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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A tranquil cottage based on the southern slopes of Dartmoor National Park, 3 miles from Buckfastleigh one way and Holne / Dart valley in the other. A spacious, detached cottage with a stunning conservatory; It is private and secluded, surrounded by well-planted gardens with sunny terraces and lookouts over fields to the Tors of Dartmoor. The cottage is off a quiet no-through, surrounded by farmland and within 300 meters of the open moor but is within easy reach of many local attractions.
This pretty holiday cottage is in the tiny hamlet of Cudlipptown, in the heart of Dartmoor National Park within walking distance of a popular country pub and only a few miles from the lively market town of Tavistock. It is the perfect destination for a romantic escape with countryside walks on the doorstep and miles of national park to explore on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. Plymouth and Exeter are both within easy reach, as are beaches at Bude and Wembury.
A two-minute walk from the beach, shops, cafes and pubs, Belle Vue is a fantastic self-catering apartment in Woolacombe that sleeps four people in two rooms. It has storage for surfboards, bikes and wetsuits and a private parking space - all those important extras that will make your seaside holiday even more relaxing and stress-free. Spend your days on the sand at Woolacombe, or venture around the coast to nearby Croyde or Mortehoe with lovely towns and pretty villages to explore, this is a great holiday location for couples or families all year round.
Picture post-card pretty, this delightful thatched self catering holiday cottage is ideally placed in the picturesque coastal Devonshire village of Thurlestone with its pub, village shop and two beaches. Sitting in the popular South Hams area of Devon, there are an abundance of attractions within easy reach as well as fabulous beaches and superb coastal and countryside walking. Perfect for family holidays or celebrating a special occasion with friends.
Stylish and modern throughout, this single level holiday home is a golfers, walkers and beach lovers dream. Saunton's 36 hole course and superb sandy beaches are close by, and there is a good choice of shops and restaurants, as well as the Tarka Trail within walking distance. Perfect for relaxing or visiting the many attractions and beaches of North Devon.
Daisy Cottage at Bolberry Farm Cottages is ideally located on the South Devon coastline in the peaceful hamlet of Bolberry, just a mile from Hope Cove, half a mile from Bolberry Down (NT) and within easy reach of Malborough, Kingsbridge and Salcombe. A perfect self-catering base for exploring the many attractions of the South Hams.
Clover Cottage is designed for relaxing family holidays. The charming mid-terrace property is only a mile from Hope Cove and close to both a friendly pub and the South West Coast Path. It is part of the gorgeous South Hams area of South Devon, within reach of Dartmoor National Park and places like Malborough, Salcombe and Totnes. The cottage sleeps up to five guests in three bedrooms and is dog-friendly. It's available to book on its own or together with one or two of the other holiday homes at Bolberry Farm Cottages, so is also perfect if you're planning a holiday with friends or your extended family.
Buttercup Cottage nestles prettily between the country and the sea, a mile from Hope Cove and the friendly Hope and Anchor Pub. The two-bedroom cottage sleeps up to four people and is child and pet friendly, perfect for families but also comfortable for couples or friends. South Milton Sands, Bantham Beach and South Sands in Salcombe are only a few miles away, as are Malborough, Totnes and Dartmouth. Walking, cycling and surfing are all popular ways of having fun, and with Dartmoor National Park within easy reach, there is no end to the opportunities for exploration and adventure.
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
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.
Two stylish spacious holiday lodges each sleeping up to four guests with their own private hot tub, nestling in a tranquil valley setting amongst beautiful Mid-Devon rolling countryside. A haven for wildlife, Morrells Valley Lodges provide the perfect setting for relaxing and an ideal base for exploring Devon with the Blackdown Hills, Exmoor, Dartmoor and both the north and south coasts within easy driving distance.
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 Rattles 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.
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
Enjoy the best of the coast and the countryside in this lovely bungalow. Lansdowne Park is situated on a quiet street in the lively market town of Totnes (just 10 minutes walk from the town centre!), offering visitors a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Dartmoor National Park, South Hams beaches and the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There is ample opportunity for walking, cycling, sailing, surfing and a wealth of other sports, as well as sightseeing and places to eat, drink and shop. The bungalow offers comfortable self-catering accommodation all on one level and is perfect for couples.
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.
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.
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.
** Summer short breaks available from 4 nights minimum stay - full details on owner’s website, or contact owner for price **. On the edge of Okehampton and less than an hour from both the north and south coasts of Devon, this gorgeous barn conversion is a favourite holiday rental all year round. It can sleep up to four people in two lovely bedrooms, and is ideal for couples, friends or families with older children. The wealth of local footpaths and cycling routes make it easy to enjoy Dartmoor and the surrounding countryside, while its idyllic location on a non-working farm affords guest the peace and privacy they crave.
This beautiful cottage on the edge of Dartmoor is less than two miles from Okehampton and within easy reach of shops, cafes and pubs as well as favourite attractions like Adventure Okehampton and the Museum of Dartmoor Life. It is perfect for couples or for two friends travelling together as the superking bed can be made up as a twin. Pets are also made welcome here. Dreamcatcher is on a non-working farm in a peaceful location with no passing traffic. It dates back to 1840 and started life as a cow shed before being lovingly transformed by the current owners into a gorgeous cottage with a bespoke kitchen, log burner and underfloor heating.
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?
