Visit North Devon & Exmoor

Whether you are planning a spontaneous day trip, a weekend break by the sea or a longer holiday, North Devon is packed with unforgettable places to explore and things to do. One minute you are wandering through a colourful harbour town with an ice cream in hand, the next you are standing on a clifftop looking at stunning scenery.

From the golden beaches of Woolacombe, Croyde Bay and Saunton Sands to the dramatic coastline around Hartland and the peaceful estuary villages of Appledore and Instow, every corner of North Devon feels a little different. Some people come for the surf and salty sea air, others for countryside walks and cream teas that somehow always end with a pub garden.

Families can enjoy traditional seaside holidays with sandy beaches, rock pools and family attractions, while walkers and nature lovers can explore hidden coves, wildlife-rich headlands and scenic routes along the South West Coast Path. Known for some of the best surfing conditions, stunning beaches and relaxed coastal lifestyle, North Devon is one of the UK’s top surfing destinations attracting surfers of all abilities.

Those of you looking for a Dog Friendly holiday will quickly discover that North Devon is basically one big tail-wagging paradise, with miles of dog friendly beaches, scenic walks and welcoming places to stay. And when you feel like escaping the coast for a while, the landscape opens into rolling countryside, hidden valleys, traditional villages and the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park.

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure, relaxing beach days, luxury accommodation or a peaceful rural escape, North Devon offers something to enjoy in every season.

Things to Do in North Devon and Exmoor

There is no shortage of things to do in North Devon, making it an ideal destination whether you are planning a family holiday, romantic escape or active outdoor break. You can spend your days surfing, cycling and walking the coastline, or slow the pace right down with scenic drives, independent shops, traditional villages and countryside views.

Exmoor National Park sits right on North Devon’s doorstep, offering spectacular walking trails, wildlife watching, peaceful moorland and some of the darkest skies in Europe for stargazing. Along the coast, historic villages like Clovelly provide a glimpse into the region’s maritime past, while museums, gardens and heritage attractions help bring local history to life.

For families, North Devon is packed with opportunities to get outdoors and make memories together. From rock pooling and sandcastle building on award-winning beaches to wildlife parks, adventure attractions and boat trips, there is always something new to discover. Attractions such as The BIG Sheep, Milky Way Adventure Park and Exmoor Zoo are perfect for family days out, whatever the season.

Places to Stay in North Devon and Exmoor

Place to stay in North Devon are just as varied as the scenery, which means you can stay exactly the way you want to holiday. Whether that’s waking up to sea views and salty air, relaxing in a countryside cottage or enjoying a family break close to the beach, there is something to suit every kind of escape.

You might choose a luxury hotel for a special getaway, a traditional bed and breakfast in a harbour town or a self-catering cottage where you can come and go at your own pace. If you are looking for a fun family holiday then you’ll love the holiday parks near the coast, especially those with pools, entertainment and easy beach access.

Couples looking for a slower pace  or romantic getaway can unwind in boutique guesthouses, spa retreats and countryside lodges.

If you are bringing the dog along too, North Devon is full of dog friendly places to stay and campers and glamping lovers are equally spoilt for choice, with campsites, safari tents and shepherd huts tucked away across the countryside and along the coast.

Food and Drink in North Devon with Local Produce and Coastal Flavours

Food and Drink in North Devon is all about relaxed coastal dining, fresh local ingredients and memorable places to eat with a view. Whether you are enjoying fish and chips by the harbour, a country pub after a walk on Exmoor or a sunset dinner overlooking the sea, food always feels part of the experience here.

From traditional Devon cream teas and freshly caught seafood to artisan bakeries, local farm shops and award-winning restaurants, North Devon is packed with flavours that reflect the landscape around you. Many cafés, pubs and restaurants work closely with local farmers, fishermen and producers, giving visitors a real taste of the region throughout every season.

Explore the North Devon Countryside and Coastal Landscapes

Exploring the towns and villages of North Devon is one of the best ways you can experience the region’s unique character and coastal charm. From harbour towns and fishing villages to peaceful countryside communities, every place offers something different.

Coastal favourites such as Ilfracombe, Appledore and Westward Ho! are perfect for wandering colourful streets, browsing independent shops and enjoying harbour views, while you will love the seaside spots like Croyde Bay and Woolacombe offer laid-back beachside atmosphere.

Further inland, market towns including Barnstaple and Bideford combine local food, historic charm and riverside scenery,  and villages around Exmoor provide a quieter escape, scenic views and traditional Devon hospitality.

Exmoor National Park is easily accessible but feels wonderfully remote once you arrive. Its mix of moorland, wooded valleys, rivers and rugged coastline creates a distinctive landscape. It is ideal for walking, wildlife spotting and scenic drives, as well as stargazing under some of the darkest skies in England.

Explore the North Devon Countryside and Coastal Landscapes

Beyond the beaches, North Devon is home to rolling countryside, quiet valleys and picture postcard villages. Walking and cycling routes weave through farmland, woodland and river valleys, offering a slower way to explore the region. The South West Coast Path provides breathtaking views and connects many of North Devon’s most iconic locations.

Whether you prefer gentle countryside walks or longer coastal routes, the landscapes of North Devon offer space, tranquillity and natural beauty in every season.

Discover Exmoor National Park Near North Devon

Exmoor National Park is easily accessible from towns and villages across North Devon and feels wonderfully remote once you arrive. Its mix of moorland, wooded valleys, rivers and rugged coastline creates one of the most distinctive landscapes in the country.

Exmoor is ideal for walking, wildlife spotting and scenic drives, as well as stargazing under some of the darkest skies in England. The park offers a quieter, wilder contrast to the coast, making it a perfect addition to any North Devon holiday.

Plan Your North Devon and Exmoor Holiday

Whether you are planning a family holiday, a romantic break or an outdoor adventure, North Devon and Exmoor offer something for every type of traveller. With stunning scenery, welcoming towns and villages, and a wide range of activities, it is a destination that rewards repeat visits.

Start planning your trip today and discover why North Devon and Exmoor remain one of the UK’s most loved holiday destinations.