Devon, once known as Devonshire, has plenty of attractions, a thriving harbour industry and spectacular, unspoilt, natural sites. Several places have also been designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Well known for its rugged moorlands, pretty villages and quaint chocolate box cottages, Devon is a must-see holiday destination, and we've got plenty of holiday cottages in Devon to make your stay a memorable one.
Situated in the South West of England, close to other popular tourist destinations such as Cornwall, Devon has long been a favourite holiday spot and with such a huge choice of places to visit it is little wonder, particularly North Devon.
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Whatever your reason for visiting Dartmoor National Park, you will find a warm welcome at Wooder Manor where five fantastic holiday properties sleep between one and six people and are as popular with couples as they are with families. The cottages are along a private driveway that leads off a quiet country lane just a flat, half-mile walk from the village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Here you will find two excellent pubs (The Old Inn and the Rugglestone Inn) and two great cafes, one of which, the Cafe on the Green, has been in business for over 90 years. All of Dartmoor's best attractions are virtually on the doorstep whether you want to walk, horse ride, climb, mountain bike, or just make your way from pretty village to lovely town, tucking into fresh local produce at the wealth of cafes and pubs in the area. Wooder Manor's central location in the heart of Dartmoor National Park means you are never far from a fun-filled day out at places like Pennywell Farm, Buckfast Butterfly Farm, Hald
Stylish and modern throughout, this single level holiday home is a golfers, walkers and beach lovers dream. Saunton's 36 hole course and superb sandy beaches are close by, and there is a good choice of shops and restaurants, as well as the Tarka Trail within walking distance. Perfect for relaxing or visiting the many attractions and beaches of North Devon.
Families, groups and couples love the warmth and welcome they get as soon as they step through the door of Annacombe. Converted from a former coach house, this welcoming holiday cottage, with EV charger and heat pump, sits quietly up private drives away from noise and light pollution. There is room for up to six guests in three bedrooms, including one double room with ensuite on the ground floor. The popular Church House Inn in Harberton is only a ten-minute walk from the cottage, while Totnes and Dartmoor National Park are both an easy drive or cycle away. Paignton, Torquay, Buckfastleigh are all less than a half hour drive, while Plymouth is not much further. Whether you want to sail, fish, shop, eat, walk, cycle, climb, or just find a new favourite view every day of your holiday, Annacombe is a beautiful place to stay while you discover the many delights of Dartmoor and the South Devon Coast.
When you stay at 1, Out of the Blue, you do not have to waste any time driving to the beach because it is just outside the front door! The contemporary holiday property has fantastic views of both the beach and Baggy Point, and is in an enviable location next to Croyde Beach, within walking distance of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. There is an excellent variety of activities to try all year round, from learning to surf, to walking along the coastal path, cycling the Tarka Trail, playing golf or shopping in towns like Barnstaple and Ilfracombe. With space for up to eight people, it is an ideal choice for families and friends who love being close to the beach.
“We loved being here; a peaceful air in the cottage as well as gorgeous surroundings. Idyllic.” Z.B. April 2025 Nuthatch is one our 3“Affordable Holidays” cottages. -please see our website for full details. With 6 acres of grounds and gardens with stunning views and within the Blackdown hills AONB, the surroundings are rich in wildlife & history. Just 20 minutes from the World Heritage “Jurassic” coast and 3 miles from Axminster, our tranquil cottages lie hidden away in a network of narrow Devon lanes and footpaths. Equipped with all you need to enjoy your break in a tranquil setting. Our customers appreciate our really competitive prices . In return we ask that guests bring their own towels and bedlinen. They pay, at cost, for the fuel used during their stay. Please see our website for fuller details.
With its peaceful location by the 'triangle' in the heart of the picturesque village of Tawstock, quiet garden and ample room to sleep six to eight people in three bedrooms, Triangle Cottage is a much loved holiday retreat for families, friends or couples. Barnstaple is around a mile and a half away, while the Tarka Trail is only a mile, giving you plenty of attractions, easy access to fantastic beaches, lovely walks and all the right ingredients to simply relax and unwind in this beautiful corner of North Devon.
**SUMMER HOLIDAY DATES AVAILABLE** Cider House is a Grade II Listed barn conversion set on a 6 acre private estate in its own secluded valley with no passing traffic, yet within easy reach of the local beach at Combe Martin. Combe Martin and the many attractions of Exmoor National Park are a stones throw away, as is the South West Coast Path and the beautiful, sandy beaches of the North Devon coast. This child and dog-friendly cottage sleeps up to four guests in two en-suite bedrooms, one of which opens directly onto the south-facing terrace. There are stunning views from every window out over the landscaped gardens to the valley beyond. The fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down - lack of light pollution means the night skies here are pretty awesome! Cider House is perfect for a get away from it all holiday for couples and small families.
Located in a desirable unspoilt area of Devon with exceptional views, this spacious holiday home provides a perfect self-catering base for relaxing amongst beautiful countryside or exploring Devon and its many delights. Cadeleigh village is a short walk away from Oakwood Farm with a good pub; Tiverton and Exeter are within easy reach and there are lovely walks and bike rides on the doorstep as well as fantastic free on-site fishing lake.
Accommodating large groups of up to 40 guests, Bickleigh Castle is a great choice if you are looking for a more intimate wedding, conference or staycation with your family and friends. Comprising of 11th Century Norman Castle, Saxon Chapel and cottages this fabulous venue stands in extensive grounds with the River Exe running through, nestling in the Exe Valley within a leafy unspoilt part of Mid-Devon's glorious rolling hills.
Cool in summer, snug in winter, you'll have all the comfort, peace and privacy that you, your family and your friends could want at Higher Blackabroom. This detached period property is 6 miles from Okehampton and 8 miles to Tavistock and Bridestowe (1.5 miles) boasts a well stocked shop. It is on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park (walking, geo-caching, wildlife, birdwatching) a great Ten Tors base and within walking distance of a welcoming pub. It sleeps seven people in three bedrooms and has incredible views over the surrounding fields and countryside. There is a large lawn, private parking and a lovely sheltered seating area with great views over the valley. Lydford Gorge (Whitelady Waterfall) is two miles away, and a vast network of footpaths and cycling routes to help visitors explore. You can reach the beaches of the North Devon coast, as well as The Eden Project and RHS Rosemoor, in under an hour.
Swallow cottage is homely and welcoming, in a quiet position and wonderful for all ages and well behaved pets. A few yards from the cottage is a beautiful National Trust Combe, leading a mile down to a lovely natural beach which is dog friendly, as is The Donkey Sanctuary, which children love, and is free to enter. The Sanctuary is just a few minutes walk away and has a good cafe overlooking the donkeys and combe to the sea, as well as eight miles of walkways. Sidmouth has lovely shops, and Branscombe, Beer and Lyme Regis are all within easy reach. The local Coast Path walking is spectacular.
Sitting in an elevated hillside position surrounded by rolling Devonshire countryside, this former Victorian farmhouse provides welcoming self-catering accommodation for six guests in three bedrooms. Rose offers tranquility in bucket loads with no passing traffic to interrupt. A good base for exploring Devon's many attractions including the Blackdown Hills, coast and even Exmoor. On-site fishing solely for the use of guests.
High on a hill, surrounded by fields with no neighbours or passing traffic, Honeysuckle provides a romantic rural holiday retreat ideal for relaxing or exploring the many attractions that Devon has to offer. An adjacent fishing pond is available for guests' use. Recently refurbished with a wood burner, new kitchen, and utility room. One bedroom with king size bed, plus a sofa bed in the lounge. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
The Aspect is a one-bedroom seafront holiday apartment in Sidmouth, sleeping two guests and set within the grand Regency building of Wyndham Court on the town’s Esplanade. This second-floor self-catering apartment enjoys uninterrupted panoramic sea views across Sidmouth Beach, with shops, cafés and pubs all within a short walk. Designed for couples, The Aspect offers a peaceful coastal retreat with a king-size bed, well-equipped kitchen and front-row views of the Jurassic Coast. A superb choice for a romantic break beside the sea in East Devon.
Large luxury 4 Star Gold Award North Devon cottage with huge indoor pool and hot tub. Bicclescombe Grange lies on the outskirts of the lovely seaside town of Ilfracombe within a private setting in large gardens. It's a very substantial Victorian residence, sleeping 26, with fantastic facilities including a 40' indoor heated swimming pool, hot tub, full sized snooker and table tennis. Perfect for a large family gathering, hen do, stag do or any other special occasion.
In an enviable position nicely sandwiched between Dawlish and Starcross in South Devon, this charming holiday cottage is just a two minute drive from the beautiful sandy beach. Sleeps two to six persons, prices for 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6 persons.
Crowborough Farm is a big holiday farmhouse in Georgeham, providing self-catering accommodation for up to 14 guests on a 50-acre organic farm close to North Devon's finest beaches. With seven bedrooms, generous living spaces and room for everyone to spread out, it's an excellent choice for family holidays, reunions and celebrations. Guests can wander through flower meadows, discover a hidden woodland quarry and enjoy far-reaching views towards Lundy Island, all while being within an easy half-mile walk of The Kings Arms, The Rock Inn and the village shop. The farm is also licensed for weddings and events only when Farmhouse is not booked, with seasonal wild camping available at the top of the farm.
There's space for all your family and friends in Marine Court. This fantastic holiday home in Ilfracombe sleeps up to 20 people in eight ensuite bedrooms, including 2 family suites with interconnecting rooms. There's a kitchen designed for group catering, a large living and dining room with your own personal bar, and a games room with pool table. You're only a short walk from beaches, shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as Ilfracombe harbour and the South West Coast Path. Local attractions include the Milky Way Adventure Park, RHS Gardens Rosemoor and Exmoor National Park. Marine Court is ideal for celebrating a milestone occasion, hosting a family reunion, or holidaying with friends.
An idyllic retreat for large groups of up to ten in a tranquil country setting just four and a half miles from Tavistock and within easy reach of Devon's many attractions including Dartmoor National Park. Ideal for a holiday with friends or family with an outdoor heated pool (May - Oct), and a big garden. Heaps of charm, lots of space and modern conveniences.
Gather your favourite people at Fletchers Combe Farm—your own private Devon estate. Exclusive hire of the Grade II-listed farmhouse and L-shaped barn: 11 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, two kitchens and multiple lounges (both with wood-burners). The Barn Tallet dining room seats 16, with space for an extra table up to 22 for celebratory feasts. Outside, sink into hot tubs, spark the Weber BBQs and firepits, let kids roam play areas, and paddle in the wild-swim/boating pond. Marquee-ready lawns, private catering & DJs welcome, no close neighbours, and walks across our 100-acre cattle farm with streams and copses. Quiet valley base—5 mins to main routes, 12 mins to the A38 for Dartmoor and beaches.
Popular towns in and around Devon:
AppledoreAxminsterAxmouthAylesbeareBabbacombeBamptonBarnstapleBeaworthyBeerBere AlstonBickingtonBidefordBlackdown HillsBradworthyBranscombeBratton FlemingBrauntonBrendonBridfordBrixhamBroadclystBroadwoodwidgerBuckfastleighBudeCadburyChagfordChallacombeChudleighChulmleighChumleighClayhidonClyst St LawrenceColytonCombe MartinCombe RaleighCreditonCroydeCullomptonDalwoodDartmoorDartmouthDawlishDevonDittishamDrewsteigntonDulvertonDunsterExeterExmoor National ParkExmouthGreat TorringtonHartlandHolsworthyHonitonHope CoveIlfracombeKingsbridgeLiftonLydfordLynmouthLyntonMaidencombeMemburyMineheadMoretonhampsteadMortehoeNewton AbbotNewton AbbottNoss MayoOakhamptonOkehamptonOkehampton HamletsPaigntonParkhamPlymouthPonsworthyPorlockPrincetownSalcombeSauntonSeatonShaldonSidmouthSimonsbathSlaptonSouth HamsSouth MoltonTavistockTeignmouthThrowleighThurlestoneTivertonTopshamTorbayTorcrossTorquayTotnesUmberleighUpotteryWelcombeWestward HoWidecombe in the MoorWinkleighWoolacombeWoolacombe BayYealmptonSome local suggestions:
Dog friendly Devon cottagesLuxury Devon holiday cottagesDevon cottages with a hot tubDevon cottages by the seaOr search further afield:
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Many of Devon’s fascinating towns and villages are rich in history and archaeological sites. Their narrow, cobbled streets are home to unique boutiques, craft shops and art galleries, providing visitors with plenty of shopping to do.
Exeter is at the very centre of Devon and its magnificent cathedral attracts tourists from afar. As do the beautiful rolling Blackdown Hills and the famous Jurassic Coast, which has been named a World Heritage Site.
The diverse north Devon coast makes an ideal place for tourists that like their outdoor activities, including water sports. There are miles of coastal paths to explore making Devon a perfect holiday destination for walkers and dog owners.
From the pebble beaches of East Devon to the golden sands of Ilfracombe and Croyde on the north coast, and the much loved English Riviera and South Hams on the south coast, Devon has plenty to offer beach lovers. The vast, blue sea is great for surfing or sailing and Devon is also home to many shipwrecks, so if you enjoy diving, you'll find plenty of sites to explore.
Regardless of where you choose, you're bound to find a delightful cottage that fits the bill. This part of the country is made for UK self-catering holidays, with quaint greengrocers and local takeaways aplenty. For a tranquil retreat with loved ones, pick a Devon cottage with a private hot tub or holiday cottages that boast direct access to the beach with fantastic sea views. Who needs swimming pools when you've got sandy beaches on your doorstep?
Before booking your holiday cottage in Devon, you can find all the information you need for your trip below. For more tips, check out our complete guide to South West England.
Devon is renowned for a number of things, including its impressive coastline, stunning beaches and great weather. Being in the south of England means that you will find better year-round weather in comparison to other tourist spots in the UK. Devon’s warm summers and mild winters are what make it an attractive holiday destination for many.
During summer, Devon’s incredible countryside is heightened as the sun beams down on the greenery and sandy shores. The temperatures average around a comfortable 20°C with plenty of sunshine and blue skies; perfect for a dip in the sea!
The climate in Devon in spring is generally milder with a mix of sunshine and some cooler, wetter days. Spring is a great time to visit as the weather makes the perfect atmosphere for those who want to enjoy the multiple hikes around Devon, with comfortable temperatures of around 16°C.
Winter in Devon brings shorter days and much cooler temperatures of around 8 or 9°C. However, don’t let this deter you from visiting during this time, as the chance of snowfall is higher which creates a beautiful white dusting over the rolling hills and countryside. If you want to spend your days bundled up exploring the towns or just get cosy by the fire, this is a great time to visit.
There are two national parks in Devon which should be on everyone's list of things to see when they visit. The Dartmoor National Park offers something for everyone. Aside from the magnificent views Dartmoor provides, visitors can also explore the local wildlife; tourists can watch the Dartmoor ponies run wild or see if they recognise any of the scenes from movies such as The War Horse which was filmed in the area. Moreover, Dartmoor National Park has many archaeological sites to visit, so it is a magnificent place for anyone who enjoys exploring or digging up history.
The breathtaking sites of Exmoor National Park have to be seen to be believed. This spectacular park, which spans more than 250 square miles, provides a unique combination of farmlands, rugged moorlands, valleys and so much more. While in Exmoor, why not take time to see the Landacre mediaeval bridge or the beautiful Exmoor ponies? There are plenty of attractions to visit for the whole family, including many that are dog-friendly (and that goes for our Devon cottages too!)
Beyond the National Parks, you don't have to look far in Devon to find picturesque countryside. Along the north coast, the sandy beaches of Woolacombe and Saunton Sands are among the best in the country, so make sure you pack a bucket and spade with your hiking boots. In south Devon, the English Riviera awaits with its seaside towns and fishing ports renowned for their seafood, so make sure you make the most of the local restaurants while you're on the Devon coast.
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to Devon, so you know what to expect when choosing to get to Devon holiday cottages by car.
London: 200 miles
Birmingham: 165 miles
Glasgow: 448 miles
Liverpool: 257 miles
Bristol: 84 miles
Manchester: 244 miles
Leeds: 285 miles
Edinburgh: 451 miles
Newcastle: 374 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to Devon. Its excellent public transport means you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
With two national parks (Dartmoor and Exmoor), fantastic beaches, and the busy cities of Exeter and Plymouth, you'll easily pack your days with fun. The Jurassic Coast is 95 miles of UNESCO World Heritage site, protected for its amazing geological features dating back over 200 million years, and covering both East Devon and Dorset.
If you're coming for the beaches, you certainly won't be disappointed. The English Riviera on the south coast including Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham is every bit as popular as Dartmouth, Salcombe and Kingsbridge in the neighbouring South Hams area. Saunton Sands, Croyde and Woolacombe on the north coast are all popular choices with surfers and families, as are Lynton and Lynmouth, fringed by the magical beauty of Exmoor National Park. For those torn between the two, mid-Devon and the tranquil beauty of the Blackdown Hills are good central places to stay for your Devon holiday.
As Devon offers such a variety in its landscape from rugged coastline to pretty beaches and historical towns, it can be hard to narrow it down to the best place in the county when picking one of our Devon holiday cottages.
If you are looking for history then you will want to visit Appledore, renowned for its ancient maritime shipbuilding. The pretty little town sits on a hill that overlooks the water. Multiple pubs and cafes are perfect for those who want to stop off for a bite to eat whilst exploring the area.
Woolacombe is famous for its beach offering with its 3-mile stretch of sandy shore providing plenty of space for visitors. This seaside town has a plethora of shops, bars and restaurants and is a hot spot for surfers as the tides here are some of the best in the UK.
Dartmoor is a great place to visit if you seek some incredible walking routes around the rugged countryside. The National Park is the largest open area in Southern England, allowing for more than enough space to explore. The heather-clad moors, quaint villages and bustling towns make Dartmoor a great option for those seeking variety. When it comes to holiday cottages, Devon is hard to beat.
Devon is famous for its national parks, incredible coastline, beautiful countryside, quaint villages and vibrant market towns. There is so much happening here that it comes as no surprise as to why so many choose Devon when deciding to holiday in the UK. Its archaeological offering and history are other reasons that numerous tourists are attracted to the area.
Your trip to Devon will be as expensive as you choose it to be. With so many things to do in the county for free, such as exploring the great outdoors or making the most of the multiple beaches, it doesn’t have to cost a lot to visit here.
However, as Devon is a popular tourist destination, the prices of holiday cottages are slightly higher in comparison to some of the other UK holiday places. The higher price tag is justified by the stunning scenery and activities that are on offer.
Pretty towns come in abundance in Devon, which is why it is so hard to narrow it down to just one.
Brixham sits on the coast at Berry Head, overlooking a stunning bay. This pretty little town brims with culture and countryside, alongside colourful houses that sit atop a hill.
Croyde is a stunning place to visit mainly because of its beautiful sandy bay that is full of sand dunes. The town is encompassed by rolling hills and sits in the Cridda Valley, providing lovely surroundings.
There are many more pretty towns in Devon, all of which offer something unique to visitors. You just have to find the right one for you, or, why not book holiday cottages in multiple locations and set out on a road trip between them?
