Things To Do in Devon
Visiting Devon gives you access to countryside, coast, ancient ruins, modern shopping centres, incredible festivals and just about everything else you can think of. It’s the perfect destination for families, couples, groups and business trips – whatever you’re looking to do during your stay, you’ll find a whole host of attractions and activities all over the region.
For the adrenaline seekers among you, Devon is one of the best places for climbing, white water rafting, horse riding and a variety of other white knuckle activities to challenge and excite you. For those of you wanting something a little more gentle, you can spend time exploring the south west coast path, or the many walking and cycle routes in the area. From indoor to outdoor activities, there really is something for everyone here.
Kick back and relax
If your idea of bliss centres around being somewhere calm and quiet where you can enjoy tranquillity and peace in pretty surroundings – Devon is the destination for you. You can spend time on one of the glorious beaches sunbathing, walking along the sand or exploring the hidden coves and bays. The beaches in North Devon are perfect for water sports, but they also offer amazing walks – wherever you are, you can ramble in miles of unspoiled countryside where you can visit historic buildings, browse museums and galleries or take a leisurely boat trip around the coast.
Why not spend some time in one of the county’s parks and gardens? There are a host of inspiring gardens that are landscaped and have won awards for their amazing flower displays and just as many parks and open countryside just waiting for you. For the ultimate relaxation, book into one of Devon’s spas – with an abundance of spa hotels and independent spas and beauty treatments all over, you’re never too far away from somewhere you can kick back and relax.
If you’re stuck for ideas for relaxing things to do, click here for some inspiration!
Get the blood pumping
Devon is a county of compromise, alongside the relaxing setting the region is a haven for those who love to get the adrenaline pumping including watersports, theme parks and a whole host more.
Whether you’re looking for somewhere family friendly or something for team building, you’ll find activities and attractions covering a host of sports and interests. With everything from rock climbing, horse riding, orienteering and more, you’ll never run out of things to do to challenge you.
Watching the pennies?
Devon offers fantastic value for money for anyone holidaying on a budget. You don’t have to dig deep to have a great time, there are plenty of free things to do on your trip to Devon, whether you’re looking for things to do with the family or ways to enjoy your time together without breaking the bank, you aren’t short of choices. Explore rock pools, go running, swimming, cycling or why not give geocaching a go – you can click here for inspiration and suggestions for holidays on a budget.
Fun whatever the weather
Whatever time of year you chose to visit Devon, you don’t have to miss out on the region’s attractions or activities. Many visitors choose to come in the winter months when the landscape takes on a completely different but equally as charming character. It’s the time when the waves are bigger, the moors are eerier and there is something very special about there being snow on the beaches!
Whether it is raining, sunny, cold or warm, there are plenty of things to see and do. The winter months give you stronger coastal winds giving you perfect conditions for windsurfing and the seasons see changes to theatre programmes, so you can enjoy musicals, plays or pantomimes, depending on when you visit.
If you get caught out by the changeable British weather, take a look at the region’s all weather attractions here.
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Easter
Celebrate Easter in Devon with spring coastal walks, family attractions, egg hunts, countryside escapes and seaside breaks. Book your Devon Easter holiday today.
Our Highlights
Ashburn Springs at Cofton Holidays
While away the days laying beside our outdoor pool or bubble away your troubles in our heated indoor…
Bicton Countryside Museum
Featuring a huge collection of exhibits that mirrors changes to village life, farming, horticulture…
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
At Bicton you can enjoy over 60 acres of beautiful gardens with their soft sweeping lawns, elegant…
Buckfast Abbey
Buckfast Abbey Church is open from 7.45am - 8.20pm (7.00pm on Saturday), the gardens, and Visitor…
Children's Activities at Bicton Park
At Bicton Park Botanical Gardens there is plenty of indoor and outdoor fun and educational…
Clovelly
Discover Clovelly, North Devon: A Step Back in Time Welcome to Clovelly, North Devon’s…
Clovelly Court Gardens
Clovelly Court Gardens are a classic example of a Victorian walled kitchen garden to visit in North…
Coldharbour Mill
Discover Coldharbour Mill: A Historic Gem of the Industrial Revolution Coldharbour Mill is one of…
Devon Canoe & Rowing Boat Hire
Hire a Boat and Journey Along the Grand Western Canal Discover the beauty of the Grand Western Canal…
Devon’s Top Attractions
Looking for things to do while in Devon? You’ll get great value for money and a day out to…
Feed the Turtle at The National Marine Aquarium
Feed the Turtle at the Aquarium This unique experience lets you feed Friday, our green sea turtle…
HarSPA at Harbour Hotel & Spa Sidmouth
A Luxury Spa Experience on the Devon Coast Escape to the HarSPA at Harbour Hotel & Spa Sidmouth…
Horse Drawn Barge
Discover the Magic of Tiverton Canal Co - A Historic Gem in the Heart of Mid Devon Nestled in the…
National Marine Aquarium
Discover the National Marine Aquarium: A UK Conservation Aquarium Experience An Unforgettable Day…
North Devon Resort - Things to do
Escape to North Devon Resort and enjoy a wide range of on-site activities. Take a dip in our indoor…
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Discover the Beauty of RHS Garden Rosemoor Nestled in a picturesque valley in the heart of…
Snorkel at The National Marine Aquarium
Snorkel at The Aquarium Immerse yourself in the National Aquarium’s deepest habitat, the…
Stuart Line Cruises
Discover Devon from the Water with Award-Winning Stuart Line Cruises Escape the hustle of city life…
Swimming Pool & Spa at Cofton Holidays
Come and make a splash at our indoor heated swimming pool near Dawlish. Open to day visitors whether…
The BIG Sheep
Experience Non-Stop Family Fun at North Devon's Top Attraction The Big Sheep, North…
Things to do at The Mole Resort
Adventure Awaits at The Mole Resort Set within 125 acres of lush North Devon countryside, The Mole…
Tiverton Canal Co
Tiverton Canal Company: A Living Heritage Attraction in Devon A Journey Back in Time with…
Watersports
Push the boundaries, challenge yourself and discover how wet and wild Devon watersports can be.
Parks & Gardens
Devon is full of wonderful parks and gardens, many of these parks and gardens are managed by organisations like the National Trust and have lovely areas with play areas for children and spots for dog walking.
Discover more Devon
The Brend Collection Announces Partnership with Children’s Hospice South West
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The Brend Collection is proud to announce a new charitable partnership with Children’s Hospice South West, a leading charity dedicated to providing vital care and support to babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families across the South West. This meaningful…
Learn MoreSunshine and blooms herald the start of a year of Horticultural highlights at RHS Garden Rosemoor
- 3 minute read
After a wet start to the year, the sunshine and warmer temperatures over the past weeks have brought a real flush of spring colour to the carefully curated gardens south of Great Torrington, marking the start of a year of special horticultural events which will delight gardeners across the…
Learn MoreEaster at Exeter Racecourse means racing, running and a racecourse full of family fun
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Exeter Racecourse hosts the Guildhall Shopping Exeter Family Raceday on Sunday 22 March 2026, offering an Easter day out packed with excitement for all ages. Gates open at 12.30pm for an afternoon of thrilling live jump racing with free children’s entertainment running throughout the day. One of the…
Learn MoreFAQ's
What are the best outdoor activities to do in Devon?
With two coastlines and two national parks, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor activities in Devon. If you want to take to the water, try surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing. If you'd rather stay on land, you'll find plenty of walking, hiking, and cycling routes. You can even find attractions catered solely to outdoor pursuits, like high ropes courses, segway experiences, or quadbiking.
Click here to explore outdoor pursuits in Devon
What can I do in Devon on a rainy day?
Yes, plenty! You can visit indoor attractions, like aquariums, museums or play areas especially for children. If you're the artistic type, try your hand at pottery painting, or for something more relaxing, head to one of Devon's spas. For a bit of retail therapy, head to an indoor shopping centre, or enjoy a bite to eat at a local restaurant or cafe to keep yourself dry.
You can browse all rainy day activities here
Is Devon suitable for a family day out?
Families have plenty to enjoy in Devon, from attractions like theme parks and zoos, to fun on the beach and in the sea. There is something for everyone!
Click here for all you need to know about visiting Devon with a family
Are there free things to do in Devon?
Devon has plenty of things to do for free or on a budget. Some of the region’s museums, galleries, and other attractions are completely free to visit, or you can take to nature and enjoy activities like fossil hunting, crabbing or birdwatching.
Click here to explore all the free things you can do in Devon
Is Devon good for shopping?
Devon is a great location for a spot of shopping, with many local villages showcasing independent businesses and handmade goods, as well as large-scale shopping centres packed with all your favourite high street brands.
Click here to plan your next shopping trip to Devon