Want suggestions for beauty spots in Devon? Well, we know we’re biased and we also know that it’s difficult to narrow it down, but here are five picturesque places from across the county that are definitely worth a visit this summer.
Lundy Island
With ferries available from Ilfracombe and Bideford, a trip to Lundy Island is a real adventure. There is limited electricity on the island and it is a conservation area, with very few permanent residents, so it’s like a trip back in time! There are a host of adventure activities you can enjoy on the island, with the permission of the Island Manager of course! The real draw though is the wildlife, with South West England’s biggest puffin population, a range of other sea birds and the chance to see dolphins, porpoises and seals in the wild, Lundy Island is a real hidden gem.
Shaldon
Considering Shaldon can be found next to Teignmouth in one of the busiest parts of Devon, it is a surprise that fewer people visit here. The village is full of Georgian era homes, thatched cottages and a lovely, hidden beach which is accessed via an old smuggler’s tunnel. If you’re planning on spending time in the English Riviera or Torbay areas, make sure to add Shaldon to your plans and enjoy a quieter day at the beach.
Heddons Mouth
This one is much more hidden than our previous suggestions as it is a two mile walk from the nearest car park, so it isn’t the most accessible of beaches, but if you can make it, it is well worth the trek. Heddon’s Mouth is a hidden cove that is part of the National Trust and has some of the highest cliffs in England. It’s a lovely place to stop and watch the world go by, take photos for the ‘gram (make sure you tag us so we can see them!) or bird watching.
Holdstone Hill
You’ll find Holdstone Hill on Exmoor and we recommend that you visit this one after dark. While you might think that’s a bit weird (because it is equally as pretty in the day time), this is a great spot for viewing the night sky. Exmoor is a Dark Skies Reserve and Holdstone Hill is one of the recommended viewing spots for seeing the night sky – visiting during the summer often means less cloud, which in turn gives you more of a chance to see galaxies, stars and planets with the naked eye.
Blackbury Camp
Located in East Devon, Blackbury Camp can be found in Colyton, which isn’t too far from Exeter. The very best time to visit is in the spring when the bluebells are out, but the summer time gives you a chance to see a whole other side to this former Iron Age fort. There are loads of lovely little walks around the area and its one of our favourite picnic spots in the region too.
