam railway running between Buckfastleigh and Totnes, a branch line of the former Great Western Railway. Climb aboard a steam or diesel engine and sit back! The line passes through some of Devon’s most attractive countryside running next to the River Dart for the majority of the journey. At Buckfastleigh there is a riverside walk and picnic area, gardens, a captivating museum, workshop, a well shocked shop for all ages and a refreshment room with the option of course of a Devon cream tea.

Looking for top Devon beaches, then head for Blackpool Sands  near Dartmouth, South Devon.

An area of outstanding natural beauty and an award winning Blue Flag beach what better place to enjoy a family day out besides the sea. Blackpool Sands is privately managed and has kept its standards high, this is also the ideal place to start or finish a walk along this part of the South Devon coastline. Sandpits just for the children so they can remain safe or if you like to add a little adrenaline to your day why not consider kayaking or paddle boarding in the clear blue seas?

If you are searching for top Devon attractions for families then head to one of the best days out in Devon to Woodlands Family Theme Park   one of the largest theme parks in the South West.

Action packed and be a superhero for the day! Fantastic events, workshops and shows including a real life dinosaur! Indoors or outside there is plenty to entertain the whole family for the day with the option to camp overnight. The largest water coasters in Devon; this is just one of 11 play zones full of rides with huge indoor play centres to explore, so much to list. Animals play a big part here too; indoor barns full of wild, exotic and cute animals with a daily display at the falconry centre.

Visit Plymouth , Britain’s Ocean City for a top Devon day out and a great mix of family things to do in Devon.

Plymouth has the best of both worlds; easy access to the south west coastline and Dartmoor National Park. Hundreds of years of history literally as we commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower ship when it set sail from Plymouth to America in 1620. Attractions, activities, shopping, sport and leisure, entertainment and nightlife make sure not to miss this vibrant city ocean city.

Find other Devon tourist Attractions on Dartmoor here

Find more top Devon attractions in Torbay here

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34 magical secret places and hidden gems in Devon

Our expert guide to the best secret spots and hidden places in Devon - from the historic and beautiful to the abandoned and forgotten

• 11:00, 21 JUL 2021
• Updated 08:42, 14 JUL 2022

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Devon is well known for its rich history, award-winning attractions, stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches - but us locals know that this is just the tip of the iceberg.

There are also a host of cool and unusual secret places and hidden gems just waiting to be explored, if you know where to look.

Even if you know the names or recognise them by sight, you might be unaware of the fascinating secret history behind them or the cultural significance or their beauty.

Read more Devon stories here: 19 Devon villages so pretty you'll want to move there immediately

Tales of ghosts, legends, and even real people are linked to these 34 magical and fascinating locations - which include tors, secret doors, underground bases, monasteries, nuclear bunkers, and secret-service sites.

So, why not live life on the wild side and check out our list of the best secret spots and hidden places in Devon . Just don't tell the locals we told you!

1) Mysterious front door

You may often pass this lovely old building in Exeter's Gandy Street without stopping to wonder why it looks like something from a Harry Potter stage set (author JK Rowling studied at Exeter University and was indeed inspired by many Devon landmarks) and why the front door never opens.

The Grade I listed building, sandwiched between a jewellers and a children's clothing shop, dates back to the 14th century. It is the Freemasons Hall in Exeter and members granted DevonLive exclusive access .

Long ago members abandoned the attractive Gandy Street entrance and now used a tucked away back entrance.

The interior is surprisingly plain, more like an old town hall than a church, until you reach the first floor temple, where all the ceremonies take place. Members gather here in chairs surrounding a black and white checkerboard floor, representing the light and dark of life.

The room is packed with symbols of the Craft, containing many of the working tools of a medieval stonemason.

Take a tour here

2) Most famous pub on Dartmoor

Possibly the most famous pub on Dartmoor is The Warren House Inn . It's famous for two things. One, it's the highest pub in southern England but also because of the cosy warmth of the fire that never goes out.

Ever since the present inn was built in 1845 it is said that the fire has never been allowed to go out.

It's a great place for walks and ghost stories too.

3) Secret WWII underground bases

Devon has a web of hidden underground World War II bases. They were built in case Hitler invaded and a secret army was trained and ready to kill.

Of course the invasion never happened, but if Hitler's troops had landed on Devon's beaches, Sir Winston Churchill had made sure that these men in the innocently-named Auxiliary Units were ready to fight to the death in a guerrilla resistance.

They were prepared to literally disappear into thin air by going to ground in a series of 33 secret bunkers hidden all over Devon.

Many of Operational Bases have since collapsed. But a few remain: including this surprisingly intact example at Newton Poppleford.

To this day historians are still trying to piece together the full story and they would like the help of Devonians who may be able to help with information about the men on this list . Many of their families have never known exactly what they did in the war.

4) Real Hound of the Baskervilles

Hound Tor on Dartmoor is said to have been the inspiration for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes story ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles’.

Hound Tor is a good example of a heavily weathered granite outcrop. It is easily accessible, situated within a few minutes from the B3387 between Bovey Tracey and Widecombe-in-the-Moor.

5) Creepy nuclear bunker

There is a labyrinth of passages and even a nifty escape route underneath Torquay's recently closed magistrates court building near the town centre.

Why the bunker was built is unclear though as a Ministry of Justice building and with memories fresh of the first Cold War, it is likely to have been constructed as a safe bolt hole for police and staff from the nearby Torquay town hall under threat from attack.

We recently took a look inside

6) Doomed village

Today only a few ghostly shells of buildings remain of the old village at South Hallsands. It is closed off to the public, although South Hams District Council has built a viewing platform, which is accessed from the track below Prospect House Apartments.

The fishermen of the doomed village of Hallsands were cheated out of their future and their families lost their homes back in 1917 as the sea flooded in after their beach was stripped of gravel to build Plymouth's dockyards.

When the dredging started in 1897, Hallsands was a thriving village of 150 souls living directly or indirectly off fishing with their own pub, post office and shop.

But by 1918 Hallsands was uninhabitable after beach levels plummeted by more than 15 feet leaving the village vulnerable to south westerly storms which undermined homes and battered them into ruins.

Experts have said the effects of the offshore dredging in the late 1800s and early 1900s are still being felt with beach levels at Slapton Sands have dropped by a further two metres in recent months.

The century-old dredging operation is still thought to be affecting the coastline with huge sea walls having to be built at both Beesands and Torcross over the last 20 years to protect homes along with the swamping of the Slapton line coastal road that was undermined first in 2001 and then again in 2018.

7) Agatha Christie's hideaway

Greenway on the banks of the River Dart was the beloved hidden home of Agatha Christie , where she dreamed up the plots of many of her finest mysteries . It now belongs to the National Trust but you can walk through the inspirational garden, including the North Walled Garden and the Bird Pond.

Click here to join the National Trust.

7) Robin Hood of the West's hiding place

Lydford Gorge is described as “one of Devon’s most spectacular natural features”. In the 17th century, the area acted as a refuge for a band of brigands who called themselves the Gubbinses. Their leader, Roger Rowle, was dubbed the Robin Hood of the West and some say their lair was in the gorge. They were the scourge of the area, notorious for stealing sheep on the moor.

Today you can safely take a two-mile walk along the riverside to see the White Lady, a narrow 100ft high waterfall.

8) Haunted Benedictine monastery

Exeter's St Nicholas Priory is at the heart of a formal paranormal investigation by Haunted Devon. The organisation has bagged the chance to find out - once and for all - whether the 1,000 year old site is packed with ghosts and ghouls. Tucked behind The Mint pub, now The Little Drop of Poison , it was at the beating heart of the city until King Henry VIII dissolved scores of small monasteries in 1536.

9) Swimming caves that look like a Hindu temple

The Hindu Caves are located between Torquay and Paignton by the Livermead Cliff Hotel. The cave formation was well known in Victorian times.

The caves gained their nickname from Charles Kingsley , author of 'The Water Babies' who described the caves as: “A labyrinth of double and triple caves like a Hindu temple."

The caves are made up of red rock and have an exotic appeal, worth a look to any capable swimmer who enjoys an added adventure. But beware, if the waves pick up they can push swimmers against the rocks at the back of the cave.

10) James Bond secret service site

The exact nature of the work that takes place at GCHQ Bude is top secret and cannot be publicised due to its sensitive nature.

However, it is known that staff at the site work to tackle all sorts of threats including online bank thefts, distribution of terrorist propaganda, child exploitation, money laundering, drug smuggling and people trafficking.

11) Last castle ever built in England

Famously the last castle to be built in England, Castle Drogo was built between 1910 and 1930 by the architect and garden designer Edwin Lutyens for the wealthy owner of Home and Colonial Stores Julius Drewe. It is near the village of Drewsteignton and walks take you down to the beautiful Fingle Bridge beauty spot with its ancient bridge across the bubbling River Teign.

12) England's only breeding wild population of beavers

This one really is a secret! A population of beavers, of unknown origin, has been present on the River Otter since around 2008. However, when video evidence emerged proving that the beavers had given birth to kits (young) in 2014, the UK Government initially planned to have them removed from the river.

But the public was not happy! And now England's only breeding wild population of beavers is watched over by Devon Wildlife Trust and there are eight family groups living on the River Otter.

13) TV crime drama The Coroner locations

The Coroner is set in the fictitious village of Lighthaven. It stars Claire Goose as single mum Jane Kennedy, who returns to her hometown to investigate murders alongside childhood sweetheart Detective Sergeant Davey Higgins. But the real star of the show is Devon, Devon, Devon, right from the fabulous aerial opening scenes swooping the whole way along the South Devon coast.

We reveal all here

14) Craziness at Crazywell Pool

Legend has it Crazywell Pool — located in the middle of Dartmoor — is a bottomless, haunted pool. There is also a legend of its waters rising and falling with the tides, connected by a mysterious underground tunnel to the sea miles away at Plymouth .

But more recently the beauty spot was turned into a 'pop-up lido' for a group of Devon's hardy wild swimmers complete with an art installation consisting of a portable lifeguard's chair.

15) Isolated island

We all dream of getting away from it all and heading to an island somewhere far, far away to relax and forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As it turns out, you don't have to travel that far from home to find your own slice of paradise.

Located just 12 miles off the North Devon coast , Lundy Island is unique in the fact that it has no Wi-Fi, no television and no phone reception.

16) England’s tallest tree

Head to Nutcombe Bottom, near Dunster, to track down a record-breaking Douglas Fir that has gone down in history as England’s Tallest Tree. Exmoor's 9,375 hectares of woodland provide ample opportunity to connect with nature.

17) Secret rooms in The House That Moved

The House That Moved began life in the 1420s at No 16 Edmund Street, where it was also known as Merchant House.

Fast forward 530-odd years to the early 1960s and the building was pencilled in for demolition to make space for the city bypass coming off Exe Bridges roundabout.

Thankfully the 10-tonne building was moved in December 1961 and dragged 220 feet over three days to its new location at the bottom of West Street.

One of the oldest houses in Exeter in now one of the city's most-loved landmarks, attracting people from far and wide.

Take a tour around inside here

18) Exmoor's highest point

Amazing views overlooking Devon and Somerset and across to Wales from Dunkery Beacon. Park at Dunkery Gate car park to follow the footpath 0.6 miles to the top, marked by a large cairn and plaque. A lovely picnic spot if weather allows.

19) Steam train, woodland walk and pool adventure

A fun way to start this picturesque mini-adventure is by jumping on board the restored steam train at Littlehempston station in Totnes and chugging your way up to Staverton station, around the Dartington Estate.

Step off the train and take a delightful riverside walk through the trees until you reach the weir and cross the leat. Carry on further over a bridge made from two old railway sleepers and onto a bench near a tree in the middle of the path.

Here you can drop down onto the earthy beach and swim at the aptly named Still Pool. This naturally dammed playground, straight out of a Mark Twain story, has everything you need - a deep channel to swim through, a pebbly beach on the far shore to conquer and jumping rocks and a rope swing for the adventurous.

The walk continues into the village of Staverton, and a well-deserved refreshment stop at the Sea Trout Inn. Stroll back to the station through a lush nature reserve. Please note, part of the route is closed on Sundays.

20) Legendary Pig's Nose Inn

Discover one of Devon's best bits - camp at East Prawle and enjoy an ale or three at the legendary Pig's Nose Inn.

The car park at Start Point must be a contender for one of the best views of any car park in the UK. Walk down to the lighthouse.

At Peartree Point you reach a secret shingle beach, although there are some strong currents out near the islands.

You get a great view over Great Mattiscombe Beach as you walk around the headland. It's a much shorter walk back up to the car park through some beautiful fields. Make a weekend of it, camping at East Prawle and enjoying an ale or three at the legendary Pig's Nose Inn.

21) Haunted house on the edge of a cliff

Seafield House at Westward Ho! is found on the edge of a cliff and is known by locals as ‘The Haunted House’ because of its appearance and ominous position overlooking the sea. The former hotel has stood empty since the lady who used to live there passed away. In World War Two it was reportedly used as a field hospital.

22) Thousand-year-old tree where King Charles hid

It is believed Meavy’s ancient oak has stood on the village green outside the Royal Oak Inn for almost 1,000 years. According to records the tree was said to be old in the days of Queen Elizabeth I and is thought to have been standing tall in the reign of King John in 1200AD.

According to local legend it is the tree which King Charles hid in while fleeing Cromwell's men in the 16th century.

Keith Scrivener from Burrator Parish Council said: "Meavy's ancient and venerable oak tree has been standing on the village green at the centre of local life for countless generations."

23) Coasteering around spectacular Ansteys Cove

This hidden Torquay cove is well protected and calm and provides fantastic swimming conditions, especially for those who are new to wild swimming. The crystal clear water also means the cove is brilliant for getting on the goggles and having a snorkel. There is always plenty of wild life, including some friendly seals.

24)Cattedown Bone Caves

Only a select few have been allowed inside the top-secret Cattedown Caves since their discovery in 1886. Among the partial skeletons of 15 early humans was the famous ‘Cattedown Man’ – believed to be Plymouth’s earliest known inhabitant and dating back up to 140,000 years.

Today the caves remain fenced off but these fascinating images held by the Devon Karst Research Society offer a rare glimpse of what was inside.

25) Devon's own Durdle Door

London Bridge in Torquay can be seen from the land but only reached by sea. Advanced swimmers love the thrill of swimming under this fantastic rocky archway.

A good starting point is Peaked Tor Cove below the Imperial Hotel . If you swim around towards Meadfoot you will come to the rock arch formation similar to a smaller version of Dorset's Durdle Door.

26) Pub with 11 people buried under the bar

George’s Meeting House (named in honour of the king) is now a Wetherspoon pub in Exeter. But originally it was used as the dissenter’s base for many years and the building began to be used as a burial site by more ‘status seeking’ dissenters from 1811 and eleven vaults were found at the pub when Wetherspoon moved in, back during 2005.

Dissenters were not allowed to be buried on land controlled by the church. Now their half-forgotten history is being retold and their burial ground restored.

27) Secret cinema inside an old library

You have to look carefully to spot the Totnes Cinema sign above a small alleyway between two shops on Totnes High Street. It is a walkway to another world - where viewers can choose to recline on a chaise lounge wrapped in a blanket or sip cocktails while a pianist plays on. Picture goers get to sit around tables, slouch on leather sofas or in the tiered balcony above.

Take a proper look inside here

28) Underground Passages

The medieval passages under Exeter city centre have always fascinated local people, with stories of wars and sieges, plague and pestilence. But they were designed to bring clean drinking water from natural springs outside the walled city, through lead pipes into the heart of the city.

To avoid digging up roads when the lead pipes leaked the passages were vaulted and it is down some of these vaulted passageways that visitors are guided.

29) Wistman's Wood

Mystical Wistman's Wood is one of only three remote high-altitude oakwoods on Dartmoor. Since 1964 it's been a site of Special Scientific Interest and protecting the ancient woodlands was one of the reasons Dartmoor was selected as a Special Area of Conservation.

This magical place has been mentioned in writing for hundreds of years. It is believed to be left-over from the ancient forest that covered much of Dartmoor since 7000 BC, before Mesolithic hunter/gatherers cleared it around 5000 BC.

Photographs show it has been changing rapidly since the the mid-19th century as the Devon climatic conditions have generally become warmer.

The oldest oaks appear to be 400–500 years old and survived in scrub form during two centuries of cold climate.

30) Town where modern Britain began

According to legend, Totnes is where Brutus of Troy stepped foot on what would become Britain - According to the Historia Britonum Britain it is so named because of the descendant of the Trojan hero Aeneas.

This legend first appears in the Historia Britonum, an anonymous ninth-century historical compilation to which commentary was added by Nennius, but is best known from the account given by the 12th-century chronicler Geoffrey of Monmouth in his Historia Regum Britanniae.

The Brutus Stone in Fore Street marks the spot where Brutus is said to have first stepped foot on British soil, it reads: "Here I stand and here I rest and this town shall be called Totnes."

31) See across all of Devon from rocky summit

The highest point in the UK south of the Brecon Beacons and the highest point in England south of the Peak District. There are amazing views across most of Devon from the rocky summit and although it's a long, hard slog, to get to the top is a tough walk rather than a difficult climb. The locals pronounce it High Willies and at 621 metres above sea level it's only 12ft higher than neighbouring Yes Tor.

32) Largest natural lake in the South West

Slapton Ley is the largest natural lake in South West England. Although it is only separated from the sea by a narrow shingle bar, it is entirely freshwater. During Storm Emma the fragile road was badly damaged. Slapton Ley is a National Nature Reserve managed by the Field Studies Council .

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33) Jewish Burial Ground through a secret door

The Jewish Burial Ground in Plymouth is home to 256 tombstones and lay undiscovered until two years ago. It is accessible only through a black door in an anonymous Barbican wall.

The cemetery was completely overgrown until the Plymouth Synagogue's caretaker, Jerry Sibley, discovered it, locked up and unloved. It has always remained hidden from public view.

But in 2016 the door in the shadow of The Citadel was opened and for the first time in its 300 year history the public were allowed to step over the threshold. It has now been granted Grade II listed status, protecting it from development.

34) Fairytale glen in ancient woodlands

Sharrah Pool is situated roughly a two-mile walk through Holne Woods, which are full of spectacular ancient trees.

The trees open out to form a fairy-like glen, and this is where you will find Sharrah Pool. The pool is roughly a 100m stretch, where the river opens up and pools out. There is a small waterfall located further upstream.

The pool is surrounded by large granite boulders which make the perfect sunbathing beds to while away the summer days on.

While the river is usually slow where the pool opens up, the flow can become fast and dangerous with heavy rainfall, so do take extra care.

Read more Devon stories here:

Things to do in Devon: fifty-three of the county's best attractions

Twenty-seven Devon pubs which are home to some of the county's greatest beer gardens

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The 10 best things to do in Devon

N ever mind itineraries and to do lists; the best way to experience Devon is to be impulsive and do as the mood (and weather) takes you. The best of the fun is outdoors, exploring the square-jawed scenery of Dartmoor and Exmoor national parks, cycling riverside trails, surfing, sailing, bird-watching on Lundy Island, and hiking the South West Coastal Path. For culture vultures, stately homes offer a taste of Devon high life, while sophisticated seaside towns such as Dartmouth run regular arts, music and food events and sailing regattas.

For further Devon inspiration, see our guides to the city's best hotels , restaurants , pubs , cream teas and beaches .

Take a hike on Britain's longest footpath

The South West Coast Path, Britain’s longest footpath, traces the both coasts of Devon, offering easy access to wild and windswept cliffs, secluded sandy coves and remote hamlets. There are occasional pubs and cafés on the path, and a regular bus network means you can dip in and out as you please. If you’re on a multi-day trip, Luggage Transfers  will drop off your luggage at your accommodation each day.

Insider tip: Clovelly to Hartland Point is the most dramatic section, while Bantham to Salcombe has a string of postcard-pretty beaches. The further away you are from a car park, the more likely you are to find a cove to yourself.

Contact:   southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Price: Free

Go bird-watching on Britain’s Galapagos

Lundy Island is a three-mile long granite outcrop off Hartland Point in north Devon. It’s a marine reserve, where twitchers, divers and snorkellers get up close and personal with seals, puffins, basking sharks and seabirds. Dating from 1958, the graceful Oldenburg sails several times a week from Bideford and Ilfracombe from April to October. It has wood panelling in its comfortable saloons and a deck for fair-weather. In winter (from November to March), a helicopter service operates from Hartland Point.

Insider tip:  If you want to see a particular species, drop in at the Marisco Tavern , the island's only restaurant, where locals will give you advice on where to spot it, while the pub’s reference books will help you identify local flora and fauna.

Contact:   landmarktrust.org.uk

Freewheel along Britain’s longest traffic-free cycle route

Following a disused railway line from Braunton to Meeth, the Tarka Trail has colourful Thomas the Tank Engine-style signal boxes and carriages on the sidings. The 180-mile route takes in ancient villages, wooded valleys, rivers and moorland, with the northerly section following the journey of Tarka the Otter, from Henry Williamson’s classic novel. Largely flat, the trail is perfect for children, with plenty of cafés en route.

Insider tip:  A day-trip between Great Torrington to Meeth (11 miles) gives a good taster, with stunning Dartmoor views and a regular bus service to take you back. Bike hire is available at Great Torrington.

Contact: tarkatrail.org.uk

Prices: Free

Stock up at a farmers’ market or farm shop

Devon’s market towns come alive at weekends with local producers selling fresh vegetables, artisan cheeses, preserves and meats on market stalls. Exeter Street Food Market is one of the best, serving up delicacies from Friday to Sunday in the city centre, while Chagford Farmers’ Fayre brings together Dartmoor’s finest producers, including Teign Valley Venison and The Dartmoor Charcuterie Company. Meanwhile, Ullacombe Farm Shop, near Haytor, sells traditional scrumpy, English wine, Dartmoor whisky, gins and vodkas, superb meat and handmade cheeses, while Dart’s Farm, near Topsham, stocks extensive ranges of Devon produce. 

Insider tip: Wherever you travel and eat in Devon, look out for the 'Love the Flavour' logo on menus and in shop windows – this affiliation of food suppliers and producers is committed to quality Devon food and drink.

Contact: streetfoodexeter.co.uk ; facebook.com/chagfordfarmersfayre ; dartmoorcharcuterie.co.uk ;  ullacombefarm.co.uk ;  dartsfarm.co.uk

Indulge in a traditional cream tea

Don’t even think about leaving Devon without indulging in this tea-time tradition. With so many offerings, it’s hard to choose a favourite, but Hele Corn Mill, a working watermill dating from 1525, tops our list for its twice-baked scones, with their perfectly crispy crusts and pillowy centres.

Insider tip:  Heated debate surrounds whether the jam or cream should go on first, but a recent study showed that the Devon approach of putting the jam on first ensures a more even spread of toppings. Find more of the best in our dedicated guide.

Contact:   helecornmill.com

Prices:  £

Blow away the cobwebs in Dartmoor National Park

There’s no better place in Devon to get some headspace than the wide open spaces of Dartmoor National Park, a 365 square-mile wilderness of wild moors, wooded glades, fairy-tale castles, cute villages and ancient hamlets. A walk up a Dartmoor tor – granite-topped hill – is a must. Look out for wild ponies, birds of prey, kingfishers, otters and rare butterflies.

Insider tip:  Dartmoor’s single-track narrow country lanes have few passing places so don’t attempt them unless you’re confident at reversing into tight spaces. If you’re unsure, wait for the other motorist to reverse (and hope they’re better at it than you).

Contact:   dartmoor.gov.uk

Visit Agatha Christie’s holiday home

Agatha Christie’s private holiday home, Greenway, on the River Dart is much as it was when the crime writer stayed here to write her book. First editions line the shelves, along with family photos and collections of botanical china and archaeological finds. Even if you’re not a Christie fan, the house is worth a visit for its beautiful setting on the River Dart and gardens. Don’t miss the peach house, winery and fernery.

Insider tip: The most scenic way to get to Greenway is by ferry or steam train from Dartmouth. You can drive, but parking is limited so you’ll need to book it ahead of your arrival.

Contact:  

nationaltrust.org.uk

See how the other half live

Powderham Castle is one of the oldest family seats in Devon, belonging to the Earl of Devon. Set in its own deer park, it has been added to and altered repeatedly over its 600-year history. Tours take in the medieval core, neo-classical areas and the Victorian kitchen. There are beautiful rose beds and a walled garden with a Victorian glasshouse.

Insider tip: You’ll have to hunt for it, but the working blacksmith’s forge  in the grounds is a highlight. Opening times vary from Powderham’s so check ahead.

powderham.co.uk

Visit a harbour town

Set on the River Dart, the harbour town of Dartmouth is a gem, with ancient narrow streets, boutique shops and stylish art galleries. Highlights include brunch at legendary café Alf Resco , a visit to Dartmouth Castle and Bayards Cove, a tour of Dartmouth Naval College , and a meal of southern European-style sharing plates at Andria .

Insider tip:  Escape summer crowds with Dartmouth’s nautical equivalent of an open-top bus tour ( dartmouthrailriver.co.uk ), a scenic passenger ferry that shuttles between Dartmouth and Kingswear.

Contact:   discoverdartmouth.com

Prices:  ££

Hang ten with the surfers

Regarded as one of the best places in the country to go surfing, Croyde Bay has gentle breaks for beginners and bigger swells for more experienced surfers. There’s a handful of local surf schools offering lessons with board and wetsuit hire included, as well as coasteering expeditions for non-surfers.

Insider tip:  For a grown-up surfing break, stay at Woolacombe Bay or  Saunton Sands Hotel .

Contact: Visitor's centre,  croydedevon.co.uk

Prices: Varied

How we choose

Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations.

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Join the outdoor adventure

Things to do in north devon this year.

Planning a trip to North Devon over Whit Week or later in the year? No doubt you already have an idea of how you want to spend your time, but if you’re not sure or you have some gaps in your itinerary, here are some suggestions of absolute must-do things you need to factor into your trip.

Go see the mountain goats

No, not the band, an actual herd of mountain goats! It isn’t just ponies you can find while exploring Exmoor , if you head to Valley of Rocks near Lynton and Lynmouth , you’ll find a herd of wild mountain goats roaming around the rocks. Aside from it being a lovely place for walks, a great photo spot and generally being very picturesque, spending a day spotting the goats makes for a free day out that you can turn into a game for the younger members of your group.

Head to Lundy Island

Whether you want to catch the ferry from Bideford or Ilfracombe, it’s easy to get to Lundy Island – you can even book to stay overnight if you can cope being away from electricity and the internet for that long! Lundy Island is a marine conservation area and is managed by both the Landmark Trust and the National Trust and is home to the southwest’s biggest population of puffins! It’s also a haven for the active, with mountain climbing, snorkelling and a host of other activities available.

Follow in the footsteps of Tarka the Otter

As arguably the most famous otter to come out of the UK, references to Tarka the Otter can be found all over North Devon. You can even follow in his footsteps by heading to the Tarka Trail , a 180 mile loop that takes you all around some of the most picturesque places in the region. You can either jump on your bikes or explore on foot and you can pick which bits of the trail you follow.

Discover Little Thailand

Ok, so if you’ve been to Thailand you might not see the comparison as being fair, but Broadsands Beach near Combe Martin is known locally as Little Thailand because it is pretty, secluded and is only visible at low tide. The best way to get there is by surfing or paddleboarding from Combe Martin beach and is a must for anyone who wants to experience the North Devon that locals do.

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to North Devon?

Find it below.

Things to do

North Devon has a wide variety of attractions on offer. From all-weather family attractions to award winning zoos, intriguing museums and beautiful parks and gardens, there’s something to suit everyone.

Find incredible hotels, campsites, holiday parks and more in North Devon. 

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The 15 Friendliest Cities In The South

You won’t meet a stranger in these Southern communities.

Southerners are known for their hospitality, so it’s only fitting that our cities and towns are some of the friendliest places on earth. Our mamas raised us to treat guests with the utmost respect, so if you’re from out of town, we’re rolling out the welcome wagon. You’ll never get lost because someone’s always around to point you in the right direction (and give you a lunch recommendation). Smiling, friendly faces are the norm rather than the exception—from the clerk at the drugstore to folks just passing by on the street. And we guarantee you’ll finish out your trip (no matter how brief) with a couple new friends.

While we like to think that all Southern cities are just as welcoming as the next, there are a few that stand out as being extra gracious. We polled the people who know the South best (that’s you–our readers!) to find out which places have made you feel especially warm and fuzzy. Here are the South’s 15 friendliest cities. Oh, and before y’all go and get all up in arms that your favorite place isn’t included, remember that this list only includes places with a population over 40,000. We’ve got your friendly small towns in a separate story.

How We Picked This List

An online survey was conducted by third-party agency Proof Insights among Southern Living consumers, asking them to name the friendliest people and places in the South. The survey was fielded from July 12 to August 23, 2023, and had over 20,000 respondents.

15. Cary, North Carolina

Courtesy of Visit Raleigh

The three cities that make up North Carolina’s Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill) have earned their keep as favorite Southern destinations, but a new kid on the block nearby has stolen the show as one of the South’s friendliest cities. Cary, once a minor suburb, has exploded into a major cultural hub while retaining its small-town character. Readers love the hospitality they receive at the big-city accommodations like the Umstead Hotel and Spa, but also called out devoted longtime residents like Ralph and Daphne Ashworth, who owned Ashworth Drugs in downtown Cary form 1957 through early 2024, for outstanding service.

14. Bentonville, Arkansas

ROBBIE CAPONETTO

The birthplace of Walmart, Bentonville builds its legacy around more than just the retail giant. Now known for its impressive art scene thanks to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary, as well as excellent outdoor activities. With a population around 60,000, readers commented on the city’s small-town and community-focused feel.

13. Austin, Texas

Over the past decade, Texas’s capital city has become one of the most sought-after places to live. Locals have always affectionately demanded that Austin be kept weird, but it’s the city’s “all are welcome” mentality that makes it one of the friendliest places in the South. Weird, lively, laidback, inviting, and genuine are all words readers used to describe Austin. One word you won’t catch anyone using to talk about the city: pretentious.   

12. San Antonio, Texas

The saying may be to “Remember the Alamo”, but what people might recall most about San Antonio is how friendly it is. The city gets together over its iconic River Walk, where restaurants, shops, and attractions are all plentiful. One of the city’s biggest assets is its diversity and the way it celebrates and welcomes all kinds of cultures. Its annual Fiesta is a 10-day celebration with more than 100 events that celebrates the history and culture of San Antonio. 

11. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Robbie Caponetto

A popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and our top pick for places to retire in the South , this riverfront city has it all. From Rock City to the Chattanooga Aquarium to plentiful hiking and biking trails. Readers noted that the city has a real sense of community and cited people like the late Luther Massengill, a local radio host, for leading the charge. Each year on his birthday, the town commemorates his incredibly giving legacy with a “Random Acts of Luther Day,” in which people demonstrate acts of kindness to others.

10. Lafayette, Louisiana

The character and culture of Lafayette are simply unmatched anywhere else in Cajun country. This is a place that’s proud of its heritage and isn’t afraid to let everyone know it. Every year, the city welcomes thousands of visitors to the three-day Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, which celebrates the music, crafts, art, and food of South Louisiana. Said one reader: “They don’t care who are you or where you come from, they’re still going to sweep you in, give you some food, and talk to you like you’ve been friends for five years.”

9. Lexington, Kentucky

Getty Images/Chris Boswell

Kentucky is the second largest city in Kentucky but steals the number one spot as the state’s friendliest place. Kindness is a universal virtue here, and its best emulated by locals and businesses devoted to the cause. DV8 Kitchen, a restaurant that employs a primarily second-chance work force, was listed time and time again by our readers as one of the places they love to support because of both its mission and its delicious food.

8. Franklin, Tennessee

Once a quiet suburb just south of Nashville, everyone (or so it seems) has been let in on the secret that is Franklin. Its 16-block downtown is jam-packed with restored Victorian-era buildings now housing chic modern businesses like singer-songwriter Holly Williams’s White Mercantile. And Franklin isn’t just friendly to two-legged visitors. As the pilot location for the Mars PetCare Better Cities for Pets program, more than 90 local businesses follow a “pet code of conduct” that welcomes dogs inside. Pet-friendly patios are popular across town, too.  

7. Asheville, North Carolina

Though Asheville sees upwards of 12 million visitors a year, at its heart it’s still the artsy little mountain town it has always been. The craft beer flows freely, the Friday night drum circle still welcomes everyone to join in, and the vibes are always good. Folks who voted Asheville as the South’s friendliest city noted its diversity, community-mindedness, and laid-back feel as some of its biggest strengths. Noted one reader, “It seems like it would be a clash of cultures, but I’ve never been to another place where everyone seems to be in a good mood all the time.”

6. Wilmington, North Carolina

LISA CORSON

We love our 2024 South’s Best City on the Rise for a lot of reasons: its scenic riverwalk, laidback beach communities, historic architecture, and wonderful dining scene—just to name a few. But what makes the coastal city truly special is the way it effortlessly blends big city attractions with smaller town charm. Said one reader, “The town is small enough that people still say ‘hello’, ‘good morning’, and ‘thank you’, but sophisticated enough to have the same amenities as cities that aren’t so friendly.

5. Nashville, Tennessee

Our readers sang the praises of the Music City, citing that though the destination has seen an influx of tourists in recent years (hello, bachelorette parties!), locals don’t seem to suffer any tourist fatigue. Said one reader: “We spent three days in Nashville doing the typical tourist things. There wasn’t one place that we went that the hospitality wasn’t friendly. Everyone wanted to know where we were from. It’s nice to walk into a store and be greeted.” Plus, there’s no easier place to make a friend than on the dance floor of a true Nashville honky tonk.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

“There’s a magnetism about New Orleans that grabs you right out of the gate,” says Today show co-anchor Hoda Kotb about the city that she loves and will forever consider her hometown. Anyone who has ever visited knows the feeling. It’s not uncommon to see a brass band marching down the street, folks having an Irish coffee well before noon, and an impromptu dance party breaking out—and that’s all on a random Monday. Every day’s a celebration in New Orleans and visitors have certainly picked up on the jovial spirit that can’t be replicated.

3. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville is one of those cities that still feels like a small town, and that’s precisely what we love about it. The downtown is walkable and manageable, but still offers plenty to see and explore, from independent bookstores to craft breweries. Falls Park on the Reedy is a gem of an attraction in the center of downtown where locals and visitors come together to enjoy riverside gardens and stunning waterfalls views from a lengthy suspension bridge. Time in the great outdoors is good for the soul, so maybe that’s what makes Greenville locals so sunny? A leisurely bike ride along the Swamp Rabbit Trail (with a stop for a treat Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery) could turn even the deepest of frowns upside down.

2. Savannah, Georgia

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There’s pure magic to be found in the shady squares and sun-speckled streets of Savannah. Everyone marvels at the majesty of the live oaks in Forsyth Park, but the city’s real beauty can be found in the way it fully buys into its title as the Hostess City of the South. The city’s public greenspaces and vibrant riverfront, lined with local shops and restaurants, are places that everyone can enjoy. When the weather is mild, don’t be surprised to find everyone’s front door propped open to let in a breeze from the river—but more importantly welcome guests inside.

1. Charleston, South Carolina

What more can we say about Charleston except that there’s a reason it’s been voted as your favorite city in our annual South’s Best poll for more years in a row than we can count on one hand. It’s the quintessential Southern city. There’s beautiful architecture, excellent dining, waterfront views, quaint streets, and an indescribably welcoming spirit that just puts a smile on your face. If a certain mouse hadn’t already declared his home the happiest place on earth, we’d venture to say that Charleston might claim the title. This anecdote from one of our readers exemplifies the city’s care: “I was walking down King Street with my family, and it started pouring rain. A perfect stranger stopped in his car, handed us an umbrella, said “Welcome to Charleston,” and drove away.

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• Electrostal History and Art Museum

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• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture

Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture and Art

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Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture and Art - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)