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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Peaceful Self-Catering Holiday House near the sand dunes and Beaches of Saunton and Croyde on the outskirts of Braunton, North Devon. We are within the buffer zone of the Braunton Unesco Bioshpere Sand Dune Nature reserve and next to two sites of special scientific interest for their rare habitats. It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but only a mile, 20 minutes walk, to Braunton centre and 2 miles to Saunton Golf Club & Saunton Sands Hotel, Saunton Beach and 3.5 miles to Croyde Beach. There are some wonderful walks and cycle rides from the door. You can also cycle along the back lanes and fields to The Tarka Trail, Saunton Golf Club, Sandy Lane Car Park, and Crow point. A new house, close by the lodges. A private setting with own patio and secure lock up to store bikes and boards. Lively art decorates the walls with lots of ski mountain paintings as well as Pete’s sunset and ocean paintings. It’s slightly larger than the Lodges and set in its own private gar
Relax and explore with a stay in our beautifully converted stone barn nestled in nature by the Cornish coast. Guests are invited to explore our 4 acre grounds (including meadows, wild gardens, orchards and woodland), and with a leather goods studio on site, the village pub and pottery just 200 metres away. With beaches, surfing spots and endless nature walks on the doorstep, there is much on offer to make your stay special. We are dog and family friendly and cannot wait to welcome you!
Beach House is a beautifully styled, pet-friendly holiday home just a short walk from Woolacombe’s award-winning beach. Sleeping six in three en suite bedrooms, it’s ideal for families or friends seeking a relaxing coastal escape. Enjoy sea views from the living room and garden, cook in the modern kitchen, or unwind in the games room. The enclosed garden and patio are perfect for al fresco dining, while the beach, village shops, and eateries are all within easy reach. With a superb location, flexible layout, and stylish interiors, Beach House is a wonderful base for exploring North Devon’s coast and countryside.
Whimbrels House is an exceptional six-bedroom coastal retreat with sweeping views across Watermouth Cove and the North Devon coastline. Designed with space, style and comfort in mind, it features a heated outdoor pool (May–Sept), safari lodge-style balcony, games room, oak-framed viewing gallery, and garden complete with pizza oven, BBQ and Breeze House. Inside, you'll find a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living and dining areas, and six en suite bedrooms arranged across three floors—ideal for multi-generational families or groups. Close to Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, and Watermouth Castle, Whimbrels House offers an unforgettable base for a luxury North Devon escape.
The Count House, a beautifully converted Victorian Warehouse beside the River Tamar in Weir Quay, welcomes couples and families. This two-bedroom retreat features modern luxuries like underfloor heating while retaining its original charm with sash windows and original exposed trusses. It accommodates up to six guests and offers flexible bedding options and a baby travel cot and high chair. Enjoy scenic walks which can link into the Tamara Way, or walk along the river or explore Dartmoor for outdoor adventures. Anglers can fish nearby, and water sports enthusiasts can sail or paddleboard. Visit local attractions like Morwellham Quay and Cotehele Manor for a perfect UK holiday getaway at The Count House. We are walking distance from the River Tamar which offers all types of watersports, there is a public slipway from which you can launch your boat/sup. Even our dachshund enjoys a daily swim!
Smelter's Rest, located in the historic Tamar Union Tin Smelting Works at Weir Quay, Yelverton, is a charming one-bedroom holiday cottage perfect for couples or solo travellers. Enjoy a luxurious king-sized bed, a cosy sofa, and a terrace with a BBQ and firepit, ideal for stargazing. Explore nearby attractions like the Boatyard Café, Tavistock, and Calstock village, or take a scenic journey on the Tamar Valley train. Surrounded by natural beauty, with fishing on the River Tavy and walking or cycling trails, Smelter's Rest offers a unique, relaxing experience in Devon's stunning landscape. We are walking distance from the River Tamar which offers all types of watersports, there is a public slipway from which you can launch your boat/sup. Even our dachshund enjoys a daily swim!!
Judge's Cottage is your ideal destination for adventure and relaxation on the eastern shore of the River Dart, next to the South West Coast Path. This refurbished holiday cottage sleeps four people in two bedrooms with breathtaking marina views and is perfect for couples, families, and friends. A quick ferry ride takes you to Dartmouth's eclectic shops, cafés, and lively pubs, letting you explore unique boutiques, enjoy year-round markets, and uncover historical treasures like Dartmouth Castle. With hiking, swimming, and paddleboarding opportunities nearby, plus stunning beaches and exciting annual events, Judge's Cottage is the perfect self-catering retreat for unforgettable fun by the water!
"Escape to serenity, Indulge in Comfort!" As seen on Mortimer and Whitehouse Gone fishing and Escape to the country. Picture the tranquillity of staying in a Double Decker bus, parked in a beautify paddock with free roaming Alpacas and Donkeys near ponds with a stream running past! Then welcome to Fosfelle.
Rowan is a comfortable 3 bed roomed property which sleeps 6. Down stairs is open plan, with wit kitchen diner and Sitting area complete with sofa bed and a downstairs toilet. Upstairs there is an on suite master with king size bed, a double bed and a twin room with separate bathroom. there is a small enclosed outside seating area adjacent to the larger garden and parking area.
Widemouth Bay Cabin is one of 10 stunning architecturally designed cabins at Coastal Cabins Glamping. Grouped around a fishing lake and just over a mile to the breathtaking coastline of North Devon, this is the perfect coastal escape. All the cabins are painted in pretty pastel hues with Widemouth Bay being a sea blue. Widemouth Bay Cabin is the perfect cabin for Family Glamping North Devon style. The cabin sleeps up to 4+1 people in a Kingsize bed and bunk beds (+extra small bed or cot if needed for an extra child under 6), and has a private deck and stunning views over looking the countryside. They also have a fully equipped kitchenette which is perfect for cooking up light meals. There is a fridge, freezer box, small oven with hob, kettle, toaster and all plates and cutlery etc for a family. Inside the cabin is also an en-suite shower room with sink and wc and all your basic toiletries. Widemouth Bay is towards the near end of the fi
Black Swan is a beautiful example of lakefront luxury. Designed and built to sit seamlessly within its natural surroundings, this enormous holiday home is stunning inside and out. As one of just four romantic holiday cottages spread over 35 private acres of the exclusive Woody Park estate near Cullompton, you'll have all the peace and privacy you crave. The interior is finished to a superb standard and includes a bedroom encompassing the entire top floor. However, it's the lake views, visible from virtually everywhere in the house and from the large timber deck, that will win your heart.
Egret promises seclusion, luxury and stunning waterfront views. Situated on the edge of a private lake and surrounded by 35 pristine acres of woodland, lakes and gardens, it is one of only four holiday homes on the exclusive Woody Park estate on the edge of Cullompton in rural Devon. The owners have designed everything to cater for romantic holidays. From the peaceful location, high-quality fixtures and furnishings, expansive timber deck with sun loungers and a hot tub, luxuriously deep bath, and the bedroom where you can wake up to sunlight on the water, it is the ultimate escape for any couple.
Write your own "happily ever after" at Kingfishers. This charming holiday cottage is like a fairytale, set on a private island and surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens. It's perfect for a romantic escape, a backdrop for your honeymoon or anniversary, or as the setting for an intimate proposal. The holiday home is deep in the Devon countryside yet within easy reach of the M5 and includes lakefront views from every window, a rowboat, deck with an outdoor hot tub and a gas barbecue, and wonderfully indulgent furnishings.
Woodpeckers is a secluded haven in the heart of the Devon countryside. As one of only four holiday homes on the exclusive adults-only Woody Estate resort, you are surrounded by 35 acres with woodland walks, lakes, and gardens. Protected by an ancient oak woodland, your holiday cottage is completely private and comes with an outdoor hot tub, your own rowboat, and chocolates and champagne on arrival. Grab your sweetheart by the hand and escape to the beauty of Woodpeckers.
Perfect for gatherings of family or friends (not suitable for under 3s), Torrs Cottage offers spacious en-suite accommodation for up to 17 people with parking for 8 cars and large gardens. There's a large kitchen/dining room which seats 12 people at the table and 5 at the breakfast bar plus a separate bar/lounge/games room with pool and table tennis tables, smart TV, Xbox and woodburner. There's also a sun terrace/BBQ area with beautiful far-reaching views, private lawned garden and paddock play area with trampoline, basket swing, football goal and firepit. Quiet location, only 5 mins to Tunnels Beaches and South West Coast path and 10 mins walk to Ilfracombe seafront.
Honeysuckle is an ideal cottage for couples and one dog. Cosy sitting room with log-burner and valley views, kingsize bed, separate kitchen/dining area, and bathroom with walk-in shower. An enclosed garden and views ensures guests can relax in the tranquil surroundings and easily access Dittiscombe Estate grounds which are on the doorstep.
Breath-taking panoramic sea views welcome you to the property. Nestled away in the garden you will have your own private access to your holiday home and a private section of garden to enjoy as well. The Garden Pavilion is perfect for a family or friends getaway, sleeping up to 5 people. The property boasts outstanding sea views and is very well equipped so you can make yourself at home and relax, unwind and take time out to enjoy the local area. We are surrounded by National Trust land and the South West coast path with pubs, cafes, and Woolacombe award winning beach just 10-15 minutes walk away.
A beautiful detached stone barn conversion on the edge of Exmoor National Park in Combe Martin. With the South West Coast Path and Exmoor a short distance away, Nutcombe cottage is perfect for walking holidays for couples, friends and family along with your dog. Up to two dogs can happily play in the cottages own enclosed garden while their owners relax on the south facing sun terrace admiring the stunning views and landscaped gardens. With no passing traffic you will enjoy the sound of birdsong and gaze in awe at the dark skies of Exmoors Dark Sky Reserve. Just 2 miles from the local beach, perfect for kayaking and SUP's and just a 20 minute drive to some of the countries most beautiful sandy beaches of Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton. Shorts breaks Oct to May half term or late notice (minimum 3 nights stay)
Torbay Rise is a beautiful holiday home where families can gather comfortably to spend precious time together. The sizeable Victorian property is the owner's former home, and the sense of warmth and welcome is evident in every room. They have carefully refurbished the property to provide space for 15 people in eight bedrooms with two reception rooms, a big kitchen/diner for family self-catering, a cinema room, a games room, and a heated indoor swimming pool with a hot tub and a sauna. Guests enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop location with windows facing Torquay beach and the harbour. The seaside, shops, cafes and other amenities are within a ten-minute stroll.
A house party needs a venue that encourages socialising yet allows people to retreat to their private space when they need to rest. Tone Dale House fits the bill perfectly. This elegant Georgian manor has been sympathetically refurbished to sleep 31 people in 15/16 bedrooms, featuring multiple reception rooms, a cinema/party room and over four acres of professionally landscaped grounds. It's a popular holiday home for group self-catering holidays in Somerset as it is convenient for the M5 and has a wide choice of activities and sights within easy reach. You can walk to the pub, supermarket, restaurants and cafes, or talk to the owner about brining the entertainment and catering in house.
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?
