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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The Bunny Barn in Combefishacre near Ipplepen is the perfect place to escape into 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. Boasting flagstone floors, thick stone walls and original oak beams. Ipplepen village is a mile away with a traditional pub serving great food(The Wellington), A village Co-Op for groceries and a lovely coffee shop. There is a very fine Church with Norman origins and a beautiful rood screen with medieval painted saints. Nearby the towns of Totnes and Newton Abbot provide 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.
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
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 four 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.
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.
Rose Cottage ticks every box for those searching for a holiday cottage in Devon with incredible views, a location convenient for popular attractions and enough space for a family, including the dog. The two-bedroom cottage is on a non-working farm with loads of outdoor space and views over meadows and fields to Start Bay. Guests can walk from the picket gate to the South West Coast Path, North Hallsands Beach and the Cricket Inn in Beesands, while Salcombe, Dartmouth and Kingsbridge are only a short drive away.
Grab the kids and the dog and head for Jasmine Cottage. This lovely stone terrace is on a non-working farm in the South Hams, with far-reaching views of the countryside and the coast. Salcombe, Dartmouth and Kingbridge are all an easy drive away, while the Cricket Inn pub in Beesands and the South West Coast Path are within walking distance of the front door. There is space for four people to sleep in two bedrooms, with a courtyard for sunny days and a woodburning stove for chilly nights.
Lower Carlane Court is a ground floor accommodation sleeping four people in two bedrooms with space for two more on a comfortable sofa bed. It's an ideal holiday home for a multi generation family break in Devon, located only a mile from Slapton Sands and even closer to Slapton Ley lake and nature reserve. The property is one of three lovely self-catering barn conversions at Carlane Court in Slapton village, a few minutes from a village shop and two friendly pubs. Dartmouth, Salcombe and Dartmoor National Park are all within easy reach, as is the South West Coast Path and the beaches and attractions. Lower Carlane is dog friendly and is available for bookings all year round.
Upper Carlane Court sleeps six people in three bedrooms with space for two more on a comfortable sofa bed. It's an ideal holiday home for a multi generation family break in Devon, located only a mile from Slapton Sands and even closer to Slapton Ley lake and nature reserve. The property is one of three lovely self-catering barn conversions at Carlane Court in Slapton village, a few minutes from a village shop and two friendly pubs. Dartmouth, Salcombe and Dartmoor National Park are all within easy reach, as is the South West Coast Path and the beaches and attractions. Upper Carlane Court is available for bookings during the peak summer season in 2024 all year round in 2025.
The Stables sleeps six people in three bedrooms with space for two more on a comfortable sofa bed. It's an ideal holiday home for a multi generation family break in Devon, located only a mile from Slapton Sands and even closer to Slapton Ley lake and nature reserve. The property is one of three lovely self-catering barn conversions at Carlane Court in Slapton village, a few minutes from a village shop and two friendly pubs. Dartmouth, Salcombe and Dartmoor National Park are all within easy reach, as is the South West Coast Path and the beaches and attractions. The Stables is available for bookings all year round.
A few minutes walk from the golden sands of Exmouth beach (with Blue Flag status), Sunnydeck is a fresh, modern ground floor apartment sleeping two guests in one spacious bedroom. Sunnydeck apartment has a lovely decked area where you can relax and catch the sunshine. The large double bedroom has a king size bed with high quality mattress, plenty of storage space & flat screen digital TV. The comfy lounge has 2 & 3 seat settee, electric fire, flat screen smart TV, HomeHub Docking Station with Bluetooth. Kitchen is well equipped with electric cooker, washing machine, microwave, fridge, freezer & dishwasher. The shower room has shower cubical with electric shower, basin & toilet. Separate dining area with extending table. The apartment has central heating, controllable by the visitor. Linen & towels provided. Gas, heating, electric and Wi-Fi internet included. OFF ROAD PARKING, suitable for a MEDIUM SIZE CAR (eg.Golf estate). The parking space is protected by cctv, wh
Bigbury 7 is a superb seafront holiday apartment in Devon where you can enjoy uninterrupted sea views from the living area, main bedroom and spacious patio. Located in the coastal village of Bigbury on Sea, the self-catering holiday home sleeps four people in two ensuite bedrooms. It is ideal for couples or families, including those with dogs. There's nothing better than being able to stroll from your front door to the sand, popping back and forth as it suits you. Plymouth, Dartmouth, Dartmoor National Park and the English Riviera are all nearby for days out.
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.
Gamekeeper's Cottage is in a tranquil setting in the Exmoor National Park, close to Lynton and Lynmouth and only a mile from the coast. It sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, one of which is downstairs, and suits couples as well as families and friends. The views are incredible, and there are gorgeous walks and mountain bike trails from the front door of the holiday cottage. There are only three cottages at the end of the long private driveway, ensuring you aren't disturbed by anything louder than the local birds.
Hornbeam is a quiet holiday home in Rackenford in Devon, with immediate access to beautiful footpaths, including one to the 13th Century Stag Inn pub, which is open at weekends. The one-bedroom property is on a peaceful smallholding near Tiverton, where there is an excellent array of amenities for your self-catering stay. Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks are within 20 minutes and 40 minutes, and it's also easy to reach beaches on the north and south coast. Hornbeam is dog-friendly and ideal for couples or independent travellers who want a rural location convenient for beautiful sights and favourite attractions.
Experience the perfect getaway at Orchard View, a charming holiday cottage in North Devon. This fully accessible and pet-friendly retreat comfortably sleeps four in two stylish double bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom. It's great for couples, families and friends due to its layout and proximing to the coast and favourite North Devon attractions. Enjoy a private garden for relaxation and explore the nearby village of Goodleigh with the welcoming New Inn pub and a village shop. Just a short drive to Barnstaple and stunning beaches like Woolacombe, Orchard View is surrounded by beautiful walking and cycling routes, including the Tarka Trail.
Poppy's Barn is a charming stone holiday cottage in Ilfracombe, perfect for a romantic getaway or solo retreat. Located on Higher Mullacott Farm, just a mile from the harbour, it offers high-quality bedding and a welcome pack of local goodies. Enjoy 3.5 acres of gardens, outdoor games, and a beach hut with essentials for beach days at nearby Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton. Explore the scenic South West Coast Path, take a boat trip from Ilfracombe Harbour, or visit local attractions like Tunnels Beaches and Braunton Burrows. Poppy's Barn is private, self-contained, and ideal for couples or solo travellers.
Westwell Hall is close to the South West Coast Path in Ilfracombe and offers stunning views of the seaside town and the water. This big self-catering holiday home, with its 14 bedrooms (10 with ensuite bathrooms), is an ideal venue for a group of friends or family gathering for a celebration or a reunion. Previously a Victorian Gentleman's residence, the house also lends itself to hosting corporate events and holistic retreats. The location, the beautifully proportioned rooms, and the acre-sized garden with a patio and private hot tub make Westwell Hall a perfect choice for a memorable vacation.
6 Bluestone Point is a modern holiday apartment in Mortehoe, boasting spectacular views of Woolacombe Bay. This first-floor property features a spacious 35-square-foot living area, accommodating four guests in two bedrooms, with a long private balcony accessible from both the living room and master suite. Dogs are welcome, ensuring your furry friend joins the fun! The apartment is close to the beach, local pubs, shops, and tea rooms. Mortehoe is only a mile from Woolacombe Beach and even closer to Grunta Beach and Barricane Beach - perfect for swimming and beachcombing. Enjoy surfing, coastal walks, and nearby attractions like Exmoor Zoo and the Milky Way Adventure Park.
Sea View is a fantastic holiday apartment in Lynmouth, perfect for families as it sleeps six people in three bedrooms and has a flexible layout. It features water views from every room, modern furnishings, and a large patio facing the coast. Conveniently located within walking distance of Lynmouth Harbour and the beach, you can easily explore the village’s charming cafes, shops, and pubs like The Ancient Mariner. The heritage Victorian Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is nearby, providing effortless access to the area's attractions. Sea View’s prime location and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal holiday home for your seaside holiday in Exmoor.
Watersmeet View is a family and dog-friendly holiday rental in Lynmouth, offering stunning views of Lynmouth Bay and all the modern comforts a family could need. This two-bedroom, ground-floor apartment features a patio with loungers for sunbathing and alfresco dining against the backdrop of Lynmouth Bay. Just a short walk across the river, you’ll discover Lynmouth’s charming cafes, unique shops, and welcoming pubs like The Ancient Mariner. The nearby historic Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway provides easy exploration. Featuring stylish, contemporary furnishings, Watersmeet View is ideal for a serene Exmoor getaway. Enjoy great access to scenic hikes, local attractions, and the beautiful attractions, coast, trails and wildlife of Exmoor National Park.
Popular towns in and around Devon:
AppledoreAxminsterAxmouthAylesbeareBabbacombeBamptonBarnstapleBeaworthyBeerBickingtonBidefordBlackdown HillsBradworthyBranscombeBratton FlemingBrauntonBrendonBridfordBrixhamBroadclystBroadwoodwidgerBuckfastleighBudeCadburyChagfordChallacombeChudleighChulmleighChumleighClayhidonClyst St LawrenceColytonCombe MartinCombe RaleighCreditonCroydeCullomptonDalwoodDartmoorDartmouthDawlishDevonDittishamDrewsteigntonDulvertonDunsterExeterExmoor National ParkExmouthGreat TorringtonHartlandHolsworthyHonitonHope CoveIlfracombeKingsbridgeLydfordLynmouthLyntonMaidencombeMemburyMineheadMoretonhampsteadNewton AbbotNewton AbbottOakhamptonOkehamptonOkehampton HamletsPaigntonParkhamPlymouthPonsworthyPorlockPrincetownSalcombeSauntonSeatonShaldonSidmouthSimonsbathSlaptonSouth HamsSouth MoltonTavistockTeignmouthThrowleighThurlestoneTivertonTopshamTorbayTorquayTotnesUmberleighUpotteryWelcombeWestward HoWidecombe in the MoorWinkleighWoolacombeWoolacombe BayYealmptonSome 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 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?
