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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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.
A beautiful detached stone barn conversion on the edge of Exmoor National Park within easy reach of the local cove at Combe Martin. With the South West Coast Path and Exmoor just up the hill, 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. The local beach is a haven for kayakers and paddleboarders and it's just a short 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.
Nutcombe Barn is a luxury, dog friendly and family friendly barn conversion set in a beautiful secluded valley in 6 acres of glorious landscaped gardens and grounds on the edge of Exmoor National Park within easy reach of the local beach in Combe Martin North Devon. Sleeping 6 guests across three beautifully appointed double en-suite bedrooms, it is perfect for multi-generational stays, larger families and friends looking to holiday together in style. Up to two dogs are welcome who get to enjoy a large dedicated dog garden right next door to the cottage as well as a three-acre meadow; perfect for zoomies. Relax on your own private South facing sun terrace watching the sun set over the valley with no passing traffic to disturb the sound of birdsong, and no light pollution to dim the beauty of the night skies. Nutcombe Barn offers a haven of peace and tranquillity in a stylish coastal, countryside estate with easy access to gorgeous sandy beaches at Woolacombe, Croyde & Saunton, the South West Coast Path and Exmoor National Park.
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 within easy reach of the local beach at Combe Martin. 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.
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
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
Just a stone's throw from the beach - listen to the sound of the waves lapping up the slipway in this delightful cottage. Catboat Cottage is a gorgeous 200-year-old holiday home, a short stroll from pubs, cafés and shops. The former fisherman's cottage is on one of the oldest streets in Appledore and the South West Coastal path goes past the front door. Sleeping eight guests in four bedrooms, it has loads of family-friendly touches that make it especially popular with families and groups. Lovingly restored to provide all the modern conveniences that make a holiday home special. Its many original period features add to its charm, character and cosiness. Highlights... Only seconds from the beach 4 individually styled bedrooms, one on the ground floor 3 bathrooms including one en suite Well-equipped kitchen and separate dining room Enclosed south-facing garden Located in the heart of the village - within easy walking distance to the shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs Dog friendly Sleeps up to 8 plus an infant Appledore is so much more than just a traditional bucket and spade destination. The local area is renowned as a haven for creativity. Numerous independent galleries and artisan workshops offer a wonderfully eclectic mix of arts and crafts. Some artists exhibit in shops and markets, others have open studios in their own front room. In addition to the wonderful cafés and delicatessen, you also have choice of individual shops ranging from antiques, gifts and clothing to hand-made chocolates. Winding narrow lanes adorned with quaint fisherman's cottages pair with lovely views across to Instow, making the historic village so unique. They say the best things come in small packages and Appledore is a perfect example. Whatever your passions, there’s always something to appeal in this delightful coastal village. A perfect location for a relaxing holiday in North Devon, where local attractions include The Big Sheep and RHS Rosemoor and spectacular beaches, rolling countryside, and miles of footpaths and cycling routes. Who doesn't love a holiday by the coast? PARKING: Due to the age of the cottages in Irsha Street, there is no on-site parking. However, residents can load/unload shopping and passengers outside before parking.Free on-street parking can be found nearby (25 yds away), linked by a small public footpath adjacent to the cottage. 3 Pay & Display car parks - 2 are 160 yards away, the 3rd is 800 yards away. All offer hourly, daily and weekly parking or you can purchase a tourist permit online. (This can be used in other Torridge district car parks). Please contact me for prices.The Quay car park offers parking free of charge 6pm-8am. Blue Badge holder bays are available as well as charging facilities for electric vehicles.
There's space for all your family and friends in Marine Court. This fantastic holiday home in Ilfracombe sleeps up to 20 people in eight ensuite bedrooms, including 2 family suites with interconnecting rooms. There's a kitchen designed for group catering, a large living and dining room with your own personal bar, and a games room with pool table. You're only a short walk from beaches, shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as Ilfracombe harbour and the South West Coast Path. Local attractions include the Milky Way Adventure Park, RHS Gardens Rosemoor and Exmoor National Park. Marine Court is ideal for celebrating a milestone occasion, hosting a family reunion, or holidaying with friends.
Weare Cottage is a beautiful, clean and spacious, family friendly cottage. Tucked away in a quiet village with a dining pub at the end of the lane and just a short 15 min drive to the stunning coastline and long sandy beaches of North Devon, there's plenty to do in the area for all ages. The traffic-free Tarka Cycling Trail runs alongside the village leading you to the coast. Bideford, Torrington, Appledore and Instow are all nearby for shopping, eating out and sightseeing.
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.
Surrounded by gorgeous countryside, fantastic walking and cycling routes and just a short drive to beaches such as Croyde, Woolacombe, Saunton and Westward Ho!, a holiday at Upper Tallet really does have something for everyone. Located a ten minute drive from Barnstaple, this first floor holiday home sleeps six guests in three bedrooms and has a hot tub located on a private patio. Enjoy days on the beach, exploring Exmoor National Park or simply sit back and relax in beautiful surroundings.
Ocean View Penthouse is a superb beachfront property in Woolacombe. Sleeping four people in two bedrooms with two bathrooms, it has fantastic views up and down the coast of North Devon and a layout that is ideal for couples, families or friends. You are steps from the beach and a short walk from cafes, bars and shops. Walk along the South West Coast Path to Barricane Bay, Grunta Bay or Mortehoe, or spend your days surfing and sunning yourself beside the water. There is a wide choice of attractions to suit all ages, from theme parks to gardens, to make this an excellent year-round holiday destination.
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.
Enjoy amazing views from the private deck of this superb one-bedroom holiday apartment in Lynton. Coachman's Quarters is part of the character Lynton Cottage Seaview Apartments, a short walk from shops, tea rooms, pubs and attractions. It's ideal for couples who want to make the most of the coastal location within the Exmoor National Park, providing comfortable accommodation over three floors with a well-behaved dog also being welcome. This area is perfect for walking, with the South West Coast Path, Coleridge Way, Tarka Trail, and Two Moors Way all meeting on Lynmouth's promenade. Coachman's Quarters is available for bookings all year round.
Escape to the romance of The Shepherd's Shed, a charming glamping shepherd's hut within walking distance of The Castle Inn and village shop in Landkey, and close to Barnstaple, North Devon beaches and Exmoor National Park. Guests can sleep happily in the cute hut with a double bed and cosy log burner, surrounding themselves with stunning views and a garden that includes an outdoor hot tub and covered barbecue area. The Shepherd's Shed is ideal for a holiday in any season, being warm and welcoming to couples and solo travellers, including those with a dog.
Hen House is a spacious holiday home in a quiet location close to Exmoor National Park and only 10 minutes from Bideford. The dog-friendly, ground-floor property sleeps two people in one bedroom and has superb views from every room except the bathroom. It boasts a big sun deck with sun loungers and an outdoor hot tub, while indoors is kept cosy in winter with a log burner. North Devon beaches like Westward Ho! and Croyde are only half an hour away, and Ilfracombe, Appledore, and Lundy Island are also within easy reach.
This spacious, first-floor apartment has uninterrupted views over Instow beach and estuary. It comfortably sleeps up to five people in three lovely bedrooms, with a layout that works for families and friends. Westward Ho! and Exmoor National Park are only a few miles away, and there are endless miles of footpaths and cycling routes including the South West Coast Path and Tarka Trail. Surfing, sailing, swimming, horse riding, golf and fishing are all favourite activities, with local attractions including The Big Sheep, RHS Rosemoor and Hartland Abbey.
Combe Martin boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Devon, with a dramatic coastline and a location on the edge of the Exmoor National Park. This spacious holiday cottage is within walking distance of the beach, pubs, shops and cafes, and within easy reach of some of the area's favourite sights and attractions. It sleeps up to six people in three comfortable bedrooms, with an open-plan living space and a private patio and garden. Seaweed is ideal for families and friends who love walking, cycling, and spending time at the seaside.
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?
