Complete our short survey below to enter our free draw, and be in with a chance of winning a luxury two-night stay in award winning accommodation in Devon.
Whatever you’re looking for in an autumn or winter getaway, Devon has everything you need. Whether it’s a weekend reconnecting with nature or experiencing the area’s foodie delights, discover your perfect trip, including things to do and places to stay, right here… From crisp countryside walks to festive events and storm-watching on the coast, autumn and winter in Devon provide the perfect backdrop for a restorative break.
Autumn in Devon: Crisp Air and Seasonal Colour
By October, Devon’s landscapes shift into autumn mode. Woodlands across the county, from the Teign Valley to the fringes of Dartmoor, put on a reliable show of colour. It’s a good time for walking with clear skies and fewer people on the trails. Popular routes on Dartmoor and Exmoor become more peaceful, and coastal walks feel fresh without the summer crowds.
This is also the season for local food and harvest traditions. Farmers' markets pick up with autumn produce, including apples, game meats, and cheeses. Many communities host harvest fairs and bonfire events, with lantern processions and firework displays drawing in locals and visitors alike. It’s a practical way to get a feel for rural life in Devon, beyond the holiday hotspots.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in the off-season tends to be easier to book and often more affordable, making autumn and winter a smart time to visit Devon. Whether you're after peace in the countryside or a comfortable base near the coast, there’s a wide range of options to suit different travel styles.
Rural cottages are a popular choice, making them ideal for walkers, couples, or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. For those who prefer a more hosted experience, traditional B&Bs offer a warm welcome and home-cooked breakfasts
You’ll find many hotels and boutique stays offering open fires, seasonal menus, and spa facilities, ideal for those seeking to combine relaxation with a touch of indulgence.
We're a friendly bunch here in Devon, we love to get together to have fun, share and celebrate - and…
Things to Do in Devon: Autumn Highlights
Wildlife and Stargazing
Devon's landscapes remain active through the colder months. Exmoor and Dartmoor are both National Parks with designated Dark Sky Reserve status, offering some of the best stargazing in the UK. Winter skies tend to be clearer, and with less light pollution, constellations and even the Milky Way can be visible on the right night. Wildlife watchers can spot red deer during rutting season in early autumn, and overwintering birds, such as Brent geese and waders, are a regular sight along estuaries and wetlands. Seals are also commonly spotted along the north and south coasts.
Heritage and Culture in Devon This Autumn
While some attractions wind down after summer, many of Devon’s historic houses, smaller museums, galleries, and heritage centres stay open throughout autumn—often with fewer crowds. This is the perfect time to explore at your own pace, whether delving into maritime history, browsing regional art collections, or uncovering Roman ruins. Autumn also brings a rich cultural calendar, with local theatres hosting touring productions, folk music evenings, and seasonal performances in intimate venues.
Attractions
Many of Devon’s top attractions remain open during the autumn months, offering a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere than in peak season. Family-friendly favourites such as outdoor trails, historic landmarks, wildlife parks, and adventure centres often run special autumn events or seasonal activities. For indoor days, visitors can enjoy aquariums, tropical glasshouses in stunning gardens, or interactive museums—ideal for when the weather turns cooler.
Walking
Autumn is a magical time for walking in Devon. The South West Coast Path provides crisp sea air and sweeping coastal views, while Dartmoor and Exmoor come alive with autumn colour. Misty tors, ancient woodlands, and fast-flowing rivers create dramatic landscapes perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
Enjoy the beauty of Devon this autumn with scenic walks and hikes. Discover coastal paths, woodland trails, and countryside routes perfect for seasonal adventures.
Coast or country, moorland or canal, straight line or circle, there is a wonderful abundance of family-friendly cycle routes in Devon to suit all moods covering everything from 3 to 30 miles.
