We all know that Devon is a great location for families, but sometimes, you just want a quiet break away from the kids and if that’s the case, here are some suggestions for child-free holidays.

First up, there are a number of adult only accommodation providers across the county including in some of the region’s most popular destinations. One such option is Heathcliff House B&B, which caters exclusively for adults and can be found in Torquay. This four star, multi award winning bed and breakfast has a bar, locally sourced breakfasts, free parking and wifi included! The B&B itself is based within a historic, Victorian villa with a connection to Torquay’s famous author, Agatha Christie and with easy access to the road and rail networks, its perfectly placed for a proper grown up holiday.

outside of heathcliff house

Image: Heathcliff House B&B

Another option in the English Riviera is Driftwood Boutique B&B, which is located on Brixham Harbour. It is a luxurious, adults only boutique property with outstanding views of the harbour and indulgent décor. Each room features hypnos beds with Egyptian cotton linen, private balconies or Juliette’s, ensuites and complimentary toiletries. Guests get free carparking and free WiFi as part of their stay and being in Brixham, you are well placed to enjoy the wider South Devon area, the English Riviera and further afield like Exeter. The region is serviced by a regular bus and train service, so you are able to explore without having to worry about parking and with local stations having connections to the larger mainline route, you can easily travel from all over the country.

Nearby in Newton Abbot, is Amberley Cottage a former 18th century farmhouse. This self-catering property is the ideal place for relaxing and is just a stone’s throw from Exeter, Bovey Tracy and Dartmoor. Though the cottage does accept children, you have exclusive use, and being such a large cottage (it sleeps up to six) it is ideal for friend groups, those on girly or lads get aways. Whether you are interested in walking holidays, exploring towns and cities or more, this is the perfect location.

thatched cottage

Image: Amberley Cottage

Towards the middle of Devon, between Highampton and Holsworthy is Beara Lodge ​​​​​​, a glamping site with Safari tents spaciously set within 6 acre paddocks and surrounded by woodland. Again, this is a site that does welcome children, but you the tents are spaced out enough that you can enjoy a quiet, child free break. Each of the tents come complete with comfortable beds, full bathrooms, dining areas, kitchen with a fridge and hob and a lounge with a large sofa. Plus, there is the private outside area and patio where you are welcome to enjoy the surrounding nature.

Once you’ve found the perfect property for your stay, you’ll want to find things to occupy yourselves during the day. Of course, if you’re on an adults only vacation, you’ll be able to enjoy the many local pubs and restaurants, just remember to follow the latest guidelines when there and to enjoy responsibly.

counter at salcombe gin

Image: Salcombe Gin

As Devon is home to some of the best in UK gin, cider and wine, you’ll find plenty of distillers, vineyards and breweries across the region offering tours and the chance to make your own concoctions. One such place is Salcombe Distilling Company one of the world’s only distilleries that is accessible by boat. At Salcombe Distilling Co, they create exceptional, hand crafted gin and offer a range of fun activities for gin lovers including their tasting bar, their gin school and more! Of course, with the current restrictions and guidelines in place, there maybe changes to their usual opening hours and what is on offer, so make sure to check with them directly for the latest updates before visiting.

Further south in Plymouth is the Plymouth Gin distillery – the oldest working distillery in England! Gin has been made there since 1793 and still follows the original recipe! The building itself even dates back to 1431 and it is thought that the crew of the Mayflower spent their final nights in what is now their bar area. All their tours and activities are subject to availability and with the ever changing situation, it is advisable to speak to them directly if you’re interested in visiting to find the latest on their opening times. You can find out more about what else is on offer in terms of tours and more here.

Not everyone is into gin and there are plenty of other things to entertain yourselves with on a grown ups only trip to Devon. You could visit one of the many museums or stately homes in the region, which, during term time are often quieter or for something a bit more energetic, why not book in a session at the North Devon Wake Park.
Located in Bideford, just ten minutes from the coast, the North Devon Wake Park gives you the chance to give a wide range of watersports a go all within their lake site. Because of what is going on in the world right now, there are strict rules in place allowing you to all enjoy the equipment safely and to social distance.

When it comes to watersports, there are a whole host of organisations offering sessions, tutorials and trips around the coast. While there are family friendly options, many of them also have private sessions perfect for you and your party, find out what’s on offer here. You can find more suggestions of things to do across Devon during your trip here.

Where are your favourite places to go for a child free break? You can let us know on Twitter and Facebook.