Find Culture & Heritage Itineraries in Devon

The Ultimate Devon Heritage Itinerary

Devon offers one of the richest and most varied heritage landscapes in England. From medieval cathedrals and Norman castles to prehistoric moorland sites, Victorian estates, seafaring towns and ancient coastal forts, Devon’s history spans more than a thousand years—and you can experience it all within a compact, easy-to-explore region.

Its blend of rugged Dartmoor landscapes, atmospheric fishing villages, and beautifully preserved market towns creates a heritage journey that feels both immersive and diverse. Add in award-winning museums, UNESCO mining sites, and some of the UK’s best-preserved historic houses, and Devon becomes the perfect destination for travellers who want culture, story, and scenery in one trip.

Day 1 – Exeter & Surroundings (East Devon)

Morning:  Begin your heritage adventure in Exeter Cathedral, taking time to soak up the Gothic architecture, medieval carvings and historic atmosphere. Continue with a guided tour of Exeter’s Underground Passages to uncover the city’s unique medieval water system.

Afternoon: Explore the remains of Rougemont Castle, set into Exeter’s old city walls, then take a short drive to Killerton House to wander its Georgian interiors, landscaped grounds and centuries-old parkland.

Evening: Return to Exeter for dinner in the historic centre, and enjoy a relaxed stroll along the Cathedral Close before settling in for the night.

Overnight: Exeter

Day 2 – Dartmoor National Park & Tavistock

Morning: Drive into Dartmoor, visiting Buckfast Abbey before exploring the wild moorland around Haytor or the village green in Widecombe-in-the-Moor.

Afternoon: Continue to Tavistock, a UNESCO World Heritage town. Visit the abbey remains, riverside walks and the Guildhall area to uncover the region’s mining history.

Evening: Settle into a cosy inn or market-town pub in Tavistock, enjoying a warm meal after a day of Dartmoor scenery and heritage.

Overnight: Tavistock or nearby.

Day 3 – Plymouth & the South Devon Coast

Morning: Head to Plymouth’s historic Hoe to trace maritime legends, visit the Royal Citadel, and wander the cobbled streets of the Barbican.

Afternoon: Explore the Elizabethan House or take a harbourside walk before driving to Totnes. Climb to Totnes Castle for sweeping views over the town and River Dart.

Evening: Relax in Totnes or Dartmouth with dinner in a riverside restaurant, enjoying the laid-back South Devon atmosphere.

Overnight: Totnes or Dartmouth

Day 4 – Torbay & the English Riviera

Morning: Start in Kents Cavern, diving into thousands of years of prehistoric history. Then explore Torquay’s seafront or head to Paignton’s coastal spots.

Afternoon: Continue to Brixham to see the bustling heritage harbour and replica Golden Hind. Round off the day with a visit to Compton Castle, a fortified medieval manor surrounded by orchards and gardens.

Evening: Return to the harbour for a relaxed evening, enjoying fresh seafood and watching the sun set over the colourful fishing boats of the English Riviera.

Overnight: Brixham

Day 5 – Dartmouth & the South Devon Coast

Morning: Arrive in Dartmouth and enjoy a relaxed wander through its historic waterfront, narrow medieval streets and colourful quayside. Take time to explore the town’s maritime past, boutique shops and scenic views along the River Dart.

Afternoon: Walk or take the short scenic drive to Dartmouth Castle, set dramatically at the mouth of the estuary. Explore the 14th-century gun tower, coastal defences and clifftop paths before continuing to the stunning 1920s Arts and Crafts home Coleton Fishacre. Wander through its elegant interiors and subtropical gardens sweeping down to the sea.

Evening: Return to Dartmouth for a final riverside dinner, watching boats drift along the Dart as you round off your heritage journey with classic South Devon charm.

Heritage and Culture: A Long Weekend on Dartmoor

Day 1: Princetown and the Heart of the Moor

Begin your long weekend in Princetown, a thriving centre of Dartmoor history.
Visit the Dartmoor Prison Museum, where intriguing displays and artefacts reveal the story of this famous institution. Afterwards, enjoy a gentle stroll through the village, taking in its distinctive granite architecture and dramatic setting.

Continue to the High Moorland Visitor Centre, home to exhibitions that introduce Dartmoor’s geology, wildlife and cultural traditions. A short wander onto the surrounding moor offers sweeping views that define the mood of your journey.

Day 2: Stone Circles, Tors and Moorland Legends

Dedicate your second day to Dartmoor’s remarkable prehistoric landscape.
Begin at Merrivale, a significant archaeological complex of stone rows, standing stones, and burial remains that reflect early ceremonial life. Then make your way to Postbridge, where the iconic Clapper Bridge spans the East Dart River. This medieval bridge is one of the most admired heritage sites on the moor.

Spend your afternoon visiting Bellever Tor or choose from the list here. These dramatic granite outcrops rise above the moor and are closely linked to local legends. Both offer rewarding walks and panoramic views that bring Dartmoor’s wild character to life.

Day 3: Tavistock’s Market Tradition and Village Charm

End your long weekend in Tavistock, part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Begin at the historic Tavistock Pannier Market, where traders have gathered for centuries. Explore stalls offering regional produce, artisan goods and local crafts that reflect the area’s strong sense of community.

Stroll through Tavistock’s attractive Victorian streets, visit the Guildhall Heritage Centre and follow the riverside path along the Tavy. If time allows, continue to nearby Widecombe in the Moor or Chagford, both celebrated for their traditional architecture, warm hospitality and cultural heritage.