Places to visit
Click on each town or village to read more >
Exeter
is an intimate city brimming with character and steeped in ancient history. The City offers a wide range of attractions, facilities and entertainment making Exeter the perfect day out. Visits to the following are an absolute must: 850 year old cathedral, Britains only Underground Passages, Historic Quayside - array of craft and antique shops, pubs and tea rooms, Exeter Festival - held every year in the summer, Theatres, Art Centre and Art Galleries. “With a touch of buzzy, big city atmosphere and a thriving arts scene, Exeter is one of the liveliest cities in the southwest. The city’s long heritage means there are plenty of monuments and historical attractions to occupy at least a day’s sightseeing, and the excellent selection of bars, cafes and restaurants make Exeter a vibrant place to be after dark”
Topsham
Topsham is an attractive town on the Exe estuary, Devon, in England's Westcountry. Now part of Exeter, it nevertheless maintains a distinctive identity. Loved by its locals, and savoured by those who visit, Topsham offers river walks; wildlife; a Saturday morning market; many characterful shops, restaurants and inns; and quiet space to sit and watch the sailing boats go by.
Honiton
stands in the south-east of the county on the main road and rail routes from London to Exeter. It is a pleasant, busy market town with a growing population of over 12,000. Historically, the town was one of the centres of the medieval West Country cloth trade and later became famous for its lace. There is an excellent museum containing the main collection of Honiton Lace, while the High Street hosts specialist shops for both lace and pottery. Indeed just about everything is on the High Street, wide enough to allow parking on both sides and lined with Georgian buildings, many of which are former coaching inns which became favourite resting places for travellers. Small courtyards and alleyways immediately off the High Street provide compelling market places in their own right with a variety of small shops. Renowned for its antiques, Honiton's world-wide reputation is justified by the large number of antique shops and centres situated on or near the High Street itself, together with one auction house. With more than 30 dealers to choose from, the sheer number and range of antiques available attracts collectors, dealers and visitors from all over the world to visit what has become the major antiques centre in the south-west of England.
Beer
is a picturesque village with a fascinating past that includes smuggling and lace making. A colourful population of fishing boats, fresh fish for sale and mackerel fishing trips speak of Beer’s long fishing heritage. To neighbouring villages, residents of Beer, may sometimes be referred to as Spaniards. Tradition has it that a Spanish vessel was wrecked off the shore and that the crew settled in Beer which was thinly populated owing to the plague. Definitely somewhere to visit before you leave us!
Branscombe
is on your way back from Beer, curving along a spectacular valley to the sea, it is believed to be the longest village in the country. It is one of the most relaxing and picturesque villages in Devon, with it’s thatched cottages and colourful hanging baskets appearing on many Devon Picture postcards. The beach at Branscombe Mouth has plenty of parking, a thatched, licensed restaurant and an abundance of rock pools just waiting to be explored. Those keen on fishing can take a trip out on a boat to catch mackerel. We think it is truly beautiful here and worth a visit!
Ashburton
A lively centre for inland tourism, with walking, canoeing, pony trekking and fishing bringing many visitors to the town. Beside specialist shops for walkers, there are plenty of antique shops, galleries and a variety of eateries to sustain your interest. There is an amazing “Fish Deli” here which you must try, they have the most amazing hand dived scallops, the biggest I have ever seen! and a huge selection of stuffed olives! Ashburton has had a reputation for its pubs, inns and coaching houses for hundreds of years. Its importance as a Stannery Town and its location on the main road to London meant that many a weary and hungry traveller tarried a while.
Tiverton
A bustling, historical market town in the heart of Mid Devon, Tiverton has a wide range of attractions to interest the visitor. The castle was occupied by the Earls of Devon up to the 16th Century and the restored canal with a horse drawn passenger service follows a glorious route through unspoilt countryside. The town itself has a lively market with a farmers market the third Wednesday of every month as well as a number of shops, tearooms and restaurants. A church trail exploring many of the outstanding churches in the area, as well as a local town trail, are available, enabling you to discover the hidden historic and architectural gems of the town and offering a fascinating insight into their history. The recently restored historic pannier market holds regular events including antiques and farmers markets. Canal walks and horse-drawn boat cruises take place on the Grand Western Canal with an amazing 24 bridges along its 11-mile stretch!
Seaton
is situated at the mouth of the River Axe, it is famous for it’s heritage from railway. Seaton Tramway’s fleet of gleaming lovingly restored heritage trams makes a nostalgic progress along a three mile narrow gauge electric tramway through the beautiful Axe Valley with stops at Colyford and Colyton. Seaton also have a Marshes Nature Reserve where you may see wildfowl and wading birds in winter and dragonflies and butterflies in summer. The town itself has a good mix of beach themed shops, galleries, bookshops, antiques, crafts and gifts. Also excellent for walkers, there are stunning views of the Jurassic Coast from the South West Coast Path of Seaton.
Sidmouth
Sidmouth lies on the Jurassic Coast, and its Millennium Walkway passes beneath vivid red Triassic sandstone cliffs scoured and sculpted into fantastic shapes by the passage of ancient rivers. From here you can climb the South West Coast Path to Ladram Bay with its stunning red rock chimneys in one direction or picturesque Branscombe in the other.
Sidmouth approaches perfection as it has everything you could possibly want - beaches, stunning coastal walks, gardens, a theatre and cinema, stylish eating places, and some of the best shops in East Devon selling desirable items such as unusual gifts, designer clothing, and lifestyle goods.
Just a short distance from the town you will find a variety of experiences. To one side lies the dramatic heathland of Mutters Moor, the haunt of the elusive nightjar, while on Salcombe Hill the space age domes of the Norman Lockyer Observatory are an unexpected sight, offering regular open evenings - a unique opportunity to marvel at the night sky through powerful telescopes.
Salcombe
must be one of the most beautiful harbour towns in the world. Situated in the South Hams, at Devon's most southerly tip, Salcombe attracts visitors from all over the world at all times of year to enjoy many coast and country activities. Famous as a centre for sailing, diving and fishing the estuary has many sheltered, sandy beaches and is a base for walkers and others with a love of nature. The estuary also acts as home to a fleet of fishing boats which catch crab and lobster in local waters. Sometimes the arrival of dolphins and seals in the estuary generates excitement. Salcombe hosts a week long sailing regatta during the summer. In addition to sailing, visitors to Salcombe can visit fashionable shops, bars and restaurants, explore the popular sandy beaches using the local Salcombe ferry services or go for a hike on the South West Coast Path.
Exmouth
is the oldest seaside town in Devon. It is a beautiful estuary town in a glorious setting on Devon's south coast. It boasts the longest seafront in Devon with 2 miles of golden sandy beach, fascinating rock pools and sparkling sea, it truly represents British seaside at it’s best. Exmouth is the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast. The town, too, is full of life all the year round, with a spring arts festival, the Summer Fun Time programme, the Sailing Regatta, the October Carnival, the Christmas Cracker and, of course, the famous Christmas Day Swim.
Dawlish
is a fascinating Regency resort town nestled attractively between steep surrounding hills with the railway sweeping along the entire seafront. Character cottages, impressive villas, Regency and early Victorian architecture, which has inspired authors to put pen paper. The narrow streets, bustling shops, famous Black Swans, the brook that gurgles merrily through the Pleasure Gardens and of course the welcoming tea rooms offering the traditional scrumptious Devon Cream Tea. Dawlish Museum is a real gem and something not to be missed, or if you are more creative the Shaftesbury Theatre may be of interest. With walks along the seafront or in the surrounding hills, this is just a taste of what Dawlish has to offer.
Woolacombe
Its beach has been voted one of Britain's best and lies between Morte Point and Baggy Point. This three-mile long stretch of golden sand has won both the blue flag and Premier Seaside Beach awards for it's cleanliness, water quality and facilities. Life guards ensure safe family swimming during the summer and surfers come from all over the country to enjoy the great waves and clean water. Woolacombe itself is a lively village with great pubs and restaurants. Visitors of all ages will find plenty to do away from the beach. There's a friendly, laid-back atmosphere here which visitors are sure to enjoy.
Dartmoor
One of the last few real wildernesses in southern England, Dartmoor is sheer bliss for outdoorsy types. You could spend your time simply rambling over the moors, pottering about the tors and generally finding the peace that modern life has rendered so scarce.
Dartmouth
the Jewel of the South Hams. Ancient narrow streets house boutique shops, art galleries & delicatessens. A cobbled market place features colourful stalls and Farmers markets supplying local produce – used by their gourmet restaurants, pubs & cafes. Sail, fish, explore by boat or come at festival time. Take the steam train ride to Paignton for a treat or enjoy visits to the Castle, Britannia Royal Naval College and National Trust Gardens. Walk the South West Coast Path or laze on their clean beaches.
Torquay
Torquay's waterfront is the focus of life in the town. Here you'll find the palm-lined promenade, seafront gardens, a lively harbour and an international marina. The new Living Coasts attraction adds to the variety of the new waterfront and the illuminated bridge is a great backdrop to a relaxing evening drink. Yet within minutes of Torquay town centre there are beautiful beaches easily accessible by foot, road or sea. There is an abundance of pavement cafes, Torquay pubs, Torquay restaurants and nightlife in Torquay, good quality shops and a host of attractions to suit every interest.
Clovelly
Clovelly is an historical, fishing village clinging to a wooded 400-foot cliff, west of Bideford. There is no traffic on its tumbling, cobbled street. Flower-strewn cottages line the descent to the tiny working port and lifeboat station. Despite the peaceful atmosphere there is much to do - shops, craft workshops, two museums, an excellent introductory A/V show and the famous donkeys. The modern history of Clovelly started with the acquisition of Clovelly Estate by the Hamlyn family from the Carys in 1738. The Carys had lived in the village for seven generations. Since then Hamlyn and Clovelly have been synonymous, with the ownership of the estate still being in the family.
Killerton House and Gardens
Would you give away your family home for your political beliefs? Sir Richard Acland did just this with his estate, at 2,590 hectares (6,400 acres) one of the largest the Trust has acquired (includes 20 farms and 200-plus cottages). Killerton House, built in 1778–9, brings to life generations of the Aclands, one of Devon's oldest families. 'Dressing up, dressing down', this year's historic fashion exhibition, explores the numerous changes of dress required daily. The gem of Killerton, beautiful year round, is the garden created by John Veitch – with rhododendrons, magnolias and rare trees surrounded by rolling Devon countryside
Coldharbour Mill
a 200 year old spinning mill set in the tranquil Devon village of Uffculme. Built by Thomas Fox to spin woollen and later worsted yarns in 1799, Coldharbour Mill is a rare example of surviving Georgian architecture, industry and enterprise.Since reopening as a museum in 1982 the mill has continued to produce high quality worsted knitting yarn on its period machinery. Take a fascinating factory tour to understand how the hand processes of spinning and weaving are performed on machines and the role of Thomas Fox in bringing these new inventions into the South West. Learn about Victorian mill conditions and how Quaker attitudes influenced the treatment and welfare of mill employees, many of whom were children.
Bickleigh Mill
one of Devon's largest most exciting rural shopping, eating and recreation destination housed within this 18th century historic working water Mill. Today’s Mill blends the traditions of a bygone age with contemporary living and offers out of town shopping and dining in the most idyllic of settings. Throughout the year you can make a day of your visit in their restaurant, shops and extensive grounds offering a great day out for all the family.
Powderham Castle
Powderham Castle is located in a unique, picturesque setting just outside Exeter, beside the Exe estuary. Six hundred years of history are contained within the walls of one of England's oldest family homes. Sir Philip Courtenay began building it in 1391 and it has remained in the same family to this day, currently home to the 18th Earl & Countess of Devon. The magical setting and convenient location makes it the perfect venue for all manner of events including wedding receptions and business functions. For locals and visitors to Devon it is a 'must see' and with its many attractions - a wonderful family day out!
Tiverton Castle
Few buildings evoke such a feeling of history as venerable Tiverton Castle, which celebrated its 900th anniversary in 2006. Originally built in 1106 by order of Henry I, and later rebuilt and much enlarged in the 13th and 14th centuries, it was once home of the powerful medieval Earls of Devon and of a Plantagenet Princess. With later additions and alterations down the centuries all periods of architecture from medieval to modern can be seen, with beautiful walled gardens within the romantic ruins. Besieged during the English Civil War by General Sir Thomas Fairfax, it fell due to a lucky shot hitting a drawbridge chain. This was the only time in its long history that it saw battle. Part Scheduled Ancient Monument and part Grade I Listed, the Castle is the private home of Angus and Alison Gordon, who are happy to share it with others from Easter Sunday to the end of October.
Exeter Cathedral
Pilgrims and visitors have been making their way to Exeter Cathedral since medieval times. It is one of the most visited places in the west country. Built in the decorated gothic style, it has the longest uninterrupted medieval gothic vaulting in the world.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park covers an area of 368 square miles, making it the largest and wildest area of open country in Southern England. Lots of people visit the National Park to enjoy the beautiful scenery and to recharge their batteries, but many come to get active! With over 450 miles (730km) of public rights of way, there is an abundance of walking routes to suit all tastes and abilities. Dartmoor also boasts a variety of cycle routes, both on and off road, making it as challenging as you want it. Every season brings its own delights, from the beautiful bluebells and birdsong in Spring, to swathes of pink heather and yellow gorse with darting butterflies in Summer. Autumn sees the changing colour of the landscape and bracing walks across the tors, and, thanks to Dartmoor’s dark night skies, wonderful star-gazing opportunities in Winter.
Darts Farm
From the humble beginnings of the farm shop hut nearly 40 years ago Darts Farm has continually evolved. Their farm shop is still at the centre of their success, with the emphasis on food that is locally grown reared, baked or caught. They have an on-site master butcher, fishmonger, baker, deli, cider maker and restaurant. They also have a fantastic lifestyle shopping experience to offer. A compilation of carefully handpicked specialist retailers, such as AGA, Fired Earth and Cotswold Outdoor as well small independent boutiques such as Orange Tree, Rachel King Florist and The Treatment Loft health and beauty all under one roof. They are still a working farm, selling all of our home-grown produce directly through the farm shop. They have animals to visit, pick-your-own fruit and vegetables, fishing ponds, the Maize maze and a farm walk that will take you around the beautiful vegetable fields.
Tiverton Canal Co
Located in Mid Devon on the banks of the Grand Western Canal, the Tiverton Canal Co., is a unique tourist attraction and offers an enjoyable family day out. There are plenty of fun things to do for all the family with boat hire - self drive boats, rowing boats and Canadian canoes, or a boat trip on the all weather barge “Tivertonian”. The horse drawn barge is available for day or evening private charter. Also at Tiverton Wharf you can find a canal gifts shop with a range of quality country gifts relating to canals, shire horses, waterside wildlife and everything bargee! http://www.tivertoncanal.co.uk/
The Tarka Line
The Tarka Line runs for 39 miles between Exeter and Barnstaple, following the gentle river valleys of the Yeo and Taw. From Eggesford to Barnstaple the line forms part of the Tarka Trail, a 180 mile long distance route tracing the journeys of 'Tarka the Otter' in Henry Williamson's classic novel. The scenery along the line has changed little over the years and remains predominantly rural. The soil is rich and red, created from the red sandstone for which this part of Devon is famous. Livestock and dairy farming are typical in this rolling countryside, with fields divided by traditional hedges. Large settlements are scarce, but look out for small rural villages and farms, some with thatched roofs.
Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern is a spectacular natural cave on the coast of south Devon. The cave is only a short walk from the beach and the beautiful South West Coast Path.Undoubtedly Kents Cavern is one of Britain's most special caves. The incredible geology and rich archaeological heritage of the cave has been astounding scientists and visitors alike for centuries. Records show the mysteries of the caves have been enticing explorers to venture into their depths since 1571. However, archaeological evidence and research reveals that people and animals have been visiting the caves for hundreds of thousands of years.
Escot Historic Gardens
For all lovers of Nature, Escot is a totally new gardens experience. It is uniquely attractive to garden enthusiasts and families alike. Here are champion trees and elegant shrubs amidst woodland paths, picnic spots and forest playgrounds. As the historian Polwhele said back in the eighteenth century: ‘‘Perhaps there are no plantations in Devonshire so strong and luxuriant as those at Escot.’’ Against the backdrop of this beautiful corner of East Devon, visitors can solve the world class maze, letterbox around the estate (a kind of nature-based treasure hunt), watch the wildlife (including otters, birds of prey, wild boar and red squirrels), discover the Play Barn and the exciting forest play areas (including Forest Leap, a unique woodland drop slide) and enjoy their home cooked local food and delicious cream teas.
Exeter's Underground Passages
Dating from 14th century, these medieval passages under Exeter High Street are a unique ancient monument: no similar system of passages can be explored by the public elsewhere in Britain. They were built to house the pipes that brought fresh water to the city. Visitors to the Underground Interpretation Centre pass through an exhibition and video presentation before their guided tour. There is also a gift shop selling souvenirs of Exeter and the Passages.
Diggerland
Diggerland gives children and adults the chance to ride on and drive various construction machinery, from dumper trucks, mini diggers and giant diggers. It makes a fun day for all the family.
South Devon Railway
The South Devon Railway is a fantastic, steamy day out! It’s one of the West Country’s top tourist attractions and will appeal to everyone in the family! The railway is an outstanding seven-mile train ride behind a magnificent GWR steam engine between Buckfastleigh and Totnes, along one of England’s most beautiful stretches of river. There is loads to see and do. We have a play area, beautiful gardens, a riverside picnic area, a museum, workshop and refreshment rooms and a great gift shop. Buckfastleigh station, which is just off the A38, midway between Exeter and Plymouth, has plenty of free car parking. The SDR station at Totnes is a short walk from Totnes town and the main line station. And with joint tickets available for Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies and the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, you have the pulling power of a whole day filled with fun and interest!
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Bicton Park is a magical blend of 18th century tranquillity and modern-day facilities for all the family. There is a miniature village, large climbing camp, a nature trail, maze, mini golf and a children´s football pitch. A tour of the 63 acre park, either on foot or aboard the narrow-gauge Bicton Woodland Railway, reveals many fascinating features. There is a Secret Garden near the quaint old Hermitage summerhouse, some amazing seashells in the American Garden´s Shell House, and a large collection of agricultural and horticultural implements, including traction engines, in the Countryside Museum. Rare conifer trees grow in the Pinetum, near which there are play areas for children.
The Big Sheep
The Big Sheep is located on the North Devon coast and is a leading member of Devon´s Top Attractions. You´ll be assured of a big welcome at this fun filled attraction, ensuring everyone in the the family has a truly great day out whatever the weather. With hilarious shows running all day to entertain the whole family and a huge indoor playground to tire everyone out, you´ll be having the best day of your holiday baa none!
Crealy Great Adventure
Enter the land of Devon’s Crealy and ride the BIG six! Fly through the air, splash through flowing water, explore mystical woodland and meet the cutest creatures. With huge rides, masses of indoor entertainment, plus outdoor adventures, the region’s friendliest animals and brand NEW attractions, you’ll take home more precious memories than ever before. Crealy is the perfect all weather destination with HUGE indoor play areas. Scramble around the Adventure Zone with six super slides, aerial walkways, climbing nets, ball pools and mazes – with two floors to explore, it’s a double helping of fun! Especially for the little-ones, The Magical Kingdom offers two enclosed soft play areas for hours safe play and mini adventures.
The Donkey Sanctuary
Just outside the town of Sidmouth, The Donkey Sanctuary is home to around 500 donkeys. Set in unspoilt farmland and countryside, visitors return time and again to meander among the donkeys and absorb the serene and relaxed surroundings. The Donkey Sanctuary´s aim is to prevent the suffering of donkeys worldwide, through the provision of high quality, professional advice, training and support on donkey welfare. No donkey is ever refused admission to the Sanctuary - provided it has a certificate of fitness to travel, and each donkey is guaranteed a life of loving care and attention.
Beer Quarry Caves
Beer Quarry Caves, a vast complex of man-made caverns created by centuries of quarrying Beer Stone. Originally worked by the Romans, supplied stone for 24 cathedrals including Exeter and St Pauls. Beer stone is ideal for fine detail carvings, but hardens when exposed to the air. A small museum is housed within the Roman section of the caves containing pieces of carved Beer stone, tools, ancient documents and photographs. See the methods used to quarry and deliver the huge blocks of stone, the working conditions and the hardships and dangers endured by the work-force.
Go Ape
Think you, your friends and family can handle 3 hours of tree top adventure? Are you wild enough to climb 30ft up a rope ladder, Tarzan Swing into a giant rope net then zip wire through trees, crawl through tunnels and tackle high wire rope bridges? If the answer’s yes, you’re ready to Go Ape.
Quadworld
Multi award-winning Quad World where everyone can join in the fastest growing sport in the UK! Never tried a quad before?, No problem! You will get full tuition on a one-to-one basis and full protective clothing (upper body armour and full face helmets).
