Devon Travel Guide
A comprehensive tour guide for Devon, including culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, how to get there and other options.
- Introduction to Devon
- List of Places to Visit in Devon
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Devon
- Best Things to Do in Devon: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Devon
- Food and Drink Scene of Devon
- Where to Stay in Devon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Devon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Devon
- Best Time to Visit Devon
- Do’s and Don’ts of Devon
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Devon: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Devon
- Where to Go Next from Devon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Devon
Devon, an exquisite county located in West Country, England, is home to some of the prettiest and most unspoiled landscapes of the United Kingdom. From the golden beaches of its coasts to the moors and quaint villages in the countryside, Devon is the perfect destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone who wishes to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.
List of Places to Visit in Devon
Devon’s diverse landscape is peppered with an array of attractions that will delight visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, outdoor adventures, or a night out on the town, Devon has everything.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Plymouth Hoe
- Exeter Cathedral
- Eden Project
- Dartmouth Castle
- Kents Cavern
Natural Attractions of Devon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Dartmoor National Park
- Woolacombe beach
- Jurassic Coast
- Tarka Trail
- The River Exe
Hiking/Biking Routes of Devon
Devon’s coasts and countryside offer an excellent opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or occasional cyclist, there are plenty of trails to discover.
- Two Moors Way
- Tarka Trail
- Dartmoor Way
- Exe Estuary Trail
- Plym Valley Trail
Best Things to Do in Devon: Activities and Tours
- Surfing at Bantham Beach
- Horse-riding on Dartmoor
- Exploring underground caves and caverns
- Visiting the V&A Museum of Childhood in Bideford
- Spotting dolphins in Torbay
Week-Long Itinerary for Devon
Here’s a suggested itinerary that will help you make the most of your week in Devon.
| Day 1 | Dartmoor National Park |
|---|---|
| Day 2 | Plymouth |
| Day 3 | Torbay |
| Day 4 | Exeter |
| Day 5 | North Devon Coast and Countryside |
| Day 6 | South Devon Coast and Countryside |
| Day 7 | Bideford, Barnstaple, and Ilfracombe (Tarka Trail) |
Food and Drink Scene of Devon
Devon is famous for its delicious local produce, seafood, cream teas, ciders, and beers. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Devon cream tea
- Brixham fish pie
- Dartmoor beef
- Plymouth gin
- Tarka beer
Local Beverages
- Cider
- Mead
- Ale
- Whiskey
- Fruit Wines
Where to Stay in Devon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Devon offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- Bovey Castle Hotel
- The Great Western Hotel
- Exeter Court Hotel
- The Old Forge
- Ye Olde Globe Inn
What to Buy in Devon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Devon is famous for its handmade pottery, local cider, and delicious cream teas. Here are some of the souvenirs and local products that you should consider buying:
- Dartington Crystal
- Devon fudge
- Ottervale chutneys and preserves
- Salcombe Gin
- Riverford Organic Farm produce
Local Culture and Customs of Devon
Devon’s traditional culture is largely based around farming, fishing, and maritime industries. Some of the customs and traditions include cheese rolling, morris dancing, and wassailing.
Best Time to Visit Devon
Devon is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are at their best. Autumn is also a beautiful season in Devon, with changing foliage adding a unique charm to the countryside.
Do’s and Don’ts of Devon
Do:
- Try the local seafood
- Visit the local markets
- Take advantage of the many outdoor activities
- Explore the countryside
- Take a cream tea break
Don’t:
- Litter the beaches and countryside
- Forget to pack your rain gear
- Assume all of Devon is wide open space
- Leave valuables in your parked car
- Drive or walk on the Moors when the weather is bad
Safety and Health
Safety in Devon
Devon is a relatively safe place to visit, but it is always advisable to take the necessary precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Keep your valuables safe
- Don’t walk alone in remote areas after dark
Health in Devon
There are no specific health risks associated with Devon. However, it is recommended that you pack a basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Getting to Devon: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Devon
- Exeter Airport (EXT)
- Bristol Airport (BRS)
- Newquay Airport (NQY)
Bus Stations Near Devon
- Plymouth Coach Station
- Exeter Bus Station
- Newton Abbot Bus Station
Other Options
- Train
- Ferry
- Car
How to Get Around in Devon
To get around Devon, you can hire a car, take the bus, or use the extensive railway network. Cycling and hiking are also popular ways to explore the beautiful countryside.
Where to Go Next from Devon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Cornwall
- The Jurassic Coast
- The Cotswolds
- Bristol
- Bath
Conclusion
Devon is a truly magical place, offering something for everyone. From breathtaking landscapes to bustling towns and cities, Devon is a must-visit destination that should not be missed. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Devon is sure to delight and captivate you with its rich culture, natural beauty, and welcoming locals.
