We know that we sound biased when we tell you that Devon is the best place for a staycation, so we’re hoping that by telling you about some of the most popular locations according to TikTok, it will strengthen the argument!
Back in the summer, the team at Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays have revealed the most popular Devon landmarks according to TikTok and Instagram by analysing the number of tagged photos and views, as well as the views for almost 500 landmarks across the county to reveal the ten most popular. You might not have had the chance to experience them during the summer holidays, so we thought we would offer our suggestions to help you plan the perfect visit to each of these ten places during the October half term.
Whatever season you choose to visit, you’ll find that each of these places are worthy of their popularity on both Instagram and TikTok!
10 – Beer Village
9,560 Instagram photos | 465,000 views on TikTok
Beer is a lovely little seaside village in East Devon, it has a strong fishing heritage and if you visit, you’ll be able to see the boats coming in and out throughout the day. It is also along the Jurassic Coast (which also features on the list!) and has been named as one of the UK’s best picnic spots.
If you want to visit Beer, you’ll find some lovely B&Bs to stay in and it is home to Pecorama – one of Devon’s leading visitor attractions. Pecorama is where you will find the famous PECO Model Railway Exhibition and Beer Heights Light Railway and there are some glorious views across the Lyme Bay from the top.
9 – Exeter Quay
29,130 Instagram photos | 457,600 views on TikTok
The whole city of Exeter is worth a visit, but the quay area is a must, especially if you’re a foodie or want to hop on a paddleboard. Known as Devon’s capital, Exeter is a vibrant and historically fascinating place to be, with plenty of hotels, eateries and attractions to keep you entertained. If you’re planning a trip, why not book a stay at the Devon Hotel? Which is on the edge of the city, giving you a great option for exploring the city. Of course, Exeter Cathedral is a must, there are over 1000 years of history to explore and the Green offers a lovely place to stop and recharge or pick up one of the many city tours. For those of you wanting something a bit unique, have a go at axe throwing with the Celtic Tossers or enjoy some history at the nearby National Trust Killerton estate.
8 – Exmoor National Park
83,479 Instagram photos | 738,600 views on TikTok
Located in North Devon and spanning both Devon and Somerset, the Exmoor National Park is beautiful whatever the season. The park is home to the iconic Exmoor ponies and herds of feral mountain goats among other wildlife and is a haven for walkers and explorers alike. There are loads of lovely little towns and villages across Exmoor, each offering places to stay and things to do. Exmoor Zoo for instance will give you the chance to meet some of the world’s endangered animals.
7 – Babbacombe
34,307 Instagram photos | 1,200,000 views on TikTok
You’ll find Babbacombe in the English Riviera near Torquay. Babbacombe Downs is the highest cliff top promenade in England, providing amazing views. Many people like to visit Babbacombe during their stay in Torquay, but if you want somewhere quieter, book a stay with the Cary Arms and Spa which sits right on the seafront at Babbacombe. While you’re there, make sure to stop off at Babbacombe Model Village, which is famous for their glorious gardens and for being one of the premier model villages in Europe.
6 – Braunton Burrows
7,165 Instagram photos | 1,500,000 views on TikTok
As Britain’s largest sand dune system, it is hardly surprising that Braunton Burrows made the list. It also happens to be in the North Devon AONB and forms part of the region’s UNESCO Biosphere because of the variety of plant and wildlife that call the burrows home.
This part of Devon puts you right on the North coast which recently became the UK’s first surf reserve and is a haven for those that love water sports. You’ll find lots of cute cottages to rent in this area, like those looked after by Marsdens Devon Cottages and the dog and family friendly Saunton Beach villas.
5 – Tunnels Beaches
7,456 Instagram photos | 1,700,000 views on TikTok
As one of the most popular spots in Ilfracombe, this one isn’t much of a surprise either. The Tunnels Beaches are a feat of Victorian engineering, featuring incredible hand carved tunnels leading through to glorious beaches and a tidal swimming pool. You’ll find the beaches near Ilfracombe and we would recommend a trip to the town’s Fore Street where you’ll find a host of eateries and of course, you have to visit Verity in the harbour.
4 – Wistman’s Wood
8,853 Instagram photos | 4,300,000 views on TikTok
Located on Dartmoor, (which you’ll find below!), Wistman’s Wood is a hugely atmospheric place to visit and really does help you understand why so many myths and legends come from this part of the county. Close to the woods and providing a lovely base on the moor is Two Bridges Hotel which is famous for its afternoon teas and beautiful grounds. Another property nearby that will give you plenty of chances to explore Wistman’s Wood is Tor Royal B&B, a B&B that sits on an auspicious farm that was once where the royal stud breeding programme took place.
3 – Dartmoor National Park
178,865 Instagram photos | 7,300,000 views on TikTok
With lots of history, the Dartmoor ponies, tors to explore and a host of myths and legends, Dartmoor is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit. You’ll find plenty to keep you entertained here from mountain climbing to hiking and letterboxing. You could also visit the beautiful Buckfast Abbey or make friends with some cute creatures at Otters and Butterflies. There are lots of country house hotels, cute cottages, B&Bs and even Yurts to stay in too – find options here.
2 – Powderham Castle
14,802 Instagram photos | 14,600,000 views on TikTok
Powderham Castle is one of the region’s best loved attractions. It has so much to see and do, that visitors can even return for free another day to fit it all in. Though Powderham Castle operates as an attraction, activity centre and concert venue, it is also a family home and has been the seat of the Earls of Devon for over 600 years!
1 – The Jurassic Coast
456,193 Instagram photos | 37,100,000 views on TikTok
Spanning 95 miles in total, the Jurassic Coast covers the east of Devon and into Dorset. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with around 185 million years worth of history to uncover. Depending on where you visit, you can see how the rocks change and age depending on their colouring and you might even be lucky enough to find a fossil or two! In Devon, the Jurassic Coast falls within the towns of Exmouth, Sidmouth, Seaton and the village of Beer (which we mentioned above) so there are plenty of places for you to choose from as your base and lots of attractions to visit during your stay. Exmouth is one of Devon’s oldest seaside resorts and is where you can pick up a Stuart Line Cruise trip to explore the coastline from a whole new view. In Seaton, you have Seaton Tramway and Sidmouth features a host of beautiful regency hotels, like the Belmont Hotel, Victoria Hotel and the Royal York and Faulkner Hotel. It’s also where you’ll find several of Sweetcombe Cottages’ properties!
Looking for more suggestions of things to do while you’re stopping off at these places? Click here. You can also follow us on Instagram and TikTok!
