If you’re planning to spend half term in North Devon this February and are wondering how to fill your itineraries, here are some of our suggestions for top things to do with the family.
Of course, a visit to North Devon is a visit to the UK’s adventure coast – with plenty of surfing opportunities and outdoor pursuits, as well as glorious beaches to explore during your holiday. There are plenty of options, especially if you’re travelling on a budget, but that’s not all the region has to offer.
If you’re up for testing your skills on the water but you don’t quite want to take on the ocean until the warmer months, spend a few hours at the North Devon Wake Park. Just ten minutes from the coast and easily accessible from Bideford, Barnstaple and the surrounding towns, the North Devon Wake Park gives you the chance to challenge yourself, learn new skills or brush up on old ones in their aquapark. Not only do you have the chance to try out paddleboarding, wakeboarding and more but there is also the inflatable waterpark full of slides and trampolines. It is perfect for all ages and abilities!
For more outdoor adventures, check out Skern Lodge. Situated on the edge of Appledore, there are a range of activity options throughout the year but there are a host more during the school holidays. With everything from bodyboarding, assault courses, zip wires, kayaking, climbing and more, there are even childcare options if the adults want to have an adventure of their own.
Other options for adventures include The Big Sheep, a fun, all weather attraction for the whole family. With beautiful parkland, theme park rides, performances and shows and the magic of a real farm, the Big Sheep has something for everyone. Also, their range of rides are suitable for toddlers, young children, older kids and parents. There is also the Milky Way Adventure Park, an award winning theme park suitable for all ages and abilities. During the school holidays, there are additional events and activities, so every visit is different.
Kids will love getting up close and personal with some of the animals that call North Devon home. From the feral goats and ponies that live on Exmoor to those at farm and animal attractions all over the region, there are lots of animals just waiting to be your friend.
In Combe Martin there is the Wildlife and Dinosaur Park where you can not only find a host of exotic and rare animals but even some extinct ones! Or if you’re into your marine wildlife, take a look at the wonders on offer at Ilfracombe Aquarium. Full of local exhibits displaying over 70 species that can be found nearby to those from further afield, there are lots of things to learn about the sea here. Plus, the kids can enjoy fun trails and complimentary quizzes.
Just because you’re having fun doesn’t mean you can’t learn something, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the UK’s only fully water powered railway and having been in the town since the 1800s is a great way to teach the kids about times gone past. It’s a family attractions suitable for all ages and even dogs!
Looking for more things to do this half term when in North Devon and Exmoor? Check out suggestions of things to do here.
