Summary
In the western region of England, Devon is a favored holiday destination known for its stunning contrasts and diversity.
The southern part features serene resorts along the English Riviera, the fossil-laden cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, and picturesque estuaries dotted with charming waterside towns.
Inland, you will discover the ancient wilds of Dartmoor and Exmoor, lands steeped in legend and folklore, where hardy ponies roam freely.
The rugged northern coast, characterized by its craggy headlands, expansive sandy beaches, and surging surf, offers an alluring escape. Regardless of where you explore, indulging in cream tea with Devon’s exquisite clotted cream is essential.
1. Dartmoor
Dartmoor represents the largest and least populated open area in southern England, shrouded in mystery and visual splendor.
This wilderness is rich in tales of phantoms, spectral creatures, and pixies, inspiring artists and authors for centuries, notably Arthur Conan Doyle, who penned the Hound of the Baskervilles here.
The granite formations, which burst through at Dartmoor’s tors (elevated hills), contribute to the unique ambiance of the landscape, as these are the highest peaks in Southern England.
Granite has been carved into numerous monuments across Dartmoor, dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, testament to the enduring nature of this resilient stone.
2. Exeter
This remarkable university city hints at its ancient heritage, having served as the most southwesterly Roman fortification in the British Isles.
Be sure to visit the Gothic cathedral, justifiably celebrated as one of England’s most beautiful architectural marvels.
Stand within the nave and appreciate the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling of any structure in the nation.
Explore the 14th-century Guildhall, the oldest civic building still fulfilling its original purpose, and delve into Exeter’s rich trading history along the historic quayside.
Additionally, the medieval subterranean tunnels and the notable Royal Albert Memorial Museum offer countless avenues for exploration.
3. Plymouth
Few places can rival Plymouth’s rich maritime heritage, forever linked to illustrious figures such as Sir Francis Drake and the Mayflower, which departed for America from this very port.
Observe the magnificent seascape of Plymouth Sound from Plymouth Hoe, mirroring the vantage point that Sir Francis Drake is said to have enjoyed while engaged in a game of bowls before embarking on his warship to confront the Spanish Armada at the Battle of Gravelines in 1588. The Barbican district is the most historic area within Plymouth, featuring cobblestone streets, historic inns, and contemporary artists’ studios and galleries.
4. Torquay
Devon’s temperate climate renders it a more reliable beach destination than nearly any location in England, with Torquay standing out as a prime example.
This charming coastal town boasts nine sandy beaches along its seafront, three of which have received Blue Flag status for water quality and visitor amenities.
These exquisite beaches also complement a variety of engaging family activities.
Kents Cavern showcases 700,000 years of human history, offering an exhilarating anthropological dimension to this remarkable natural formation.
Additionally, Babbacombe features a cliff-top district home to a notable miniature village, the Living Coasts Zoo, and the elegant Cockington Country House and park.
5. Dartmouth
Finding a more picturesque coastal town in England than Dartmouth would be a challenge.
Situated on the western bank of the Dart Estuary, the harbor has been a hub for seafaring activities for centuries.
Dartmouth was the departure point for knights heading off to the Crusades, and privateers were active in the town as early as the medieval period.
The winding alleys and lanes, such as Smith Street and Duke Street, retain a Tudor appearance, lined with historic inns and merchants’ houses.
Admire the Grade I-listed Butterwalk, a charming row of corbelled houses upheld by stone columns.
Mystery enthusiasts may wish to visit Greenway, the holiday retreat of Agatha Christie.
6. Exmoor
Exmoor, overlapping with the adjacent county of Somerset, is one of Devon’s national parks, hugging the northern coastline of the county.
This region features untamed sandstone moors, accessible via over 1,000 kilometers of footpaths and bridleways that traverse rivers and meander through lush valleys, leading to summits such as Dunkery Hill, towering at 520 meters.
From the Middle Ages until the 20th century, the local economy thrived on the wool trade.
This legacy is visible in the intriguing and beautiful remnants of the industry, such as historic water mills and yarn markets.
Exmoor Ponies roam freely within the park, known not merely as a breed but as a species closely related to wild horses.
7. Woolacombe
Along the North Devon Coast, Woolacombe’s beach is often heralded as one of the finest in Europe, featuring expansive sands framed by green hills and ideal surfable waves.
This destination attracts both families and sun-seekers, with ample space for all upon its three-mile stretch.
For optimal surf conditions, enthusiasts need only venture a couple of miles down the coast to Croyde, noted for having one of the finest beach breaks in the country under the right conditions; the perfectly formed A-frame barrel is best enjoyed in winter due to favorable offshore winds and a robust Atlantic swell.
8. Totnes
Located on the River Dart in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Totnes is a distinctive town.
This uniqueness is largely due to its alternative community that promotes artistic and musical endeavors, manifesting in a bi-weekly market that features organic and fair-trade goods.
Visiting Totnes, one may appreciate its independent character through numerous locally-owned shops and restaurants, providing a refreshing contrast to conventional English high streets.
For those interested in history and culture, the ruins of Totnes Castle present a glimpse into the past, while the splendid Dartington Hall resonates with 14th-century architecture, and Tudor Berry Pomeroy Castle highlights the rich history of the renowned Pomeroy and Seymour families.
9. Sidmouth
Unlike several places previously discussed, Sidmouth began as an unassuming fishing village until affluent Georgians and Victorians flocked to enjoy the sea air and the refreshing waters at its pebbly beach.
This influx over a few decades transformed the town, resulting in numerous streets lined with stuccoed and colorful hotels and residences, alongside an elegant esplanade overlooking the beach.
Landward from Sidmouth, the town is enveloped by the East Devon Area of Natural Beauty, while coastal landscapes are defined by the striking red cliffs from the Triassic period.
For an authentic cultural experience, visit during the initial week of August for the Sidmouth Folk Festival, featuring 700 events at various venues throughout the town.
10. Jurassic Coast
To the east and west of Sidmouth lies Devon’s segment of the Jurassic Coast, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This coastline unveils 185 million years of geological history shaped by coastal erosion.
This landscape reflects various prehistoric environments—marsh, sea, and desert—revealing fossils of diverse flora and fauna that once thrived here.
Fossil collectors will find the East Devon coast particularly enchanting, retracing the path of Mary Anning, whose significant discoveries in the 1800s revolutionized the understanding of prehistoric life on Earth.
11. Paignton
Located centrally in Torbay, the coastline unofficially recognized as the English Riviera, Paignton serves as a quaint seaside retreat for both families and couples alike.
If you are seeking abundant entertainment for children, Paignton Beach is your destination, featuring an expansive pleasure pier and the creatively designed Geoplay Park along the foreshore.
Paignton Zoo Environmental Park stands out as a leading animal attraction committed to conservation, ranking among England’s premier zoos.
For spacious, seemingly endless shores, nearby Goodrington Sands or the stunning Broadsands provide ample options.
The historic Dartmouth steam railway adds a touch of Victorian charm, with its grand locomotives traversing above the beaches during the summer months.
12. Exmouth
The coastal resort of Exmouth is spectacularly positioned on the east bank of the River Exe, right where it meets the sea.
The stunning views across the estuary from the town’s esplanade are remarkable, and at Exmouth Landing, one can embark on a ferry for a brief trip across to the village of Starcross on the opposing bank.
Exmouth’s sandy shores are delightful, with the Southwest Coast Path leading quickly to Orcombe Point’s rugged cliffs and the natural beaches of Devon Cliffs a little further down.
Nearby, the quirky A La Ronde, a 16-sided house from the 1700s, welcomes visitors thanks to the National Trust.
13. Tavistock
As an alternative to Devon’s coastal resorts, Tavistock is a rural market town situated at the edge of Dartmoor to the west.
Historically, Tavistock was renowned for its stannaries, or tin mines, which were exclusive to Cornwall and Devon.
Across the border, these iconic sites hold UNESCO listing, and since the 1300s, the Pannier Market has remained in operation.
Unlike many of the country’s markets, this one retains its vibrant character and brims with stalls selling everything from furniture and handicrafts to regional delicacies like fudge and jams.
After exploring the market, visitors can stroll around Tavistock’s charming landmarks, which include the ruins of Tavistock Abbey and Bedford Square, where the lovely Gothic town hall awaits.
14. Ilfracombe
Set amidst rolling countryside that cascades dramatically down to the sea, Ilfracombe is a picturesque town that blends rustic charm with coastal enjoyment.
Following the South West Coast Path provides breathtaking views en route to Ilfracombe from Hillsborough Hill, showcasing the lush greenery and headlands that cradle the town.
The harbor is crowned by Lantern Hill, which features a 14th-century chapel that has historically guided vessels to port since the 1600s.
From the harbor, you may catch a boat to Lundy Island, a sanctuary for various seals and puffins.
15. Seaton
The tranquil seaside town of Seaton presents an appealing option for those seeking a convenient location along the Jurassic Coast.
A newly established visitor center provides additional insights about the coastline and complements an afternoon of fossil exploration.
The Seaton Tramway, a heritage railway, operates alongside the Axe River Estuary, taking guests to the charming towns of Colyton and Colyford.
Just a short distance west of Seaton lies the village of Beer, featuring towering limestone cliffs that have been extensively quarried since medieval times for the stone utilized in many churches and cathedrals, including Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.
The quarry’s tunnels have since been transformed into an intriguing tourist destination.
