Discover West Devon: England’s Wildly Wonderful West Side

Welcome to West Devon—where misty moors meet storybook villages, and the cream tea debates are very real

Tucked into the heart of South West England, this slice of Devon is a quirky, charming blend of wild nature, historic gems, and locals who can out-nice just about anyone. If you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out. If you have been, you’re probably already planning your next trip. Let’s unpack why.

Dartmoor National Park: The Heart of Devon’s Wild Heritage

First things first—Dartmoor. The crown jewel, the drama queen, the windswept soul of West Devon. Dartmoor National Park isn’t just a bunch of pretty hills and roaming ponies (although it does have both in droves). It’s a prehistoric playground full of tors, stone circles, and legends that'll make you question every twig snap you hear on a hike.

Feeling adventurous? Get lost—safely—in the vast moorland or try a ghost walk in one of the park's many ancient sites. Feeling lazy? Just sit on a rock, eat a scone, and pretend you’re in a Jane Austen adaptation.

Tavistock: Market Town Royalty

If Dartmoor is the wild cousin, Tavistock is the posh aunt with impeccable taste. This UNESCO World Heritage town is old-money Devon—full of historic architecture, cosy cafes, and a banging pannier market that dates to the 1100s. Yes, really.

You’ll find everything from hand-thrown pottery to artisan fudge—and no, you won’t leave empty-handed. Don’t miss the ruins of Tavistock Abbey and the elegant walk along the River Tavy. And if you hear about a festival, go. Tavistock knows how to throw a party.

A white, castle-like tower with crenellations stands against a bright blue sky, the sun creating a halo effect. A car is parked on the grassy hill below.

History and Culture of West Devon

Step back in time in West Devon—explore historic towns, ancient sites, and timeless traditions.

A serene waterfall cascades down a moss-covered cliff into a tranquil stream, surrounded by lush greenery and scattered autumn leaves, evoking calm.

Hidden Gems

Discover West Devon’s hidden gems—from White Lady Waterfall to wild swimming and quiet Dartmoor…

A vibrant street scene with colorful pennant flags strung between gray stone buildings under a bright blue sky. People and parked cars line the street.

Towns & Villages

Let’s take a scenic tour through the must-visit towns and villages in West Devon.

Nourish Festival celebrates 10th Anniversary with free-entry event

What's On

Discover what's on in South and West Devon! From music festivals and food markets to family fun and…

Cream Teas and Pub Grub: The Real Local Culture

Let’s be honest: people come for the scenery, but they stay for the carbs. West Devon serves up everything from old-school pubs with roaring fires to twee tearooms that make you feel like you’ve walked into a Victoria sponge.

You will be asked whether you want your cream or jam first. (Say “jam first” if you want to make the locals happy; say “cream first” if you want to start a food war.)

Oh, and the ale. So much delicious local ale. You’ll want to hike just so you can justify the pie and pint that follows.

Villages That Look Like Film Sets

Ever wanted to walk through a postcard? Try Lydford, Bridestowe, or Mary Tavy—tiny hamlets with names that sound like Jane Austen side characters and views that scream “film me”. Lydford even has a gorge and a castle. Because why have just one historic landmark when you can double down?

The pace here is blissfully slow. It’s perfect for wandering, photo-snapping, and pretending you’ve ditched modern life for a cottage with questionable Wi-Fi and an excellent garden.

West Devon is where the map ends and the adventure begins

This isn’t polished, postcard-perfect England—it’s untamed, windblown, and built for explorers. One minute you’re scrambling over ancient tors on Dartmoor; the next, you're navigating hidden trails or uncovering ruins older than most countries. It’s where legends lurk in the mist, every hike feels like a quest, and even the cream teas taste like a reward. If you’ve got a spirit for the wild (and maybe a slightly reckless streak), West Devon’s got your next story.

Ruins of an ancient stone castle sit atop a grassy hill under a clear blue sky. Bare tree branches frame the scene, evoking a sense of history and solitude.