Things To Do in West Devon

Tucked between the wild expanse of Dartmoor and peaceful river valleys, West Devon is a region where natural beauty and rich history meet outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions. From moorland hikes and ancient ruins to woodland trails and hidden gems, West Devon is packed with activities to suit every kind of traveller. Whether you’re planning a relaxing countryside break or an action-packed escape, there’s always something to explore.

Moorland Walks & Scenic Trails

West Devon’s most iconic landscapes are found within Dartmoor National Park, offering endless opportunities for walking, hiking, and cycling. Explore granite tors, prehistoric stone circles, and wide open commons where Dartmoor ponies roam freely.

Follow the Granite Way, a stunning route perfect for walkers and cyclists alike, with panoramic views over Dartmoor’s rolling hills and wooded valleys. For a more leisurely stroll, riverside footpaths and wooded trails offer peaceful moments of reflection and connection with nature.

Explore History & Heritage

West Devon is a living time capsule. Its landscape is dotted with ancient ruins, Saxon churches, and relics of Bronze Age settlements. Stroll through centuries-old market towns with cobbled lanes, stone bridges, and parish churches steeped in history.

Visit hillforts perched on dramatic ridgelines, or trace the steps of medieval pilgrims on long-distance routes. Throughout the region, you’ll find reminders of Devon’s rural past and its close relationship with the land.

Attractions for All Ages

This corner of Devon offers a surprising variety of activities and attractions beyond its natural beauty. Discover countryside heritage centres, wildlife-rich nature reserves, art galleries, and seasonal events that celebrate rural life and culture.

Families can enjoy outdoor discovery trails, woodland play areas, and interactive exhibits at local heritage spots. In and around Dartmoor, you’ll also find hidden follies, ancient quarries, and moorland viewpoints that double as natural playgrounds.

Adventure in the Great Outdoors

West Devon is perfect for those who love to get active. Go wild swimming in moorland rivers, try cycling through woodland paths, or paddle along quiet waterways in a canoe. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting buzzards, deer, and rare butterflies across diverse habitats from heathland to wetland.

In the evenings, the low light pollution makes West Devon an ideal place for stargazing. Bring a blanket and marvel at the constellations from a quiet hilltop or moorland clearing.

Family-Friendly Escapes

If you’re travelling with children, West Devon offers plenty of space for young adventurers to roam. Climb tors, hunt for wildflowers, or play hide and seek in ancient forests. There are also educational nature trails, hands-on exhibits at historical sites, and scenic picnic spots for refuelling in the fresh air.

Seasonal activities like wildlife spotting, kite flying, and den building help families make lasting memories in one of Devon’s most naturally inspiring settings.

A Destination for Every Season

• Spring: Fresh blooms, lambs in the fields, and gentle walking weather.

• Summer: Perfect for river dips, longer hikes, and scenic picnics.

• Autumn: Crisp air, golden foliage, and quiet trails.

• Winter: Dramatic skies, frost-covered tors, and peaceful moorland solitude.