Enjoy Devon’s countryside with these stays

When you think about Devon, likely your mind automatically goes to the beautiful coastlines – the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage site, the UK Surf Reserve which can be found in North Devon and the picturesque coastal towns along the Torbay and places like Salcombe and into Plymouth. Though we love visits to Devon’s beaches, there is so much more to the county than just the chance to visit the coast – you’ll also find diverse countryside areas, so whether you want to escape to somewhere rural or want to experience the best of both worlds, here are our suggestions for a countryside stay.

A great way to enjoy the countryside is with a farm stay, like those offered by Devon Farms. This gives you a chance to stay on a working farm, where you can enjoy rural communities and enjoy the peace and quiet that comes from a countryside stay. With both bed and breakfast and self catering options available, you can easily find a property that suits you and with their extensive portfolio reaching across the county, you have your choice of locations too!

Mid Devon

For a truly immersive countryside stay, make Mid Devon your base. Being in the middle of the county means you have lots of countryside locations to choose from and you can easily reach both the coast and the National Parks.

For a hotel stay which is conveniently located just off the motorway, take a look at the Tiverton Hotel. From here you are just an hour from the coast if you fancy a day out at the beach, and you are close to all the main attractions and tourist hotspots.

Or if you want a traditional West Country welcome, how about staying in one of the local inns? The Exeter Inn is also in Tiverton, in the Mid Devon region and puts you in a great place for exploring the countryside. It has all the original characteristics of a traditional taphouse, with many of the original features, but is comfortable and provides a friendly, modern stay.

Image: Exeter Inn 

If you want to go at your own pace and enjoy your own space and privacy, there are plenty of self catering options in Mid Devon, including the Orchard Retreat. Consisting of two beautiful holiday cottages with their own secure gardens and among some stunning countryside, this is a great option for anyone wanting a rural escape.

South Devon

Fancy enjoying some countryside pursuits while you’re here? In that case, the Arundell is for you. Set in an old coaching inn on the Devon/Cornwall border, the Arundell hotel and self catering cottage is famous for fishing. With courses available throughout the year and its own fishing lake, this is a popular place for anyone who wants to give fly fishing a go during their stay.

You can find plenty of cute cottages in this part of Devon, including Higher Dinnicombe Cottage, which is near Totnes and forms part of a small holding surrounded by countryside. Or for something a little different but without sacrificing the comfort and privacy, Dittisham Hideaway has treehouses, shepherd’s lodges and an iconic 1950s American airstream to choose from. The site is close to the River Dart where you can enjoy paddleboarding or riverside walks or you can explore the woodland walks around the properties.

Another impressive-looking place to stay is Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa, this Elizabethan building hides a sophisticated interior – there is an onsite spa and a pretty special Afternoon Tea to experience.

Image: Dittisham Hideaway

North Devon

While it is best known for the coastline, North Devon has some wonderful rural areas too, especially around the Exmoor National Park. On the border of the North Devon region is Wheatland Farm, which is the ultimate place to stay for nature lovers – it is set on a nature reserve! If that wasn’t enough of a reason, your home from home are wind powered eco lodges, complete with hot tubs and surrounded by wildlife!

Another option in North Devon is the Mole Resort, which features a Manor House, eco friendly lodges and several leisure facilities. With open countryside as far as the eye can see and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, the Mole Resort is a great place to stay for anyone who loves the great outdoors. From here you easily reach the wilds of Exmoor or spend some time exploring the coast – they’re both within easy reach.

Dartmoor

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the countryside, there are fewer places more wild than Dartmoor. Full of rugged beauty, miles of untouched countryside and of course, those iconic ponies, Dartmoor is somewhere you can relax or have an adventure – there is something for everyone here.

On the banks of the River Teign, is the Mill End Hotel and Restaurant, which offers the perfect country house getaway perfect for walkers. The hotel is close to a number of popular walking routes and caters for families, groups and solo travellers. Alternatively, there is Bovey Castle, which sits within a 275-acre estate on the Dartmoor and has an incredible atmosphere befitting its historic nature. Choose from either self catering lodges or staying in one of the hotel’s rooms and enjoy everything from the onsite spa to the 18 hole golf course, restaurants and closeness to popular spots across the National Park.

Looking for something a little different? Why not stay up in the treetops? Nymetwood Treehouses is set in 20 acres of woodland and has views over Dartmoor. The luxury treehouses sit high in the canopy of the trees providing the perfect hideaway for anyone looking to escape everyday life.

Convinced to book a countryside stay this year? You can find more places to stay across Devon here.