Before moving to Devon, we’d visit every chance we could to explore both the North and South coasts and everywhere in between. Our adventures through Devon’s rugged moors, scenic coastal paths, and endless beaches were exactly what we were looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure and great spots to explore that we couldn’t resist making the move from Wales to Devon, deciding it was the perfect place to raise our family. Even though we now call Devon home, it hasn’t stopped us from booking staycations and weekend getaways. The beauty of Devon is that it offers something for everyone, all year round.
Whether you visit during the quieter, off-season months when you have the walks and beaches all to yourself, or in summer when you can soak up the sun on the many stunning beaches, there’s always a good reason to visit. Devon is one of those places where you can move at a slower pace, enjoy outdoor adventures, and still find time to relax. Over the years, we’ve discovered some absolute gems – our favourite places to stay, eat, and explore – and we can’t wait to share them with you. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a beach lover, a café-goer, or just someone looking to enjoy the beauty of Devon, you’re in for a treat. So, here’s a roundup of some of the top 6 best places to stay and visit in Devon.
Woolacombe – A Beach Lover’s Dream
Woolacombe is one of those places where you instantly feel like you’re on holiday the moment you arrive. The expansive sands of Woolacombe stretch as far as the eye can see, with stunning views toward Saunton Sands, which makes for a lovely coastal walk. The beaches are perfect for everything – from lazing in the sun to sandcastle building to surfing the waves. For surfers, Woolacombe (and the nearby Croyde) offers some of the best surfing in the UK on the right day.
But there’s more to Woolacombe than just its famous beach. We love heading to the coastal paths near Saunton Sands for a hike – it’s one of our favourite walks. The headland offers expansive views of the coastline, and there’s easy parking so you can start your hike at your own pace. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the beauty of the coastline without the hustle and bustle of the town.
If you’re looking for accommodation, there are plenty of options, from cosy cottages to hotels with sea views. Our favourite spots to stay include The Woolacombe Bay Hotel, a charming Victorian hotel offering a homely atmosphere and stunning ocean views, and Croyde Bay Holiday Resort, which provides everything from tent pitches to luxurious lodges. If you’re seeking something more budget and family then the lovely staff and included tasty breakfast at Saffron House, could be the perfect way to wind say after a day of adventure at the beach.
And let’s not forget the nearby Ilfracombe, where we got married. The Victorian beaches, with their picturesque views and nostalgic charm, are still some of our favourite spots in the area. Ilfracombe feels like a step back in time, and we always make at least one trip a year to revisit. It’s a lovely town to explore, with its historic harbour, quaint cafés, and stunning cliffs.
Lynton and Lynmouth – The Exmoor Enchantment
For those who prefer a more tranquil escape, Lynton and Lynmouth is a must-visit. These twin towns perched on the edge of Exmoor National Park are a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The stunning landscapes of Exmoor, with its wild moors, woodlands, and steep cliffs, create the perfect setting for outdoor adventures. The walking trails around these villages are some of the best in Devon, and whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone.
Lynton and Lynmouth also offer a unique blend of coastal charm and countryside appeal. Take the Lynmouth to Lynton Cliff Railway, the world’s steepest fully water-powered railway, for spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. We went very recently with our 6 and 8 year old they both loved it.
For a stay full of character and comfort, The North Cliff Hotel offers fantastic views, a cosy atmosphere, a very family-friendly atmosphere, and a delicious breakfast. Another gem is The Crown Hotel, offering a tranquil B&B experience. The hotel is located right in the heart of the town, and after a day of exploring the moors, you’ll appreciate the homely, relaxed vibe.
Dartmoor – The Heart of Devon’s Wilderness
If you’re craving adventure and wild landscapes, Dartmoor National Park is where you want to be. We’ve spent countless days hiking through Dartmoor’s rugged terrain, discovering its ancient stone circles, wild ponies, and mysterious tors. Whether you’re walking the Two Moors Way or taking a gentle stroll along the River Dart, the beauty of Dartmoor is unparalleled. The dramatic views, the stillness of the landscape, and the ever-changing weather make Dartmoor a magical place for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Hint: Some extra activities our children love.
- Geocaching: You can find them hidden all over the tors. For extra fun you can always take something to add to the boxes, we love to add stamps or pens.
- Folklore of the Moor – There are lots of myths and legends that we love to share as we visit locations, we find them as interesting as the children.
- Climbing or Scrambling: You can get a guide with all the gear to take you unless you are already knowledgeable in climbing or you can stick to scrambling and creating your own problems on the rock to solve.
- Wild Swimming: Dartmoor has some great wild swimming spots the children love Bellever.
Helpful resources to make the most of your time on Dartmoor:
For those looking for a cosy retreat after a day on the moors, we recommend staying at Fox and Hounds Hotel, an excellent base for walking enthusiasts. It’s budget-friendly and simple, but it provides all the basics for a comfortable stay. For a more luxurious experience, those looking for an unforgettable splurge cash kind of treat then Bovey Castle has everything to make the moors an extra special trip, or for a mid-range treat stay at The Moorland Hotel, where you are only minutes away from Haytor and other great walks, plus your stay includes a delicious breakfast before you begin exploring.
Time for an adventure
Explore The Best Dartmoor Stays
Torbay, also known as The English Riviera – Sun, Sea, and Scenic Views
We can’t talk about Devon without mentioning the English Riviera – home to Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. The area offers stunning coastlines, gentle beaches, and a relaxed pace of life. Torquay, in particular, is known for its palm-lined promenades and lively harbour (although we prefer to avoid the town centre), and it’s a wonderful base for exploring the surrounding areas. From Kents Cavern, a prehistoric cave system, to the Victorian Babbacombe Model Village, or a Round Robin Trip that includes the steam train and boats to get around the area, there’s something for everyone.
For a stay with spectacular views, The Berry Head, in Brixham is a wonderful choice. Located on the seafront, this grand building is perfect for those looking to enjoy the best of the English Riviera while staying in comfort. For a more outdoors and unique experience, try Shepherd Hut in Brixham offers a cosy atmosphere and is an ideal spot for those wanting to experience the charming fishing town.
The South Hams – A Coastal Paradise with Character and Charm
The South Hams in South Devon is one of our favourite hidden gems. With its stunning beaches, rolling hills, and quaint villages, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and coastal relaxation. Whether you’re hiking along the South West Coast Path, exploring the charming town of Salcombe, or relaxing on the golden sands of Bantham Beach, the South Hams offers something for everyone.
The region is famous for its breathtaking coastlines, with secluded beaches and hidden coves waiting to be discovered. Bigbury-on-Sea, with its iconic Burgh Island, and the peaceful Thurlestone Bay are just a couple of the beautiful spots to visit. The walking trails along the cliffs are perfect for nature lovers, offering panoramic views of the sea and the rugged coast.
Modbury, a quiet village, offers a taste of traditional Devon life with cobbled streets and independent shops. The area is also great for birdwatching and nature walks, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
When it comes to accommodation, the South Hams offers a range of options. Although the truth is it’s one of the most expensive areas to visit in Devon, especially around Salcombe, there are some great deals to be had in and around Totnes, but you are a slightly further drive to the coast. You can see why, but we often prefer to stay outside and travel in to visit for the day. Having said that there are some beautiful hotels with great views and excellent service. We have also stayed at some excellent campsites.
Exeter – History Meets Modern Comfort
Exeter, the vibrant capital of Devon, is a city full of history and charm. With its stunning Exeter Cathedral, beautiful medieval architecture, and lively shopping scene, it’s the perfect place to soak up the local culture. We’ve spent many weekends here, exploring the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, walking along the quayside, where you can also hire bikes and canoes, going to the underground passages and enjoying delicious meals at local restaurants.
Staying in Exeter offers plenty of variety. As far as cities in the UK go it’s fairly affordable and we’d recommend a visit around Christmas time to visit the markets. For a bit of luxury and easy access to the city centre for an excellent price, we recommend Hotel Indigo or Queens Court Hotel. At both places, the staff went out of their way to make sure our family had an excellent stay. Exeter is also known for its easy access to the surrounding countryside, making it a great base for exploring Devon’s best outdoor spots, probably why it is one of our favourite cities.
Our Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring the stunning beaches of the North Devon coast, hiking through the wilds of Dartmoor, or soaking up the charm of Exeter and the English Riviera, Devon has something special to offer everyone. From cosy countryside retreats to beachside getaways, our experiences have shown us that no matter when you visit, Devon’s diverse landscapes and outdoor experiences will leave you inspired and rejuvenated. So, pack your bags, leave the stress behind, and let the beauty of Devon work its magic. Who knows, you might do what we did and end up living here!
