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 South Devon offers a beautiful coastline and expansive countryside giving you unspoilt greenery, gorgeous beaches and picturesque villages.
Wonderful Food & Drink
This area of Devon has some fantastic places to eat and drink and the residents are very proud of their local produce, from seafood to fruit and veg, locally produced beers to soft drinks. South Devon’s fantastic food and drink can be sampled in the many wonderful cafés, pubs and restaurants which can be found in the towns and villages throughout the region.
Where to Stay
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 nights stay, including family-run B&Bs, rustic cottages, luxury boutique hotels, chalets and caravans.
Attractions and Adventures
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, cycles 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.
Great for Shopping
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.
A Unique Venue Setting
With great road and rail links as well as a regional airport South Devon is an ideal choice for your corporate event, team building exercise or venue hire. For conferences, business meetings and staff training days there are purpose built conference centres and interesting venues which will give your meetings a real wow factor. The area provides the perfect backdrop for your special day and there are plenty of wedding venues dotted around the region. From historical castles, luxury hotels to unique venues you’re sure to find a celebration setting that suits you and your partner’s style.
South Devon AONB
The South Devon 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.
Our Highlights...
South Devon Events
'Flow' Art Exhibition
Dive into our latest exhibition, Flow. Inspired by water, the selected works are a wide range of…
Beyond the Page: South Asian Miniature Painting and Britain, 1600 to Now
'Beyond the Page' includes a fantastic selection of historic works featuring battle scenes…
Blubell Walk
Springtime in Devon brings with it a spectacle that stirs the soul—the return of the bluebells…
Carlsberg Open
Carlsberg Golf Open Teams of 2 Breakfast and Carvery included
ELO Again
ELO AGAIN are back with their stunning 'Re-Discovery Tour' celebrating the truly universal…
Festival of Blossom at Greenway
From magnolias blooming overhead to an abundance of fruit trees and wild hedgerow flowers, the…
Gruffalo Party Trail
Celebrate Gruffalo's 25th birthday on a brand new forest adventure Haldon Forest…
John Akomfrah: Arcadia
10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays Experience the UK premiere of a major new…
Mixed Team Open
Mixed Team Golf Open Teams of 4 28th July Best two scores to count Food before and after
Ocean Todds At The Aquarium
JOIN OUR OCEAN DISCOVERY RANGERS ON TUESDAY & FRIDAY MORNINGS, AND DISCOVER YOUR LOVE FOR THE…
Planet Ocean
10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays (not open on Good Friday or Monday 27 May 2024)…
Pogo Presents: The Cabarats
★ Pogo Presents: The Cabarats ★ Ska / Eastern-European / Reggae / World An unorthodox quintet on a…
Snorkel At The Aquarium
For the first time, guests are able to experience the aquarium like never before. Climb into the…
The Carys: From Rebels to Riches
Created by the South West Heritage Trust and Torre Abbey the exhibition showcases items from the…
Yinka Shonibare CBE RA: End of Empire
Commissioned by 14-18 NOW, 'End of Empire' features two dapper figures with globe heads on a…
A Night From The Smoker
This unique event showcases the art of smoked cuisine, presenting a variety of dishes that are sure…
Blossom Week
Immersing yourself in nature, even briefly, can help with the stresses of daily life. Join us at…
Blossom Week at Coleton Fishacre
From the apple trees on arrival to the show stopping ornamental cherry trees in the garden, the…
Jack & The Beanstalk - P!ssed Up Panto
The Ultimate Adult Panto is back – and this year it's the turn of Jack and the Beanstalk to get…
Piggies & Prosecco Evenings
The Ultimate Experience for Pig Lovers! This exclusive event is for grown-up Pennywell Farmers only…
See more from South Devon on our blog
Experience Tranquillity and Luxury at Compton Pool Holiday Cottages in South Devon
- 3 minute read
Nestled amidst the serene countryside of South Devon lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – Compton Pool Holiday Cottages. Set within 14 acres of picturesque landscape, this idyllic retreat offers a perfect blend of tranquillity, luxury, and outdoor adventure, making it the ultimate…
Learn MoreFinalists announced for South West Tourism Excellence Awards
- 2 minute read
Tourism businesses from across Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall have been named as Finalists in this year’s South West Tourism Excellence Awards. The news follows an awards process which started in April 2023, with nearly 500 entries submitted, a…
Learn MoreRomantic things to do in Devon this Valentine’s Day
- 3 minute read
Looking for something to do with your significant other over Valentine’s Day? There are a host of fun events and activities taking place throughout the week, from the big day itself to the weekend. If you’re spending time at the Dartmoor National Park, you’ll never be too far from romantic sights…
Learn MoreEnjoy the great outdoors and local history – all in one place!
- 3 minute read
The Osborne Apartments is the resort for all seasons – located within a grand crescent that has been standing since the 1840s, a stone’s throw from one of the most popular beaches for water sports and set within one of the English Riviera’s most vibrant towns, The Osborne Apartments has everything…
Learn MoreAction-Packed February Half Term at Devon's Top Attractions!
- 9 minute read
Devon’s Top Attractions open up their doors to welcome visitors back for the half term break. There is plenty of indoor fun to keep all family members entertained no matter what the winter weather. With the varied range of attractions, there is an activity for everyone including creative craft…
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