Devon

DEVON – WHY GO?

Chocolate-box villages, cream teas and a fabulous coastline make Devon a winner. Don’t miss the yacht-filled harbour of Dartmouth, or tiny Burgh Island – a decadent outpost of 1930s living.  Be sure to glimpse the wilds of Exmoor and Dartmoor, where stags and ponies roam.

MUST SEE, MUST DO

The English Riviera
Taste Mediterranean glamour along 22 miles of unspoilt coastline taking in the lively towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Visit Torquay for chic bars and pavement cafes. Head to Brixham for fresh fish and wander through the narrow streets of fishermen’s cottages and caves that once hid smugglers.

Dartmoor
Be enchanted by wild and beautiful Dartmoor’s tors and craggy countryside on a hike or horse ride. Stunning landscape hugs historic towns such as Tavistock and there are plenty of castle ruins, museums and gardens to explore. West of Dartmoor the Tamar Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a haven for rare birds.

North Devon
Discover the open moorland of Exmoor and the Atlantic-bashed beaches such as sandy Woolacombe, surfers’ favourite Croyde and the expansive sands of Saunton. Dramatic cliffs and tiny coves can be found along the Hartland peninsula and be sure to stop for lunch at the pretty harbours of Clovelly, Ilfracombe and Lynmouth.

Exeter
Cathedral town Exeter has a rich history dating back to Roman times and today it’s a fun and thriving city with plenty of fine food from around the world and the awesome Jurassic Coast on its doorstep. Majestic red cliffs and undulating sand dunes span the UNESCO World Heritage coastline, which connects the popular seaside resorts of Regency style Sidmouth and 18^th Century Dawlish.

Totnes
Go back in time and see the original 1000 year old borough of the attractive town of Totnes and its ancient guildhall, mill, Norman castle, Goths mansion and town gates. Head to Totnes Elizabethan House Museum to see an impressive restored Tudor house that was built in 1575 for a local cloth merchant and take time to explore the museum’s exhibits.

MAKE A DATE

March
Have a tipple of local produce at the Porlock Weir Beer Festival.

May
Sample all that Devonshire has to offer at the Devon County Show.

August
Dartmouth Royal Regatta kicks off with boat races, military parades and balls.

October
Dating back to the 12th century, the annual Tavistock Goose Fair draws market traders from all over the country.

October
Taste all that’s good and local at the Dartmouth’s Food Festival.

DEVON ROMANCE
Share an indulgent Devon cream tea in a seaside café.