Spend a summer of fun in Devon

One of the best things about Devon is the incredible wildlife, in the summer, you’re likely to spot dolphins and porpoises frolicking in the bay, particularly in South Devon and the English Riviera and if you head to places like Exmoor and Dartmoor, you can spot the iconic ponies and even herds of mountain goats and highland cows.

Across Devon, you’ll also find a host of fascinating animal attractions allowing you to get up close and personal with a variety of exotic creatures.

Celebrating their 100^th anniversary this year is Paignton Zoo, which you can find in the English Riviera or there is Dartmoor Zoo for those of you elsewhere in the county. Pennywell Farm offers the chance to meet cute animals and enjoy a selection of farm related activities, while Little Orchard Alpacas allows you to hang out with a herd of alpacas!

One of the animals Devon is famed for is its otters, so why not visit some at Otters and Butterflies?

Devon isn’t known as Mother Nature’s playground for nothing! If you’re someone who loves being outdoors and exploring the wilderness with adventure activities, this is the place to be. Skern Lodge in North Devon offers a range of activities throughout the year including watersports, climbing and more – there is even more going on through the summer holidays, all in beautiful surroundings.

Elsewhere in the county there is the Tamar Trails. With a network of woodland trails, bike hire, canoe excursions and a Tree Surfers course – so lots to do here all within the Tamar Valley, which is a stunning part of the world.

If you’re in Tiverton, you have to stop by the Tiverton Canal Co. where you can find one of the only remaining horse drawn barges in the UK. Not only do you have the canal’s walkways to explore but also a range of activities.

For something more gentle, spend a day at Canonteign Falls. Set in 90 acres of park and woodland, Canonteign is a must see, it’s the highest waterfall in Dartmoor National Park and gives you somewhere to enjoy the fresh air with a gentle stroll. RHS Rosemoor in North Devon offers a variety of activities for children through the summer holidays, as well as lots of nice walks to enjoy around enchanting gardens. Or join one of Stuart Line Cruises’ voyages around the Jurassic Coast and English Riviera – it’s the best way to experience the coastline.

Learn more about Devon’s history by visiting some of the region’s best loved historical attractions. You can travel on a steam train and enjoy a scenic ride at South Devon Railway. Above Beer village in East Devon, you can visit Pecorama, home of the famous PECO Model Railway Exhibition and Beer Heights Light Railway, both are great options for a historical day out. Alternatively, there are a host of castles, stately homes and other heritage attractions to be found across the county, you can find out more here.

Looking for something to get the blood pumping? Woodlands Family Theme Park is Devon’s largest family theme park, there are additional activities throughout the site, as well as huge watercoasters, 10 play zones and a zoo farm to keep you entertained. If water parks are your thing, Splashdown Quaywest is the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark and can be found right on the beach at Goodrington Sands in Paignton.

For something a little different, why not head to Exeter and have a go at axe throwing? The Celtic Tossers’ sessions start from just £15 and you have an introduction from a master so you get the very best axe throwing experience.