Nestled in the heart of East Devon, Honiton is a charming market town that offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Known for its rich history and unspoiled surroundings, Honiton is a hidden gem for those seeking somewhere tranquil where they can enjoy a leisurely trip. Because it is a great place for discovering the real Devon countryside experience, Honiton is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to give slow tourism a go.

Firstly though, what is slow tourism?

Simply put, slow tourism is an alternative to more mainstream holidays. It is a way of being more sustainable, while still doing all the usual things you would expect from a break to East Devon. Slow tourism is a movement that promotes a more authentic engagement with your destination, a chance to enjoy local culture, history, food and a rejection of mass consumption. Honiton’s quiet nature, reliance on local producers and focus on tradition, makes it an ideal location for anyone wanting to try out slow tourism.

Slow tourism works alongside eco tourism, allowing you to enjoy new destinations without leaving an impact on the local environment.

What are some of the benefits of slow tourism?

Slow tourism helps reduce carbon footprints, focuses on travelling out of season and to less populated places, which is great news for destinations and for travellers.

How to enjoy slow tourism in Honiton

One way to enjoy slow tourism is to indulge in local produce, Honiton, like most of the towns and villages in East Devon are proud of the quality of their food and drink. Here you can stop by cosy cafes and stock up on local fare at the regular farmers’ markets for a real farm to table experience.

You can also experience a slow tourism trip by attending local events and embracing the region’s culture. The Honiton Show is always worth a visit, while the Beehive provides plenty of entertainment throughout the year.

Want to plan your own slow tourism experience for 2025? Here are our top tips:

  • Travel mindfully
    Opt for public transport where you can or walk and cycle to reduce your carbon footprint. Honiton has a train station, which connects you to other mainline stations across the county, or make use of the bus service and local walking and cycling routes. While in Honiton, you can also visit nearby places, like Sidmouth and other surrounding areas.
  • Stay local
    Rather than going for a brand-name hotel, stay local by choosing a self-catering cottage or a local business, which will give you a chance to really experience day to day life in the town.
  • Support local
    Where you can, make sure to buy from local businesses, for instance, by visiting markets and independent cafes. Again, this gives you a chance to experience a real taste of the town and is more sustainable.