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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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.
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.
Weathervane Cottage is a single storey self-catering holiday cottage with exposed beams and a wood burning stove. Relax and unwind on the patio overlooking the surrounding peaceful countryside of the Blackdown Hills. Excellent local walking, plenty of attractions to visit in Devon, Dorset and also Somerset, and lovely beaches on the Jurassic Coast close by.
Beautifully presented with exposed beams and wood burning stove, this delightful holiday cottage affords fantastic views over the surrounding Blackdown Hills. There are excellent country walks directly from the front door of Meadow Cottage and the Jurassic Coast is within easy reach. A great self-catering base for exploring the counties of Devon, Dorset and Somerset with a wealth of attractions for day trips out.
Stylish throughout, this well presented self-catering accommodation is a super choice for couples who want to relax and unwind in a peaceful setting amongst the beauty of the Blackdown Hills. Within easy reach of the Jurassic Coast, guests staying at Apple Loft can enjoy wonderful walks and fantastic views on the doorstep.
Exposed beams and a wood burning stove add to the charm of this self-catering holiday cottage – perfect for a romantic retreat. Located in peaceful unspoilt countryside with glorious views of the surrounding Blackdown Hills, Garden Cottage is close to the Jurassic Coast and an abundance of attractions in Devon, Somerset and Dorset.
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.
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
Come and relax and rejuvenate. Five local beaches, 2 village pubs to walk to, Seaton wetlands on your doorstep with off road cycling to Seaton-or take the tram. Lyme Regis 10 min drive. Bryher offers the perfect base to explore the beautiful countryside and beaches of East Devon and West Dorset. Spend your days exploring the Seaton wetlands, Jurassic coastal path, fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast, relaxing by the sea or discovering Devon's many attractions. Comfortable accommodation, enclosed garden and wonderful views of the Axe valley and river to the coast. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Let the stresses and strains of everyday life fade away as you immerse yourself in the laid back Devon life style. With Dartmoor National Park on the doorstep you can enjoy fabulous peaceful walks and plenty of relaxation with a private garden a riot of colour in the warmer months. Spend your days walking and exploring in the very heart of a county rich in stunning landscapes and incredible scenery then relax at the end of the day with a glass of wine watching the sun set.
Escape the stress of normal life in the beautiful Devon countryside. On the edge of Dartmoor National Park with fantastic walks from your doorstep and idyllic villages to explore, at Honeysuckle cottage you can do as much or as little as you like.
The Dairy is less than half a mile from the beach and pub and offers family and dog friendly self-catering in an idyllic position within an AONB in South Devon perfectly sandwiched between Salcombe and Dartmouth. Full of character, this cottage is ideal for groups of up to six and is a popular choice for a multigenerational getaway. One of the bedrooms is on the ground floor (with ensuite) accessible for guests with mobility needs. The Dairy makes an ideal base for a coastal escape exploring beautiful South Devon. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
The Trap House has everything you need for a relaxing coastal break- whether a weekend away, short break or longer. The Trap House is just half a mile from the beach and pub has a spacious living room with log burner and private enclosed garden, making this a popular choice for dog owners. There is a well equipped kitchen, dining room, two bedrooms and three bathrooms. Located on a stunning stretch of coastline between Salcombe and Dartmouth in an AONB in South Devon, it is a perfect base for exploring innumerable beaches, coastpath and countryside. The Trap House is a popular self-catering choice for families and couples looking for a holiday by the sea with all the comforts of home. For families, there is an onsite playground and games room plus lots of beach toys and wellies to borrow for all your adventures! Tourist board rating: 4 Star
The Stables is an ideal base for a coastal getaway, whether for a weekend, short break or longer. Situated in a quiet village half a mile from the beach at pub at Beesands, this barn conversion sleeps up to four guests in two bedrooms, dogs welcome too. We have an onsite playground and games room. Beeson Farm is an ideal location for exploring South Devon and its many beautiful beaches, stunning coastline and countryside, or further up to Dartmoor National Park. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
The Linhay is located in a quiet village just half a mile from the beach and pub at Beesands. The Linhay is all on one level with accessible bedrooms and bathrooms, spacious open plan living room with log burner and plenty of natural light, a private sun deck and enclosed garden. Ideal for families or couples, the Linhay is an ideal base to explore the beautiful coastline between Salcombe and Dartmouth or further afield to Dartmoor National Park. Sorry, no pets. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Contemporary, family-friendly apartment just moments from Woolacombe Beach, with everything in easy reach. Unwind together in open-plan living spaces, take a dip in the outdoor pool, and enjoy coastal walks, friendly cafés and laid-back days by the sea. Your easy-breezy home from home by the beach!
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
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.
Surround yourself with peace and beauty at Gardener's Cottage. This charming, one-bedroom property is close to Lynton and Lynmouth, and within walking distance of the beach at Heddon's Mouth as well as the historic Hunter's Inn pub. It's perfect for couples, friends or independent adventurers who want to stay in the heart of Exmoor National Park with footpaths and mountain bike routes leading directly from the door. The cottage is one of only three at Martinhoe Cleave; a private estate reached via a long driveway with no passing traffic to disturb the tranquillity.
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?
