Rolling green hills, winding coastal roads, seaside towns, and award-winning food, Devon was made for road trips. Whether you’re planning a long weekend, a family adventure, or a slow journey through both moors and coast, 2026 is the perfect year to discover everything Devon has to offer.

Here’s your ultimate guide to planning a Devon road trip! Routes, must-see spots, and insider tips to make every mile unforgettable.

1. Choose Your Devon Route

Devon’s beauty lies in its variety. You can go coast-to-coast in under three hours, but why rush when every turn brings something new?

The Coastal Explorer (South Devon to North Devon)

Start in Dartmouth, meander through Salcombe, Totnes, and Dartmoor, then head north to Woolacombe and Ilfracombe for beaches and sunsets.

Highlights:

  • Dartmouth Harbour & Castle
  • The Slapton Sands drive (one of England’s most scenic coastal routes)
  • Dartmoor’s moorland tors and wild ponies
  • Woolacombe Bay and Croyde’s surf scene

The Wild Devon Loop (Moor to Sea)

For nature lovers, start in Exeter, loop through Dartmoor National Park, and finish in Sidmouth or Exmouth on the Jurassic Coast.

Highlights:

  • Dartmoor’s Haytor and Widecombe-in-the-Moor
  • The Two Bridges Hotel (perfect for a lunch stop)
  • Sidmouth’s red cliffs and Connaught Gardens
  • Exmouth beach walks and local seafood

The Family Coast Crawl (Beach Lovers’ Route)

If you’re travelling with kids, stick to the coast and pack your days with beach stops and seaside towns.

Route: Start at Torquay, move through Teignmouth, Exmouth, Beer, Branscombe, and finish at Seaton or Lyme Regis.

Highlights:

  • The English Riviera’s beaches
  • Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth
  • Fish and chips in Beer village
  • Seaton Tramway for a classic family ride

2. How Long Do You Need?

A weekend road trip gives you a flavour, but to do Devon properly, allow 5–7 days. That gives time for both coasts, a moorland detour, and plenty of cream tea stops.

Pro tip: Plan shorter daily drives (no more than 90 minutes), Devon’s winding lanes are charming but can be slow-going.

3. Where to Stay

Devon’s accommodation scene is tailor-made for road trippers:

  • Seaside hotels in Sidmouth, Ilfracombe, or Salcombe
  • Country inns near Dartmoor and Exmoor
  • Eco lodges and glamping for those chasing adventure
  • Family-friendly cottages along the South Hams

Book early for summer 2026! Devon’s popularity continues to soar for UK staycations.

4. Where to Eat Along the Way

Devon is a foodie’s dream, from fine dining to farm shops.

  • Salcombe – fresh seafood by the water
  • Totnes – organic farm-to-table dining
  • Westward Ho! – sea views and local fish
  • Sidmouth – perfect for a coffee stop with a view

Don’t forget the essentials: a proper Devon cream tea (cream first, obviously), and a local cider or gin tasting session.

5. Insider Tips for a Smooth Trip

  • Avoid the A30 at peak times – scenic B-roads are slower but prettier.
  • Pack layers – coastal weather can change fast.
  • Support local – buy from farm shops and independent cafés en route.

6. Bonus: Devon’s Most Scenic Drives

If you’re short on time, add at least one of these to your itinerary:

  • Dartmoor’s B3212: misty moorland views and grazing ponies.
  • North Devon’s A39 (Atlantic Highway): dramatic cliffs and sea vistas.
  • Sidmouth to Beer coastal drive: Jurassic red cliffs and ocean panoramas.

Plan Your Devon Road Trip for 2026

Whether it’s coastlines, countryside, or cream teas that call you, Devon delivers a road trip like nowhere else. Pack your bags, charge your camera, and start planning your 2026 adventure today.