Introducing Devon

Monday 14 December 2020
Traditional cottages in Clovelly, Devon, England

Unspoilt villages, rugged moorland and golden beaches – Devon is brimming with heritage, natural beauty and fresh sea air. From tranquil boat trips along the Jurassic Coast and hikes through National Parks to surfing in azure waters and tucking into locally caught seafood, here’s a taste of all Devon has in store for those dreaming of a British adventure…

 

Coastal delights

With the Bristol Channel to the north and the English Channel to the south, Devon is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Britain.

Why not start with Croyde Bay, in North Devon. This glistening beach is surrounded by sand dunes and benefits from impressive waves, making it a popular surfing spot. Those longing for sand between their toes can also visit nearby Woolacombe Beach, which boasts three miles of uninterrupted golden sand to explore. Alternatively there’s Saunton Sands. Suitable for beginner surfers and swimmers, this picturesque beach is highly accessible with all-terrain wheelchair hire on offer, and is backed by Braunton Burrows, a system of sand dunes teaming with rare local wildlife.

Fancy sitting back and enjoying a tour of Devon’s coastal delights? Hop on a Stuart Line Cruise to enjoy a calming voyage down the River Exe, or glide alongside England’s only natural World Heritage Site, the stunning Jurassic Coast and its fossil-filled cliffs, which reveal 185 million years of history.

 

Captivating countryside

Devon’s natural beauty doesn’t stop at the coast. Travel a short distance inland from Torquay or Plymouth and visitors will discover the rugged moorlands, river valleys and ancient stone circles of Dartmoor National Park. It’s also home to herds of wild ponies, which have roamed the area since prehistoric times. Just one of Dartmoor’s gems is Haytor. Located in the south-east of the Park, here visitors can discover striking granite rocks and sweeping panoramic views. Those visiting North Devon can also take a trip to Exmoor National Park, which boasts miles of cycling and hiking routes to explore.

Those longing for a stripped-back getaway can dream of wild camping in selected parts of Dartmoor, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to wake up to spectacular views in one of the few National Parks that allows it.

Prefer to travel on two wheels? Why not try a day of cycling along the Tarka Trail. This 180-mile, figure-of-eight path through North Devon and Exmoor is the longest traffic-free route in the UK and is peppered with moorland, wooded valleys, cliffs and sandy beaches. Exmoor is also known for its dazzlingly clear night skies and was designated Europe’s first Dark Sky Reserve.

 

Enchanting heritage

In addition to the region’s sweeping countryside and stretches of coastline, visitors can discover some of Devon’s rich heritage at Buckfast Abbey. Located within Dartmoor National Park, this unique church was founded by King Canute in 1018. Widely known for the production of Buckfast Tonic Wine, it is still home to a community of Benedictine monks today. Marvel at the elaborate stone architecture, wander the picturesque lavender gardens, or even enjoy a stay in the Abbey grounds.  

Then there’s Exeter Cathedral. One of the region’s architectural icons, this 900-year old example of Gothic design combines stone pillars, stained-glass windows and the longest uninterrupted Medieval vaulted ceiling in the world, making it an unmissable sight.

 

Historic towns and villages

Devon’s historic seaside towns and unspoilt fishing villages are another jewel in its crown. These include Clovelly, North Devon, a 14th-century cliff-side village once owned by the Queen of England. South Devon is also laden with cosy coastal settlements, including Dittisham and Hope Cove, an idyllic village nestled alongside the South West Coast Path.

No introduction to Devon would complete without mentioning Torquay. Located on a stretch of coast known as the English Riviera, the town is known for its elegant restaurant-lined harbour brimming with yachts and boats. The birthplace of Agatha Christie, it’s a fascinating spot for fans of the novelist, who can trace her footsteps along the Agatha Christie Literary Trail and visit a wealth of sights connected to the author, including Torquay Museum and the Potent Plants Garden. Families can also enjoy the nearby Babbacombe Model Village, with its immaculate landscaped gardens, explore Torre Abbey, or journey through Victorian England at Bygones, an immersive reconstruction packed with nostalgia.

 

Mouth-watering cuisine

Those with a penchant for seafood will be spoilt for choice in Devon. For fresh oysters and shellfish, plan a trip to the Oyster Shack in Bigbury, South Devon. With a menu that changes with the catch of the day, expect delicacies that range from local rock oysters to lobster, crab and hand-dived scallops.

The perfect complement to seafood is a crisp white wine, so why not complete the foodie tour with a trip to Sharpham Vineyard. Located under 20 miles from Beesands Beach, visitors can enjoy wine and cheese tasting sessions, a vineyard tour and, during spring and summer, an alfresco meal at The Cellar Door.

 

How to get here

  • Exeter station is easily accessible from London, with direct trains taking approximately two and a half hours from Paddington station.
  • Exeter is just under 200 miles west of London. It is accessible via the M4 and M5 via Bristol, with an average journey time of between three and four hours. Drivers can also take the M3 and A303, or the A35 and M3 via Southampton and Bournemouth.

 

Visitors are encouraged to always check individual attraction websites for the latest information, as events and details are subject to change.

For more information contact:

VisitBritain Media Team

pressandpr@visitbritain.org

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