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.
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. Read more
Six self-catering holiday homes nestling amidst North Devon countryside within easy driving distance of the coast and also Dartmoor and Exmoor. Perfect for families, couples and friends with on-site tennis court and indoor swimming pool. There is also direct access onto the Tarka trail for cyclists and walkers.
A modern stylish holiday home with fantastic views and the use of a hot tub providing a perfect place for a relaxing holiday in the heart of the beautiful Blackdown Hills (AONB) in Devon. Close to the village of Hemyock, Sunnybank is a great base for discovering Devon's beauty and numerous attractions.
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.
Fantastic family-friendly holiday home 500 metres from South Milton Sands Beach and within walking distance of a nature reserve, golf course and pub. Primrose Cottage sleeps eight people in four bedrooms, with the potential to accommodate two extra children on bunk beds. It has glorious views over the valley to the sea and lovely walks and bike rides from the door. Salcombe, Dartmouth, Exeter, Plymouth and the Dartmoor National Park are all within easy reach for fun days. The cottage is dog-friendly and available for bookings all year round.
The Bunny Barn near Ipplepen provides a peaceful place to escape to the Devonshire countryside for a holiday. The medieval barn has been sympathetically converted to offer comfortable self-catering accommodation for couples or small families with young children, and includes flagstone floors, thick stone walls and original oak beams. Ipplepen village is a mile away with a favourite pub (The Wellington), church and village shop, while nearby Newton Abbot provides everything else you could need. Dartmoor National Park and the beautiful beaches of the English Riviera are both only five miles away, providing a wealth of walks, cycling routes, attractions and sightseeing.
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 with discount for couples or parties of four.
Sitting in a tranquil position amongst the beautiful Black Down Hills AONB, this pretty beamed holiday cottage affords lovely views which can be enjoyed from its hot tub. Wisteria Cottage enjoys superb facilities and a beautiful setting which makes it the perfect retreat for a relaxing holiday in East Devon. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Situated in a peaceful position in East Devon, Willow Cottage nestles amongst the glorious countryside of the Blackdown Hills, and is a romantic retreat which boasts its own private hot tub - simply relax and soak up the stunning scenery whilst you bubble your aches away.
Nestling amidst the beautiful rolling Blackdown Hills in East Devon, Jasmine Cottage is a great self-catering choice for those seeking a taste of country life with lovely walks and cycle rides on the doorstep.
Honeysuckle Cottage is located in an oasis of peace and tranquility within the beautiful Blackdown Hills in East Devon. A romantic holiday cottage that provides superb self-catering accommodation with its own private hot tub to help you truly unwind after you have been exploring, walking or cycling!
The Old Piggery is a beautiful rural holiday home close to Barnstaple and within easy reach of the North Devon coast. You can walk from the cottage to Goodleigh village pub and it sleeps six people and includes level access to the garden and a fully-accessible bedroom and wetroom on the ground floor. It's an excellent choice for a family self-catering holiday as you're within a short drive of beaches, towns, attractions and Exmoor National Park. If you're craving the opportunity to unwind in beautiful surroundings, this lovely barn conversion will not disappoint.
You'll see something beautiful everywhere you look at Newton Cross House. Whether it's the original Georgian features inside or the freshwater pool in the walled garden, this house has everything families and friends could want in a self-catering holiday home in North Devon. It's in the quiet village of Newton Tracey, within walking distance of the local pub and only a few miles from Barnstaple's shops, cafes and restaurants. There are miles of spectacular coastline to discover in one direction and Exmoor National Park in the other. In between is a wealth of fun attractions to suit all ages and tastes. Newton Cross House sleeps 11 people in five luxurious bedrooms and welcomes children and well-behaved dogs.
Nor West is a brilliant holiday home in Appledore, a pretty fishing village where the River Torridge meets the sea. It sleeps six people in four bedrooms, with guests enjoying panoramic views over the coast from Westward Ho! to Saunton. The west-facing position means unforgettable sunsets while the location is within walking distance of a pub, shops and the ferry over the river to Instow. Fantastic beaches, loads of opportunities for swimming, sailing, paddle boarding and surfing, and fun attractions make this self-catering holiday home in Devon popular with families and friends.
The Stable at West Down sleeps up to five guests and is attractive and stylish, providing a warm welcome to families, couples and dog owners. Ideally placed in the North Devon village of West Down (with the all essential pub and village shop within strolling distance!), the holiday cottage is just a ten minute drive from the coast and glorious beaches like Woolacombe. A great base for exploring Devon's many attractions including the coast, countryside and National Park.
Modern comforts meet rural charm in this lovely holiday cottage in the North Devon village of Goodleigh. Goodleigh Cottage sleeps six people in three beautifully decorated bedrooms and features an upstairs open-plan living area with a vaulted ceiling and stunning countryside views. It's only ten minutes from Barnstaple and within easy reach of beautiful beaches and Exmoor National Park. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom holiday home sleeps up to six people and is ideal for families, extended families, and friends. Bookings are available all year round, with guests able to enjoy fantastic walks and bike rides from the door.
Just a stone's throw from Exmoor National Park and long sandy beaches, Courtyard Cottage is set in gorgeous North Devon countryside on the outskirts of the market town of Barnstaple. Perfect for walking, cycling or surfing holidays, or simply enjoying some time out in a beautiful setting, this tastefully decorated holiday cottage is an ideal self-catering getaway for couples or small families. Sleeping four guests in two bedrooms with a wood burning stove and underfloor heating it is cosy all year round.
A charming period self-catering property located in the popular village of Braunton in North Devon. Located on an original farmer's estate, Diana's Cottage sits in a beautiful rural setting, yet is walking distance to the village shops, pubs and restaurants. There is a choice of fantastic beaches on your doorstep, or head inland to explore the wild beauty of Exmoor. Sleeping up to five guests in two bedrooms this pretty holiday cottage is perfect for families or couples looking for a seaside break at any time of the year.
Seaglass is a modern holiday home on a quiet holiday park in Westward Ho! The two-bedroom, two-bathroom property sleeps four people and is dog and child-friendly, making it ideal for couples or families who love the quiet location that's conveniently close to the beach, shops, and restaurants. Seaglass is within walking distance of the sand, rock pools and sea pool that make Westward Ho! such a favourite holiday destination for so many. Golf, surfing, swimming and walking along the South West Coast Path are all accessible from the property, with nearby attractions including The Big Sheep, Barnstaple pannier market, and the Tarka Trail.
Clovehayes is a spacious holiday home close to Dartmoor and within walking distance of the centre of North Tawton's shops, pubs and other amenities. It's perfect for a holiday with family or friends, as it sleeps six people in three bedrooms with lots of luxurious extras like Emperor sized beds, underfloor heating, and high thread-count bed linen. There are footpaths, cycling routes, fishing lakes and golf courses nearby, and favourite attractions that include Castle Drogo, Powderham Castle, RHS Rosemoor, and Dartington Crystal. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
This ground floor self-catering apartment is perfect for families as it sleeps up to six people in three bedrooms and has a garden. Lower Instow Cottage is in a prime position across the road from Instow Beach and within walking distance of shops, cafes and pubs. Westward Ho! and the South West Coast Path are only a few miles away, and Exmoor National Park is also within easy reach with more scope for walking, mountain biking and horse riding. There are golf courses, gardens, historic buildings and adventure parks within a small radius of Lower Instow Beach Cottage, making it a wonderful choice for a holiday in every season.
Popular towns in and around Devon:
AppledoreAxminsterBarnstapleBidefordBrixhamCombe MartinCreditonCroydeDartmouthDawlishExmouthGreat TorringtonHonitonHope CoveIlfracombeKingsbridgeMineheadNewton AbbotOkehamptonSalcombeTavistockTeignmouthTivertonTorquayTotnesUmberleighWoolacombeSome local suggestions:
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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 coastline of Devon 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.
Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Check out all the other popular towns in and around Devon below:
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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 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.
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 visit 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.
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 visiting Devon.
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 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!
