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.
Read more
Mornacott Farmhouse is a beautifully refurbished property in the peaceful Devon countryside, accommodating up to 14 guests. Guests have access to an onsite swimming pool, sauna, games room and sports field, in addition to a network of footpaths which cross the wider estate.
When you stay at 1, Out of the Blue, you do not have to waste any time driving to the beach because it is just outside the front door! The contemporary holiday property has fantastic views of both the beach and Baggy Point, and is in an enviable location next to Croyde Beach, within walking distance of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. There is an excellent variety of activities to try all year round, from learning to surf, to walking along the coastal path, cycling the Tarka Trail, playing golf or shopping in towns like Barnstaple and Ilfracombe. With space for up to eight people, it is an ideal choice for families and friends who love being close to the beach.
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
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.
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.
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.
In an enviable position nicely sandwiched between Dawlish and Starcross in South Devon, this charming holiday cottage is just a two minute drive from the beautiful sandy beach. Sleeps two to six persons, prices for 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6 persons.
Hele Lane Cottage is a delightful thatched holiday home by the river in the depths of the beautiful countryside of Mid-Devon. An ideal self-catering base to explore this interesting and beautiful part of the South West with Dartmoor and Exmoor within easy driving distance and all the right ingredients to simply relax amongst nature.
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.
An idyllic retreat for large groups of up to ten in a tranquil country setting just four and a half miles from Tavistock and within easy reach of Devon's many attractions including Dartmoor National Park. Ideal for a holiday with friends or family with an outdoor heated pool (May - Oct), and a big garden. Heaps of charm, lots of space and modern conveniences.
Gather your favourite people at Fletchers Combe Farm—your own private Devon estate. Exclusive hire of the Grade II-listed farmhouse and L-shaped barn: 11 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, two kitchens and multiple lounges (both with wood-burners). The Barn Tallet dining room seats 16, with space for an extra table up to 22 for celebratory feasts. Outside, sink into hot tubs, spark the Weber BBQs and firepits, let kids roam play areas, and paddle in the wild-swim/boating pond. Marquee-ready lawns, private catering & DJs welcome, no close neighbours, and walks across our 100-acre cattle farm with streams and copses. Quiet valley base—5 mins to main routes, 12 mins to the A38 for Dartmoor and beaches.
Pelham at Pitt Farm is a spacious six-bedroom holiday cottage in South Devon sleeping 12 guests and furnished to appeal to large families or groups of friends. Located near Kingsbridge and Salcombe, and a short drive from Bantham and Bigbury beaches, it’s ideally placed for exploring the South Hams. The cottage has a private garden with swings, BBQ area, and balcony views, and guests enjoy access to excellent shared facilities including an indoor pool, tennis court, playground and games barn and your very own woods to explore.. Whether you’re planning beach days, coastal walks or time to relax together, Pelham offers comfort, space and a warm welcome in a stunning rural setting.
Martingale at Pitt Farm is a large dog-friendly holiday cottage in South Devon, sleeping up to 12 guests across five flexible bedrooms. With living spread over three floors, it’s perfect for large families or groups, offering plenty of space to socialise and unwind. The private BBQ terrace, secure garden, and valley views make outdoor living a joy. Located near Kingsbridge and East Allington, and just a short drive from Bantham, Bigbury and other South Hams beaches, guests also enjoy access to Pitt Farm’s indoor pool, tennis court, playground and games barn – ideal for a UK family holiday in Devon.
Kimblewick at Pitt Farm is a spacious five-bedroom holiday cottage in South Devon, sleeping 9 across flexible accommodation ideal for families and mixed groups. Set beside the indoor pool with a secure garden and private BBQ terrace, it’s the perfect base for a Devon holiday. Guests enjoy full use of Pitt Farm’s fantastic facilities – from a games barn and playground to a tennis court and woodland walks. Located in the South Hams near Kingsbridge and East Allington, and just a short drive from Bantham and Bigbury beaches, Kimblewick combines comfort, space and location for a fun-filled UK family getaway.
Kineton is a four-bedroom upside-down self-catering holiday cottage near Kingsbridge in South Devon, sleeping eight guests plus a cot. Rated Four Star Gold, the cottage has spacious upstairs living areas with high ceilings and countryside views, and four comfortable bedrooms on the ground floor. Guests enjoy full use of Pitt Farm’s indoor swimming pool, tennis court, woodland play areas, zip wire and games barn. Located near Salcombe, Dartmouth and South Devon’s top beaches, Kineton is family-friendly, baby-friendly and well-suited to group or multi-generational holidays. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Mullen is a spacious three-bedroom self-catering cottage at Pitt Farm in the South Hams, South Devon, sleeping seven guests plus a cot. With a private walled terrace, large kitchen and sociable living spaces, it’s a great choice for families or multi-generational groups. Guests have full access to Pitt Farm’s outstanding facilities, including an indoor pool, games barn, tennis court and adventure playground. Located near Kingsbridge, Salcombe and Bantham, Mullen is close to South Devon’s beaches and attractions. Family-friendly, baby-friendly and ideal for group bookings, it offers both privacy and connection within a beautifully maintained countryside setting.
Snaffle is a four-bedroom self-catering holiday cottage at Pitt Farm in the South Hams, sleeping six guests plus a cot. Set in peaceful South Devon countryside near Kingsbridge and Salcombe, the cottage features a private garden, newly fitted kitchen, and full access to Pitt Farm’s indoor swimming pool, tennis court, zip wire, and games barn. Families return again and again for the outstanding facilities and easy reach of beaches like Bantham, Bigbury-on-Sea and Hope Cove. Snaffle is ideal for a family holiday or multi-generational break, with baby-friendly amenities, spacious living areas and a sociable but private layout. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Cavasson is a five-star one-bedroom self-catering cottage at Pitt Farm in South Devon. Ideal for couples or parents with a baby, the cottage offers stylish, well-equipped accommodation near Kingsbridge, Salcombe and the South West Coast Path. Guests enjoy full access to Pitt Farm’s family-friendly facilities, including an indoor heated pool, games barn, tennis court and daily animal feeding. Beaches such as Bantham, Bigbury-on-Sea and Hope Cove are all within easy reach. Cavasson is baby-friendly, peaceful, and perfect for a relaxing getaway in the South Hams, with the option to book other cottages onsite for group or multi-generational stays. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Corncott is a luxurious couples’ retreat in North Devon set within the historic Old Mill on the award-winning Millbrook Estate near Umberleigh and Barnstaple. This romantic holiday cottage for two combines character features with modern comforts, including exposed beams, a king-size bedroom suite with freestanding bath, and a beautifully equipped kitchen with Emma Bridgewater crockery and Villeroy & Boch cutlery. Guests can wander woodland paths, relax in the wood-fired sauna, book the secluded woodland hot tub or spend serene evenings beneath dark, star-filled skies. With beaches such as Saunton Sands, Instow and Woolacombe within easy reach, Corncott offers a memorable North Devon escape for couples. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
High in the rafters of Millbrook's 18th-century corn mill, The Loft is a romantic hideaway for couples in North Devon. Five-Star Gold rated and entirely private, this top-floor retreat has soaring ceilings, a Laura Ashley king-size bed dressed in Egyptian cotton, a bespoke kitchen, and a window seat where the view across the lake and 32-acre estate stops you mid-sentence. The deep bath and rainfall shower are made for lingering. Outside, the gardens, woodland trails, hot tub and woodland sauna are all yours to enjoy, with fishing on the lake for those who'd rather slow the day right down. Tucked away in peaceful countryside but within easy reach of High Bickington and the beaches of North Devon, The Loft is somewhere to wake to birdsong, watch the estate turn golden at dusk, and simply breathe out. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
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:
Search within South West England
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?
