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5 hidden places to discover in Devon

30th November 2018

Categories: Visitor News

5 hidden places to discover in Devon

Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or coming to Devon for the first time, you might want to take note of these hidden gems in the county. There are plenty of beautiful locations to explore when you’re in Devon, whether it’s the beaches in the north or the country in the south, but we think these hidden places are a great addition to any itinerary.

Wistman’s Wood

This wild stretch of woodland is just a mile outside of Princetown. While it isn’t the easiest place to walk around (you will need sensible shoes) it is completely unique in its beauty and it is truly wild Devon at its best. Plus, it’s said to be haunted, so it might be a good place to take someone around Halloween time! The woods are easy to find from the Two Bridges Hotel, which has been described as ‘an oasis in the heart of Dartmoor’ and once you’ll see it, you’ll understand why! Other nearby attractions to add to your list include South Devon Railway, it is a branch line of the former GWR and you’ll get a trip on a steam train through some beautiful countryside.

David Dixon / Cockington / CC BY-SA 2.0

Cockington Village

Less than a mile from Torquay’s seafront, this delightful little village has cottages full of thatched cottages, narrow streets, a manor house, forge, water mill and even a cricket pitch, it is a quintessential English village. You can even take a ride around the town in a horse drawn carriage! It might look like you’ve stepped into a time warp, but it is actually pretty much in the middle of Torquay! While you’re in town to experience the many attractions, such as Kents Cavern, where you can get tours of the underground caverns. Spend a few days in town by booking into one of the many hotels, like the Grosvenor House Torquay, a charming guesthouse, giving you the opportunity to sample some of the town’s restaurants and maybe even fill up on cream tea while in Cockington!

Burgh Island

Only accessible by a sea tractor in high tide, this small island is famous among Agatha Christie fans. It is just off Bigbury Beach and has plenty to offer in terms of sights, if you’re lucky you might even catch one of the legendary sunsets. Nearby is Pilchard Inn, one of the oldest pubs in England, as well as plenty of hotels and restaurants for you to find refreshments. Nearby is Salcombe Distilling Co. where you can try some local gin and even learn to make your own! Also in the vicinity is the charming Millbrook Inn which is a haven for foodies and anyone that likes a great view.

Jay's Grave
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Alan Hunt - geograph.org.uk/p/2872931

Jay’s Grave

Located in the eerie but also beautiful Dartmoor, this is said to be the last resting place of a woman who died in the late 18^th century under scandalous circumstances. It is well known to the people leaving in the area and is the subject of ghost stories as fresh flowers reportedly end up placed on the grave, though no one seems to know where they come from or who is doing it. Dartmoor is a beautiful area of Devon with plenty of beautiful views and wonderful places to stay. Give the kids chance to let off steam at River Dart Country Park while you’re in the area, they can not only take part in adventures but there are some lovely scenic walks for you to do as a family too.

The Ness Cove
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Alan Hunt - geograph.org.uk/p/4034814

Ness Cove

This is one of Devon’s most secluded beaches and was originally used by pirates as the access is only available through a smuggler’s tunnel. The tunnel is hidden between a hotel and the local zoo, it’s completely sheltered by surrounding cliffs and as such is much quieter than the other beaches in the Shaldon and Teignmouth area. Stop in the area for a few days and make yourself at home at Riviera Apartments, placing you conveniently between Shaldon and Teignmouth, so you have access to both towns where there are a wealth of shops and beaches.

Do you have any other hidden gems you think the world should know about? Let us know! You can get in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.