Cities, Towns & Villages in Devon
Did you know that Devon has 77 different towns and villages? Each one has an abundance of unique reasons to visit, so no two trips to Devon are the same! Devon’s unique golden coast includes many picturesque towns and villages and a few hidden gems. Whether you are a resident of Devon or here on your holidays, there are beautiful towns and villages in abundance for you to explore. With two historic cities, vibrant market towns and enchanting villages full of culture, history and charm.
Diverse towns and villages
Towards the north of the county, you’ll find market towns such as Barnstaple and Bideford and beautiful coastal towns like Ilfracombe, as well as places of historical importance, like South Molton, one of North Devon’s oldest towns. There are some beautiful fishing villages to explore as well as quant market villages and larger towns offering an expanse of shopping, food and drink and history and heritage too. You can enjoy chocolate box cottages, breath-taking views, stunning churches and a raft of waterways.
For the Jurassic Coast and the incredible sites of the east Devon Natural Landscape (AONB), base yourself in coastal towns like Beer, Seaton, Sidmouth, Exmouth or Budleigh Salterton, while towns like Axminster offer great markets and Ottery St Mary is the home of Devon traditions, like Tar Barrell Rolling and the annual Pixie Day.
Mid Devon is full of fascinating places, like the historic Bovey Tracy and the Tiverton Canal. Tavistock, Crediton and Honiton all have a wealth of accommodation options, as well as great attractions and food and drink choices and can be found in this region. Many of the towns and villages here are gateways to Dartmoor, so base yourself in Ashburton or Okehampton to have access to the national park.
Britain's Paradise
No trip to Devon is complete without heading south into the English Riviera. You’ll find some of the best sea food in the country in Brixham, while Totnes and Dartmouth are great spots for shopping for quirky items. Take a trip to Dawlish, Teignmouth and Torquay to follow in the footsteps of Agatha Christie and visit Paignton for the famous zoo or its neighbour, Newton Abbot. Kingsbridge is a delightful little town with plenty of charm whereas Moretonhampston brings the history and Salcombe has great coastal walks.
There are 7 rivers that run through Devon and many of our beautiful villages sit close to these rivers. The history and heritage that can be found in all of Devon’s towns and villages will leave you spellbound and wanting to explore even more.
Devon’s towns and villages are always filled with colourful characters and most of the businesses will be able to tell you a tale or two about the amazing things to see and do while visiting. There are a huge amount of events that take place across this picturesque county and you can enjoy the community spirit, local camaraderie and Devon’s experience the wonderful food and drink, much of which will have been produced in Devon.
Our highlights...
Discover more Devon
Get into the festive spirit at Buckland Abbey’s Great Tudor Frost Fair display
- 3 minute read
On Saturday, 2nd December, the medieval Great Barn at the National Trust’s Buckland Abbey, near Plymouth opens its doors for Christmas 2023 with an immersive Tudor Frost Fair display. The Great Tudor Frost Fair in the Great Barn has been inspired by the incredibly cold winters in the 16 th and 17 th…
Learn MoreBuckfast Abbey Unveils Phase II of The Green Hub- Gardens & Crafts
- 2 minute read
Buckfast Abbey is thrilled to announce the completion of Phase II, unveiling the opening of the Crafts section within The Green Hub - Gardens and Crafts initiative. This newly launched Crafts section is envisioned as a dynamic social hub where local artists can engage with curious visitors, offering…
Learn MoreChristmas at the Castle is BACK, with the special gift of a sign-language grotto
- 2 minute read
Powderham Castle, a historic gem nestled in the heart of South Devon, is set to transport visitors to a winter wonderland with the return of its highly-anticipated Christmas at the Castle event, which this year sees the introduction of a BSL Christmas grotto. As part of this magical celebration…
Learn MoreDashing Through the Snow to Your Favourite Devon Attractions!
- 11 minute read
The nights are long and dark, and the days are sometimes gloomy so we all need a big dose of Christmas cheer to brighten our days and evenings. Devon’s Top Attractions are aglow with festive lights, fabulous grottos, friendly Santas, nativity scenes, animals warm in deep straw-lined stables, busy…
Learn MoreSpend Christmas at Lydgate House
- 3 minute read
Looking for a magical stay in Devon this Christmas? Look no further than Lydgate House's festive offerings. Their three night Christmas Experience is the perfect way to relax and enjoy a truly special and unforgettable Christmas celebration. Our hotel will be adorned with tasteful decorations…
Learn MoreThe Box unveils a 2024 exhibition programme
- 7 minute read
The Box unveils a 2024 exhibition programme featuring significant partnerships with National Portrait Gallery, Tate, National Gallery and Imperial War Museums. The Box, Plymouth’s award-winning museum, art gallery and archive, has revealed an ambitious exhibition programme for 2024. It includes…
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