What’s on this summer in Devon

If you’re visiting North Devon this summer, prepare for an adventure, it isn’t known as England’s Adventure Coast for nothing! North Devon falls within the UK’s first surf reserve, has the wilds of Exmoor and a host of amazing attractions and activities all over the region.

One of the best-loved family-friendly attractions in the region, RHS Garden Rosemoor is a wonderful place to visit in the summer. Not only do you have the incredible seasonal plants, but there are a host of family friendly activities going on through the summer months too. The Great Garden Adventure with Shaun the Sheep is running until the 1^st September and features family trails and even a chance to meet Shaun himself! You can also join in the Education Team for their Summer Stomps and Woodland Wednesday.

Image: RHS Rosemoor

Over the August bank holiday, The Big Sheep are hosting their Summer Music Festival, featuring tribute shows and a DJ set from Chris Moyles. Not around for the bank holiday, there’s still plenty of fun and games to be had at the Big Sheep!

If you’re visiting South Devon this summer, you have your pick of some of the most popular resorts in the UK. The English Riviera, which covers towns like Torquay and Paignton have been well loved for centuries, while the South Hams area, which features places like Salcombe is famous for its beautiful beaches.

Further south there is Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City with its history and culture – South Devon is a beautifully diverse place to visit.

Close to the Cornwall border is Tamar Trails, an activity centre based along the banks of the River Tamar. This summer, they are holding guided canoe trips for the whole family. With their canoe safari, you can see the region’s wildlife in a whole new way, visit the Cotehele Estate and enjoy something a little different.

If you’re in Plymouth, stop off at The Box, the city’s museum, gallery and archive. It’s a fascinating place to visit, with a rotating programme of exhibits and several family friendly events taking place all year around. Over the summer there are several workshops and activities, including their Family Fun series. The National Marine Aquarium are also in Plymouth and offer plenty of fun for the whole family. Throughout the summer you can enjoy everything from rockpooling to snorkelling.

Image: National Marine Aquarium

At Woodlands Family Theme Park, you have the chance to meet your favourite characters this summer, with Peppa Pig, Bluey and Chase from Paw Patrol making appearances. Titan robot performances and dinosaur-themed days are also taking place throughout August – so whatever you’re into, you can find something that suits you here!

For a party, head to Dartmoor Zoo for their Summer Celebration, which is celebrating 10 years of the zoo having charitable status. Running until 1^st September, there are lots of opportunities to get involved this summer. Or make time to visit Torre Abbey in Torquay. This heritage attraction has lovely gardens, including a slightly more dangerous section dedicated to local author Agatha Christie! On 31^st August, they are hosting their free Summer Fair, with crafts, stalls, entertainment and more – perfect for celebrating an excellent summer together!

The East Devon area is home to the Jurassic Coast, as well as the city of Exeter. There are miles of countryside to explore and beautiful coastal walks and that’s before you even begin to look at the attractions and activities on offer.

Conveniently located just off the motorway is Crealy – one of the best loved theme parks in the south west. Over the summer holidays, as well as the usual rides and excitement, you’ll also be able to enjoy their epic High Dive Show! Plus, during the summer you can even visit for a second day for free!

In Exeter, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum is always a popular choice for families. With free entry and plenty of exhibits to enjoy, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. There are a host of additional workshops and activities including the Imaginarium, Lego workshops and a host more!

Seaton Tramway have several fun rides and adventures taking place over the summer from their Seaton and Colyton stations. Join Story Tram for a chance to visit new worlds, or Dinosaur Tram for a Jurassic adventure.

There’s also a  whole programme of events taking place at Pecorama throughout the entire six weeks. Based in Beer, a visit here will also let you explore the South West Coast Path and the pretty beach.

Image: Crealy Theme Park 

If you’re not a fan of the beach and prefer to spend your time immersed in the countryside, you need to visit Mid Devon. Home to Tiverton’s Grand Canal as well as easy access to a host of beaches and the two National Parks, this is a nature lovers' dream.

Located in the Culm Valley are Coldharbour Mill, one of the oldest woollen mills in the UK. It’s been in production since the 1790s and is a working museum, offering a fascinating insight into textile production over the years. Over the bank holiday weekend, they are holding a Summer Steam Day, where you can see steam engines in action. If you’re feeling creative, don’t forget to check out the Nature Fibre and Heritage Craft Festival which is also running through the summer holidays.

Every summer National Trust properties around the UK, offer family friendly events and those in Devon are no exception.

You can find the Summer of Play taking place at properties around Devon, including:

• Buckland Abbey
• Castle Drogo
• Killerton
• Coleton Fishacre
• Saltram
• Greenway
• Arlington Court 
• Knightshayes

Looking for more ideas of things to do over the summer? Click here!