Top 10 Great & Alternative Things to do in Devon

Posted on by

Great and Alternative Ideas – Top 10 Things to do in Devon

There are many great things to do in Devon when you visit this wonderful county in the South West of England. It encompasses many sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages, fossil cliffs, medieval towns and moorland National Parks.

The English Riviera on the South Coast is made up of a series of picturesque, harbour towns including Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the latter of which is famed for its fishing.

Check out these 10 alternative ideas to enjoy across the county Devon.

  1. Crabbing at Salcombe– Crabbing is a fantastic pastime popular with all the family. Victoria Quay and around towards the lifeboat station is a favourite crabbing spot in Salcombe. Once you’ve picked up your crabbing kit – crabbing line, net, bucket filled with sea water, you’ll need to select your ultimate bait. Crabs have a super sense of smell, so the smellier the bait the better! Firm favourites are raw liver, bacon, sardines, squid and fish heads.
  2. Walk out to Burgh Island – This iconic South Devon landmark is located directly opposite Bigbury on Sea beach. At low tide you can walk across the strip of sand which at high tide is completely covered, so a ride on the unique sea tractor is required. The Island is home to the infamous art-deco inspired Burgh Island Hotel which is featured in two of Agatha Christie’s most well-known novels. You can also explore the remains of a chapel or if you fancy a bite to eat visit the Pilchard Inn on the shoreline.
  3. Cycle the Tarka Trail, North Devon – An 180 mile, figure of eight walking and cycling trail follows the route travelled by Tarka the Otter in the famous novel by Henry Williamson. From this route you can enjoy unspoiled countryside, ancient villages, wooded valleys, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches. The 30-mile section of the Tarka Trail between Braunton and Meeth runs along the line of an old railway and is flat and traffic-free. This makes it ideal for families and less experienced cyclists.
  4. Explore Dartmoor’s Trails and Pubs – This huge moorland scattered with staggering granite tors in the south-east of Devon is a hiker’s paradise. Within the heart of the Dartmoor National Park is the picturesque village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor which is great spot to stop off for a snack. Try The Rugglestone Inn where there are log fires, home cooked food and fine cask ales.
  5. Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway – Great for all the family, this is the highest and the steepest totally water powered railway in the world! This historic funicular Cliff Railway connects the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth providing stunning coastal views. At the top is The Cliff Top Café where you can enjoy a traditional Devon Cream Tea with a wonderful view!
  6. Walk the stunning South West Coast Path to Hope Cove – One of the best ways to enjoy the superb coastline. Start at the village of Thurlestone and amble along past the Thurlestone Rock with its arch, water meadows and sand dunes. Walking the South West Coast Path can work up a bit of an appetite so end your walk with a trip at the Lobster Pod Bistro. Here you can sit in a pod and enjoy the views of the harbour and beach whatever the weather.
  7. Agatha Christie at Dartmouth – Situated on the banks of the picturesque River Dart, the town of Dartmouth is great for a day trip. Have a mooch around the array of shops, galleries, museums and enjoy the selection of local produce from seafood to ice-cream and fudge. A visit to Agatha Christie’s holiday home at Greenway is a must – both the house and gardens are a real treat for visitors. If you arrive by boat you experience the beauty of the River Dart which Agatha loved so much.
  8. Surfing at Croyde – Croyde beach is set in a wide sandy bay and is one of the prettiest spots along the coast, it also has the best surf. Here you can have surf lessons as well as coasteering experiences or just sit back and relax watching everyone else! Whatever you choose to do end your day at Squires, an award winning Fish and Chip restaurant in Braunton.
  9. Day out in Exeter – This cathedral city on the River Exe is one of the foodie capitals of the South West, Exeter is small vibrant city in the heart of Devon. Surrounded by miles of countryside here you can enjoy a great mix of independent shops and boutiques, cafes and bars. During the festive season there is a Christmas Market on Cathedral Green which is not to be missed.
  10. Family Fun at The Big Sheep –This award winning amusement farm park near Bideford in North Devon is guaranteed to keep all the family entertained whatever the weather. Your day will be jam packed with sheep racing, feeding the animals, daily live shows, tractor safari, indoor play and events throughout the year. Adults are well catered for too at The Big Sheep with combat games, micro craft ale brewery and gin distillery.

Devon is one the most popular counties for holiday makers and overseas visitors and it is easy to see why. Come down and visit this beautiful countryside and enjoy the delights and little secrets it offers for yourself.

Author – Waterside Breaks, Holiday Cottages & Lodges by Water across the UK