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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Stay in an authentic thatched cottage in this quiet village, which is under two miles from the coast and part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Grade II listed cottage is in Kingston, a short stroll from The Dolphin pub and within easy reach of Wonwell Beach, Bigbury and Bantham, as well as Plymouth, Dartmoor and attractions like Pennywell Farm and Burgh Island. The cottage sleeps up to six people in three lovely bedrooms and is ideal for families, with lots of space indoors and a private enclosed garden.
This top floor beachfront apartment is a fantastic find. Located in Bigbury-on-Sea, guests have panoramic views from the living room and the balcony and is just steps from the sand. Guests have access to the leisure facilities in the complex that include an indoor swimming pool, gym, bar and restaurant, as well as an allocated parking space. Bigbury is part of the Dorset Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within easy reach of Kingsbridge, Salcombe and Plymouth. There is space for up to four people to sleep in two bedrooms, making the apartment a favourite with couples as well as families of all ages.
You won't forget your stay at Morocco House. This stylish house has accommodation over four floors and has uninterrupted views of the River Dart from both the house and the garden. It's in the pretty village of Kingswear in the South Hams region of Devon, a short walk from the ferry to Dartmouth, train station, shops and local pubs. The house has two bedrooms plus a double sofa bed and can sleep up to six people, with every room beautifully furnished to ensure a comfortable stay.
The Cowshed is a peaceful haven in a beautiful location just outside of Moretonhampstead. Shops, pubs and cafes are all within walking distance, and there are miles of easy footpaths, superb cycling routes and bridleways nearby. The cottage is in Dartmoor National Park and surrounded by beautiful countryside, yet also close to favourite attractions such as Bovey Castle Hotel and Golf Course, Castle Drogo, and the high moor. The cottage is light and spacious with a private courtyard and a balcony with lovely views. It is perfect for couples but can also accommodate up to two children on a double sofa bed.
A lovely stone barn conversion in Combe Martin on the edge of Exmoor National Park, Nutcombe Barn is on a private 6 acre estate at the end of a long driveway with no passing traffic to disturb the sound of birdsong, and no light pollution to dim the beauty of the night skies. The beach is just two miles away, and there are plenty of walking spots nearby on the South West Coast Path and Exmoor. It is the perfect cottage for families with plenty of space indoors and outside, together with three luxurious ensuite bedrooms that can sleep up to six guests. A couples discount is offered when only one bedroom is used. The owners of Nutcombe Barn have made the cottage both child and dog-friendly, and ideal for a relaxing holiday at any time of the year.
Clanaborough is a quintessential thatched cottage in Devon and a fantastic place to stay. The cottage is so comfortable and conveniently located to explore Devon's beautiful beaches and countryside that the owners enjoy regular repeat bookings from families who have been visiting for years - sometimes generations! Lovely countryside walks lead from the front gate, and the coast is just four miles away at Bigbury-on-Sea. Dartmoor National Park is close, as are Kingsbridge, Modbury, Salcombe, Totnes and Plymouth. With space for up to seven people in three bedrooms and loads of unique and original features, Clanaborough is excellent for families and friends. Tourist board rating: 3 Star
Sitting in one of Devon's most enviable positions, Seven Ocean Reach is just perfect for two couples or families and is a stylish architect designed holiday home with magnificent sea views on the South Coast of Devon. Nestling within the popular South Hams area, this stylish holiday home is close to Hope Cove, Bolberry Down and Salcombe, and within easy reach of Dartmoor National Park. Wonderful coastal walks, beautiful beaches and an on-site bar and restaurant for meals out/take-aways - all the right ingredients for a relaxing holiday by the sea.
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.
The Owlery is a cosy romantic pet-free retreat for couples with a log burning stove, fabulous spa bath for two, king-size bed and lovely valley views. The perfect place to escape away from it all in a tranquil haven within the popular South Hams area of Devon. Enjoy coastal and country walks, lazy days on the golden sands and an abundance of day trips out.
Comfy and homely, The Lower Barn welcomes couples and offers the chance to experience a taste of country life in Devon. With direct access out onto Dartmoor from the farm, guests staying at this cosy holiday cottage can enjoy days exploring the plethora of footpaths and byways and return home to enjoy supper in front of the Aga. A rare opportunity to enjoy isolated beauty and escape from the outside world!
A spacious luxurious large holiday home sitting on a private estate in the very heart of the beautiful rolling countryside of North Devon. Located near to Barnstaple and within easy driving distance of the coast, this is a superb retreat for large groups of friends and family who want to spend time together or celebrate a special occasion.
The South Hams is Devon at its finest, with gorgeous countryside and beautiful beaches on the doorstep. This period cottage is in Kington, close to the village pub and a leisurely half-hour's stroll along the South West Coast Path to Wonwell Beach. Kingsbridge is close by, as are Salcombe, Totnes and Dartmoor National Park, so there is lots to see and do at any time of the year. This period cottage sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms and is perfect for families, friends and couples.
Clematis Cottage is a spacious self-catering holiday home set on a woodland farm in the very heart of the North Devon countryside with hot tub for exclusive guests use. The property is ideal for 3 generation family stays with 1 downstairs en-suite wetroom and 3 upstairs ensuite bedrooms. This is a great location for those wanting to explore Devon and its many attractions. Sitting on the fringe of Dartmoor's stunning national park, there are plenty of attractions for days out and excellent facilities back at base including a games room, hot tub, plenty of outside space to relax when the sun shines and dog heaven with beautiful walks in the 75 acre private woodland. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
An ideal place to relax and unwind in a tranquil valley setting in the beautiful South Hams close to the coast. Located near to Slapton village with its two excellent dog friendly pubs, and the stunning beaches of Start Bay. Dittiscombe Estate is an ideal place to explore this lovely part of South Devon with an abundance of attractions, coastal walks and lovely beaches nearby. Both Rafters and Dovecote cottages are ideal couples cottages providing comfortable living areas and second bedrooms, or for families of 3 or 4.
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.
A cosy, 4 Star holiday cottage with log burner ideally placed between Salcombe and Dartmouth in an AONB in South Devon. Just a mile from Beesands village with beach and excellent gastro pub and with easy access onto the South West Coastal Path, The Trap House is a popular self-catering choice for families and couples looking for a holiday by the sea. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Beautifully presented yet comfy throughout, Fern Cottage is a superb choice for those who enjoy the great outdoors with fantastic opportunities for walking and cycling on the doorstep. Nestling amongst the beauty of the Exmoor National Park the cottage is one of five holiday retreats sitting on the Devon/Somerset borders with an abundance of attractions within easy reach as well as country pubs. Simonsbath is just three miles away.
The Studio is a 3 bedroom, traditional semi-detachedcoastal house set in a beautiful location on the South Devon Coast On the cliffs of Sharpitor, The Studio sits amongst National Trust woodland, overlooking the sandbar, marking the entrance to Salcombe Estuary The unspoilt views from The Studio take in the spectacular Devon coastline,the broad estuary towards Salcombe and form the centre piece to this idyllic, tucked away, holiday location
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. With Superfast fibre broadband it is also ideal for remote working. 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. Two night Fri & Sat Shorts breaks available until Easter & from Oct. Flexible 3 night breaks available until May half term.
The Cider House is a Grade II Listed barn conversion set on a secluded private estate in its own secluded valley with no passing traffic, yet just two miles from the beach. 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.
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?
