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

LOVE BUGS Jan 25

LOVE BUGS

Using mini puppets made by the children, interactive storytelling and song, the audience will follow…

Making It 2025 Jan 25

Making It 2025

As part of their 70th Anniversary events, MAKE Southwest presents Making It, an exhibi-tion which…

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