Explore South Devon
Want to escape the stresses of daily life? Whether it’s for a day trip, weekend or longer, South Devon is the place for you.
Full of activities and attractions, it’s the perfect place for romantic getaways, sightseeing or keeping the kids entertained. This area of Devon offers a beautiful coastline and expansive countryside giving you unspoilt greenery, gorgeous beaches and picturesque villages.
Top beaches in South Devon
- Bantham Beach
- Bigbury on Sea
- Blackpool Sands
- Dawlish Warren
- Hope Cove Beach
- Slapton Sands
Top places to visit in South Devon
Where to stay in South Devon
One great way to experience South Devon is to be at one with nature, this region offers some of the best camping and caravan sites in the South West, but if roughing it isn’t your style, there are also a range of options without sacrificing the great outdoors, such as yurts and glamping.
The exciting accommodation options don’t end there though; South Devon has hundreds of places to choose from for a perfect night's stay, including family-run B&Bs, rustic cottages, luxury boutique hotels, chalets and caravans.
Top places to stay for families:
Top places to stay for couples
Things to do in South Devon
Once you’ve found yourself somewhere to stay, you’re going to want to get exploring and find things to do, and this part of the region has plenty to offer.
With glorious countryside and a stunning coastline it’s easy to find some great scenery to explore, from secret coves, sandy beaches and the South West Coast Path to miles of footpaths, cycle routes and bridleways, as well as nature reserves, The South Devon Natural Landscape (AONB) and Dartmoor National Park.
With a region that has such a rich history there is no end of historical sites and heritage attractions to keep even the biggest history buffs happy. If you have little ones to entertain there are animal encounters, adventure parks and children’s crafts centres that will provide days of fun for the whole family to enjoy.
Top places to explore history in South Devon
- Totnes
The market town is not only a Bohemian shopping paradise but is home to a castle and the Brutus Stone - Plymouth
Visit Royal William Yard, the Barbican and other areas of this historic city and see where the Mayflower set sail - Bigbury on Sea
Check out Burgh Island and ride a sea tractor! - Dartmouth
Home to Dartmouth Castle, which was once home to a pirate!
Our Highlights...
Shopping in South Devon
South Devon is a great destination for shoppers. Not only can you browse traditional market towns such as Newton Abbot and Kingsbridge, you can also take a trip to Totnes, one of the oldest towns in England, which is full of local arts and produce. In the coastal towns of Dartmouth and Salcombe you’ll find a whole range of independent shops, art galleries and trendy brands. But fashion junkies need not miss out either, in addition to the diverse selection on offer, South Devon boasts superb high street shopping.
Or how about some retail therapy in Plymouth?
South Devon Natural Landscape (AONB)
The South Devon Natural Landscape (formerly known as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) is one of 46 specially designated areas of outstanding natural beauty in the UK and sits alongside a number of other designated areas in the county of Devon.
The area stretches over 130 square miles of coastline, estuaries and countryside reaching from Berry Head in Brixham to Jennycliff in Plymouth. The region is known for its fabulous views and the quality of its walking routes. You can find details of these trails and information about the AONB here.
South Devon Events
'Blooming' Art Exhibition
Join us in embracing the arrival of spring with 'Blooming', an artisan craft exhibition…
All Aboard for Easter Adventures on the South Devon Railway
This April, South Devon Railway is inviting families and railway enthusiasts alike to celebrate…
Big Dino Easter Egg Trail
Get ready, intrepid adventurers—something big, scaly, and prehistoric is heading your way this…
Easter Bun-anza!
Come rain or shine, Dartmoor Zoo have you covered this Easter with fun activities from Saturday 12th…
Easter egg hunt at Coleton Fishacre
This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Coleton Fishacre on an Easter trail…
Easter egg hunt at Greenway
This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Greenway on an Easter trail. Make…
Easter Egglow
Step into the enchanting depths of Kents Cavern this Easter and experience a one-of-a-kind…
Easter Family Fun at House of Marbles
Discover a Roar-some Adventure this Easter! Prepare yourself for a truly memorable Easter at the…
Easter Glass Chick Workshop | 19th & 21st April
Create Charming Easter Keepsakes Together A Fun and Creative Easter Experience Looking for a fun and…
Easter Holiday Fun at Pennywell Farm!
Don't miss out on the EGG-STRAVAGANZA at Pennywell Farm this Easter Holidays! Your visit will be…
EGG-STRAVAGANZA at Pennywell Farm
Join us this Easter Holidays for this egg-celent event where there are thousands of chocolatey…
Family Easter Trail at Buckfast Abbey
Both events are free, find out more below: Easter Trail - (available in the Abbey Church) Uncover…
Far Horizons
Far Horizons – Works of Ian Brooks 19th April – 31st May Launch 18th April…
Festival of Blossom at Coleton Fishacre
Celebrate the Festival of Blossom at Coleton Fishacre from 20 March – 30 April. From the apple trees…
Festival of Blossom at Greenway
Celebrate the arrival of blossom at Greenway between 20 March – 30 April. From magnolias blooming…
Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit
Join Wallace and Gromit for the ultimate forest walkies Bond with your pooch by taking on dog-tastic…
Glass Bird Workshop | April Sessions
Craft Your Own Vibrant Glass Bird Create a Treasured Keepsake Step into the captivating world of…
Glass Flower Workshop | April Sessions
Sculpt Nature's Beauty in Glass A Bloom That Lasts Forever Step into the enchanting world of…
Glass Heart Workshop | April Sessions
Shape a Heart That Speaks to You A Heartfelt Masterpiece Let your creativity flow and sculpt a…
Glass Trio Workshop | April Sessions
Create Three Stunning Glass Pieces Exceptional Value, Unforgettable Creations Join our Glass Trio…
Also in South Devon...
As it has been known as a family friendly holiday resort since Victorian times, it is no suprise that the English Riviera remains one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK.
Explore Britain's Ocean City: Plymouth