Father’s Day is fast approaching and as it falls in June, one of the busiest months in Devon, we thought it best to get a head’s start, so you and your father figure don’t have to deal with Father’s Day fomo when things get fully booked.
There is loads of fun to be had in Devon, so here are a couple of suggestions to keep you all entertained during your visit.
For the dads that love the simple pleasures in life, there are fewer things better than a pasty and a pint, and as the pasty is actually a Devon creation, despite what our friends over the border like to claim, so why not treat your dad to a pint and a pasty the Devon way – on a boat! Stuart Line Cruises are offering a Father’s Day Pasty and Pint Cruise where you and the father figure in your life can enjoy a gentle sail along the River Exe or Devon’s beautiful eastern coast and enjoy an award winning Devon pasty and a pint. With a wide range of dietary requirements catered for and a heated lower deck, they are covered for all eventualities, even a dismal summer’s day!
As you might expect from the West Country, cider is plentiful around Devon, so why not find a local cider or brewery tour where he can not only taste local brews but also create his own? It isn’t just cider and beer on offer either, head to Plymouth Gin for a truly unique experience. Not only is Plymouth Gin Distillery is the oldest working distillery in England, where they have been making the gin according to the original recipe since 1793, but is a great opportunity to find out more about one of the UK’s most enduring spirits. The tour takes you through the whole process, including a visit to the still house and the tasting room. There is even a tour offering the chance to create your very own hand crafted gin to take home.
Drinking isn’t for everyone, but if your dads are anything like ours, then a foodie activity is a great option. With cookery classes where you can get involved together, tasting sessions and more available across the region, this can be another great gift experience. Alternatively, just take him out for a meal – either book his favourite place or take him somewhere special for a real surprise.
Bistrot Pierre have restaurants in Plymouth and Torquay. The Torquay branch overlooks the bay and is a stylish and relaxing place to enjoy sea views and amazing French style dishes that are freshly prepared every day by their chefs. There is really something for everyone including gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. The Plymouth one can be found in the historic Royal William’s Yard which is a great place to visit, even if you don’t stop for lunch. It’s full of historical buildings and is the epicentre of Britain’s maritime heritage. Bistrot Pierre is the best place for enjoying true French food and drink which is great value and of course, delicious!
Another option is the Ivy Exeter where you can find British classics, Asian inspired cuisine and a fantastic range of dishes, where there is something for everyone to love. The restaurant can be found in the city centre’s shopping district, making it easy to find and with its laid back atmosphere is ideal for anyone looking for something special without any pressure.
If your dad is the kind of man that enjoys being active, then Devon truly is the place to be – with adventures suitable for every age and ability, whether he is a walker, a cyclist, a mountain climber or a surfer, there are activities galore here for the perfect Father’s Day. For those of you who want a choice, take a trip to the Tamar Trails where you can experience everything from walking and cycling to canoeing. As well as the onsite routes, where you can even hire bikes and other equipment, there is Canoe Tamar with their guided tours taking you on a scenic trip along the River Tamar and Tree Surfers where you can challenge each other to a host of tree top activities including Tarzan swings, zip lines and more. If you find yourself in North Devon, make sure to visit Skern Lodge where there are a range of activity options. The site is great for families for those of you travelling together and even offer a range of family friendly packages so everyone can get involved.
One of Devon’s biggest draws is its golfing connections and with one of the oldest courses in the country located here, it’s no wonder so many golf enthusiasts like to book trips. There are plenty of opportunities to spend a day out on the range, but for those who want something a little more special, why not book him a golfing holiday? There are several hotels with their own courses and others who offer golf stays with discounts at nearby courses. In North Devon, Highbullen Hotel Golf and Country Club offer both golf and tennis breaks and there are several accommodation options, so you can find one that best suits you. Highbullen is well placed for visiting some of the region’s most popular attractions too, like the Exmoor National Park where there are a host of walking and cycling trails to explore.
Alternatively, near Dartmoor is the Manor House and Ashbury Hotels. A complex like no other, there are sport and craft facilities throughout making it a great location for an activity break. The two hotels provide an unrivalled range of sport, craft, leisure, sport and golf facilities Here you’ll find 101 golf holes, a putting green and spa and craft facilities.
Fishing is also a big deal in Devon, so if your dad is looking for something calming and relaxing, make sure to book him a trip to the Arundell on the Devon/Cornwall border which is famous amongst flyfisherman for its incredible fishing experiences. Whether he is a novice or a pro, everyone can enjoy fly fishing here, the site’s ghillies are experts and there are skilled teachers available for anyone wanting to learn more. You can even hire all the equipment you could need!
Devon is full of National Trust properties and other historical sites that offer amazing day’s out. One option is Saltram with its miles of parkland, gardens and a secret gardens, as well as a house full of treasures. Another is Castle Drogo, one of the youngest castles in the UK or Buckland Abbey, the former home of Sir Francis Drake, is also open for visitors.
Don’t forget, you can treat your father figure all year around – it doesn’t have to be on Father’s Day! Nestling on the edge of Newton Abbot is Newton Abbot racecourse, which is conveniently located along the A380 and has a host of thrilling summer activities, so even though you might not be able to visit on the big day, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy a day at the races.
Looking for more fun Father’s Day activities? Make sure to keep an eye on our what’s on pages for the latest events to help you plan your Father’s Day trips.
