Devon is a popular tourist destination in the southwest of England that has something for everyone. With its stunning coastline, rolling hills, rugged moors, and picturesque villages, Devon is an ideal place to visit this summer. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are some of our top recommendations for things to do in Devon this summer.

Explore the Beaches

Devon is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, and a trip to this county wouldn’t be complete without a visit to at least one of them. From sandy stretches perfect for sunbathing to rocky coves that are perfect for rockpooling, there’s a beach for everyone in Devon. Some of the most popular beaches include:

  • Woolacombe Beach – a three-mile-long beach that is ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
  • Blackpool Sands – a Blue Flag-awarded beach that is surrounded by rolling hills and crystal-clear water.
  • Bantham Beach – a popular beach for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, with stunning views of Burgh Island and Bigbury Bay.
  • Salcombe North Sands – a family-friendly beach with shallow waters, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.

Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, beach towel, and swimsuit when heading to the beach. And be aware that some of the beaches have car parks that fill up quickly in peak season, so it’s a good idea to arrive early or consider using public transport.

Experience the Great Outdoors

Devon is a paradise for those who love the great outdoors. With its rolling hills, rugged moors, and breathtaking coastline, there’s no shortage of stunning scenery to explore. Some popular outdoor activities include:

  • Hiking – Devon has a network of stunning walking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. The South West Coast Path is one of the most popular routes, offering spectacular views of the coastline.
  • Cycling – Devon has a range of cycling routes for all abilities, from family-friendly cycle paths to off-road mountain bike trails. The Tarka Trail is a popular multi-use trail that stretches for 180 miles through the heart of Devon.
  • Kayaking – Devon’s coastline is dotted with hidden coves and secluded beaches that can only be accessed by kayak. Companies like Sea Kayak Devon offer guided tours led by experienced instructors.
  • Horse Riding – Devon’s rolling hills and picturesque villages are ideal for horse riding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are plenty of riding schools and stables that offer guided horse riding tours.

Remember to pack appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities, and always check weather conditions and tide times before setting off.

Visit Historic Sites and Museums

Devon has a rich history dating back thousands of years, and there are plenty of historic sites and museums to explore. Some popular attractions include:

  • Exeter Cathedral – one of the most impressive cathedrals in England, with stunning Gothic architecture and a rich history dating back over 900 years.
  • Buckfast Abbey – a working monastery that is open to visitors, with stunning gardens, historical exhibits, and a range of shops and restaurants.
  • Castle Drogo – a stunning castle built in the early 1900s, with breathtaking views of Dartmoor National Park.
  • The Royal Albert Memorial Museum – a fascinating museum that showcases Devon’s rich history, with interactive exhibits and displays that cover everything from prehistoric times to the present day.

Many historic sites and museums have entry fees and may require booking in advance. Check opening times and admission prices before visiting.

Enjoy Local Food and Drink

Devon is famous for its delicious food and drink, with a range of local producers offering everything from traditional cream teas to artisanal gin. Some popular food and drink experiences include:

  • Cream teas – Devon is famous for its cream teas, which consist of scones served with clotted cream and jam, and a pot of tea. Many tea rooms and cafes across Devon serve cream teas, but some of the best can be found in villages like Cockington and Clovelly.
  • Cider – Devon has a long history of cider making, and there are plenty of local cider producers to visit. Many offer tours and tastings, including Sandford Orchards and Hunts Cider.
  • Seafood – Devon’s coastline offers a bounty of fresh seafood, including crab, lobster, and scallops. Many coastal towns and villages have restaurants and pubs that specialize in seafood, including The Crab Shack in Teignmouth and The Oyster Shack in Bigbury.
  • Gin – Devon has a growing reputation for producing high-quality artisanal gin. Many gin distilleries offer tours and tastings, including Salcombe Gin and Exeter Gin.

Many food and drink experiences require booking in advance, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and make reservations where necessary.

In Conclusion

Devon is a stunning county with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, visit historic sites and museums, relax on the beach, or indulge in delicious food and drink, Devon has it all. So why not plan a visit this summer and experience everything that this beautiful part of England has to offer?