The Best Places to Visit in Devon
Devon, with its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and wide, open moorland, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK. Whether you’re craving bustling harbour towns, quiet villages, or simply want to experience the fresh sea air, you won’t have to travel far to find it.
We’ve explored Devon in all seasons – walking its coastal paths, heading out onto the moors, and discovering the small, independent spots that give the county its character. What keeps us coming back is the variety. You can spend the morning climbing to a windswept viewpoint and the afternoon with your feet in the water.
In this guide, we’re sharing some of our favourite places to visit in Devon to help you plan your next trip – whether that’s an active few days outdoors or a slower escape close to nature.
Table of Contents
Why is Devon famous?
The Best Ways to Explore Devon: Rail and Road Adventures
When is the best time to visit Devon?
Seasonal Adventure Guide
Where are the best places to visit in Devon for wild adventures?
Comparison of Devon’s Adventure Hubs
Why is Dartmoor National Park a must-see in Devon?
Which are the most beautiful places in Devon for coastal views?
Where are the prettiest places in Devon for a quiet escape?
What are the hidden gem attractions in Devon you shouldn’t miss?
Our Favourite Hidden Gem Attractions
Ready to Plan Your Own Devon Adventure?
FAQs
Why is Devon famous?
Ever wondered why Devon holds such a special place in the heart of the British outdoors? It’s famous primarily for its incredible diversity – this is the only county in England to boast two separate coastlines and two National Parks, Dartmoor and Exmoor. From the rugged Atlantic breakers of the north to the gentle, turquoise coves of the south, it offers a dramatic shift in scenery within just a few hours’ drive.
Beyond the landscapes, Devon is world-renowned for its heritage and its slow way of life. It’s the home of the cream tea (cream first, always!), the birthplace of legendary explorers like Sir Francis Drake, and a pioneer in the UK’s sustainable food movement.
Whether it’s the wild ponies of Dartmoor or the technical surfing breaks of Croyde, Devon is famous for its varied natural beauty, and provides a space where you can escape the noise of modern life.
The Best Ways to Explore Devon: Rail and Road Adventures
If you’re dreaming of a coastal drive that connects you to the true soul of the South West, we believe one of the absolute best ways to experience it is via the South West 660.
We are incredibly proud to be the Trusted Tour Operator Partner of the team behind this iconic route. We’ve crafted three iconic itineraries – covering everything from the Dorset & East Devon borders to the wild North Devon coast and Exmoor. Choose your favourite or share your wish list with our Adventure Consultants and we’ll create your very own tailor-made South West 660 experience. Either way, we’ll handle the route planning, accommodation, and the best local dining spots.
Our Itineraries:
- SW660 Road Trip: Devon, Dartmouth & Cornwall: This 8-day journey is an unforgettable way to experience the South Coast’s beauty. You will begin by travelling from Exeter all the way to the historic cobbles of Clovelly. You’ll drive through idyllic coastal villages and multiple Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. And of course we build in plenty of time to indulge in the region’s famous foodie delights. Whether you want to relax on Blue Flag beaches or opt for action-packed activities, this route lets you set the pace.
- SW660 Road Trip: Devon & Dorset: Perfect for a shorter break. This 5-day trip takes you from Poole to Exeter along some of the UK’s most scenic roads. You’ll hug the dramatic Dorset coast before heading into the heart of Devon. It’s a fantastic mix of seaside views and adrenaline-fuelled activities, all set against a truly incredible backdrop.
- SW660 Road Trip: North Cornwall, North Devon & Exmoor: For those who crave the raw energy of the Atlantic. This 4-day south coast adventure is hard to beat. You’ll explore the northern reaches of Devon and Cornwall, journeying through the high heather moors of Exmoor National Park. We provide the expert recommendations so you can choose the highlights that matter to you, from secret Somerset viewpoints to the finest coastal panoramas England has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Devon?
Deciding when to head to Devon depends entirely on what kind of adventure you’re after. While the summer months bring the most sunshine, they also bring the crowds. For those of us who prefer the trails to ourselves, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn often provide the most rewarding experiences.
To help you plan, we’ve put together a quick guide on what to expect throughout the year. Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather in Devon – only the wrong gear!
Seasonal Adventure Guide
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best Activity |
| Spring | 8°C – 15°C | Some showers & bright sunshine | Hiking & bluebell spotting in the valleys |
| Summer | 16°C – 22°C | Warmest days & coastal breezes | Wild swimming, kayaking & surfing |
| Autumn | 10°C – 16°C | Refreshing winds & morning mists | Trail running through golden moorlands |
| Winter | 3°C – 9°C | Crisp, cold & moody | Storm watching & fireside pub walks |
Where are the best places to visit in Devon for wild adventures?
The best places to go in Devon for those who love to move are undoubtedly the two National Parks and the South West Coast Path. For a truly raw experience, Dartmoor National Park offers a sense of isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere in southern England.
If you’re looking for nice places to visit in Devon that offer a bit of a challenge, head to Wistman’s Wood. It’s an ancient oak woodland that looks like something straight out of a folklore tale. The moss-covered boulders and twisted branches make for an epic atmosphere, especially when the moorland mist rolls in.
We believe that real adventure happens when you step off the paved path. Whether you are mountain biking through the Haldon Forest or trail running the technical paths around Hartland Quay, the terrain here demands respect and offers immense rewards.
Comparison of Devon’s Adventure Hubs
| Region | Primary Activity | Landscape Style | Best For |
| Dartmoor | Hiking & Bouldering | Rugged Granite Tors | Solitude seekers |
| North Devon | Surfing & Trail Running | Dramatic Atlantic Cliffs | Adrenaline junkies |
| South Hams | Kayaking & Sailing | Sheltered Estuaries | Water enthusiasts |
| Exmoor | Wildlife Spotting | High Cliffs & Combes | Nature lovers |
Why is Dartmoor National Park a Must-See in Devon?
Dartmoor is often described as the greatest wilderness of Southern England. It is one of Devon’s top attractions not only for its rugged beauty, but also because of its expansive history, with archaeological remains dating back to prehistoric times.
When thinking of what to see in Devon, the granite tors of Dartmoor should be at the top of your list. These ancient rock formations, like Haytor or Great Mis Tor, provide natural climbing frames and incredible vantage points. From the summit, you can see for miles across the rolling hills of the South West.
The moor is also home to the famous Dartmoor Ponies, which have lived here for centuries. Watching them roam freely across the heather is a truly incredible experience that connects you back to the natural world.
Our road trips through the South Coast often skirt these dramatic moorlands, giving you the perfect opportunity to hop out and explore.
Which are the most beautiful places in Devon for coastal views?
When people talk about the most beautiful places in Devon, the conversation usually starts and ends with the coast. With two distinct shorelines, you’re spoilt for choice! The North Devon coast is rugged and dramatic, defined by the Atlantic swell, while the South Coast offers turquoise waters and hidden coves.
One of the prettiest places in Devon for coastal scenery is the Valley of Rocks near Lynton. The towering U-shaped valley runs parallel to the sea, offering breathtaking views that make you feel very small indeed. It’s a place of interest in Devon that perfectly captures the wild side of the county.
Top Coastal Vistas
- Hartland Quay: Rugged, jagged rock formations that tell a story of millions of years of tectonic shifts.
- Start Point Lighthouse: A dramatic finger of land poking out into the English Channel.
- Croyde Bay: Not just for surfers; the walk around Baggy Point offers some of the best places in Devon to watch the sunset.
Where are the prettiest places in Devon for a quiet escape?
Sometimes the best places in Devon aren’t the ones on the front of every postcard. They’re the quiet corners where you can hear the birdsong and the rustle of the wind. Clovelly, a privately-owned village on the north coast, is often cited as one of the beautiful places in Devon, and for good reason – its old world charm feels like stepping back in time!
If you want to find where to visit in Devon for true peace, look toward the South Hams’ lost villages like Hallsands or the quiet reaches of the River Yealm. These are the nice places to visit in Devon that adopt a very slow pace of life, allowing you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with yourself.
Trust us, once you find a quiet spot by the water here, you won’t want to leave!
Hidden Gems for a Quiet Escape
- Wistman’s Wood: An ancient oak woodland on Dartmoor that feels like a prehistoric rainforest, offering one of the best days out in Devon
- Hallsands: The haunting ruins of a village reclaimed by the sea in 1917, perfect for a reflective walk
- The Otter Valley: A beautiful destination ideal for spotting beavers and enjoying a slow-paced hike
- Lydford Gorge: Home to the 30m high White Lady Waterfall and deep, mossy woodlands
What are the hidden gem attractions in Devon you shouldn’t miss?
Ever wondered why some of the best memories aren’t made at the big-ticket attractions in Devon? In our experience, the real heart of Devon is usually found in the silent, mossy ruins, the tiny art studios tucked into side streets, and the wild swimming spots known only to the locals.
If you’re willing to go a little further afield, you’ll find places of interest in Devon that feel like your own private discovery. From the underground passages of Exeter to the cliff-side gardens of the north coast, these spots offer a layer of history and character that is purely authentic.
Here are a few of our favourite under-the-radar Devon attractions that we always recommend:
Our Favourite Hidden Gem Attractions in Devon
- Exeter’s Underground Passages: Explore the medieval vaulted tunnels that used to bring fresh water into the city – it’s a fascinating (if somewhat slightly claustrophobic) step back in time
- The Gnome Reserve & Wildflower Garden: It sounds quirky (and it is!), but it’s a lovely, eccentric slice of North Devon life that’s surprisingly charming
- Buckfast Abbey: A working monastery with stunning gardens and a remarkably peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a reflective afternoon
- Burgh Island: While famous, visiting at low tide to walk the sandbars or high tide to ride the unique sea tractor is a truly one-off experience
- Barometer World: A unique museum in Okehampton dedicated to everything atmospheric, a great place to go in Devon for the weather-obsessed hiker!
Ready to Plan Your Own Devon Adventure?
We’d love to help you craft an escape to Devon that feels both effortless and rewarding. As a Trusted Tour Operator Partner of the South West 660, we specialise in creating personalised journeys that explore this incredible region. Whether you’re seeking a slow-paced trip, one packed full of adventure, or something with a little bit of both, start your journey today by reaching out to our team.
Let’s chat about how we can design a bespoke adventure that connects you deeply with the very best of Devon!
FAQs
Where is the best place to visit in Devon for hikers?
We recommend Dartmoor National Park for its rugged terrain or the South West Coast Path for unparalleled sea views. Both offer trails for all abilities.
When is the best time to visit Devon?
The best time to visit Devon depends on what you want to experience. For those who prefer quiet trails and vibrant scenery, the shoulder seasons of May-June (for wildflowers) and September-October (for golden moorlands) offer a more peaceful, authentic experience with manageable weather. While many people are drawn to the area in July and August, especially for sunshine and wild swimming, they can be very busy.O
What are some fun things to do in Devon for adults?
Beyond the beaches, try coasteering in Torbay, mountain biking in Haldon Forest, or exploring the many independent craft breweries and distilleries.
How can I travel responsibly in Devon?
A great way to travel through Devon is to use the rail network where possible (the Tarka Line is stunning!) and support local independent businesses. For those who want to explore by road, choosing the Trusted Tour Operator Partner of the South West 660 ensures your journey is built on the principles of slow travel and genuine support for rural communities. We recommend booking your road trip outside of the peak months of July and August to help reduce the pressure on local infrastructure.
What are Devon's top attractions for nature lovers?
There are so many fantastic Devon attractions for those who love nature. Just a couple of examples are Exmoor National Park, which is essential for spotting red deer and wild ponies, while the River Otter is famous for its successful beaver reintroduction project.
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