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Re-Connect in Devon

26th March 2021

Categories: Visitor News

With the diverse history and fascinating landscape, Devon is a county for adventurers, explorers and storytellers. From the ancient history of the Jurassic Coast in East Devon to the dramatic Iron Age settlements that can still be found on Dartmoor, the history of the Mayflower voyage in Plymouth and the WWII connections in the north of the county, there is plenty to unpick on a visit to Devon.
This year, we want to reconnect with Devon’s amazing stories, heroes and the remarkable connections to both America and our past, whether that’s via one of the county’s many castles (did you know the youngest castle in England is here?) or the glorious Exeter Cathedral, the Roman cave systems in Beer or the smuggler’s cove in Shaldon you’ll find history and adventure wherever you go.

For even more incredible stories and destinations where you can be inspired to explore more of England’s story, take a look at Reconnect England.

As many attractions may have altered opening times or restrictions in place, please check their websites before visiting and follow the current Government guidelines regarding travel.

Buckland Abbey

A visit to Buckland Abbey connects you to over 700 years of history. Initially starting life as a tranquil monastery when it was founded in 1278, Buckland Abbey was the last of the Cistercian monasteries to be built in England. Follow in the footsteps of the monks who farmed the land for over 250 years, before the estate was sold to Sir Roger Grenville after the dissolution of the monasteries when it became a country house and then voyage onwards with the estate’s most famous owner, Sir Francis Drake, the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe. Drake is also known for his connections to the English monarchy, most notably Queen Elizabeth I, who’s influence can still be felt in the Elizabethan style gardens that surround the Abbey.
Perhaps you might even come across the restless spirit of Sir Francis Drake, who is said to still roam around Dartmoor.

Discover decades of history.

Dartmouth

Home to the only remaining Naval College in England, Dartmouth is awash with naval history which can be uncovered in its charming historic streets and of course, the castle which still stands pride of place along the water’s edge.
The castle has stood guard over the entrance to the Dart Estuary for over 600 years, originally being used for defence by John Hawley, Dartmouth’s Mayor and Privateer. These days it is known for being one of the most beautifully located fortresses in England with stunning views of the estuary and out to sea.
With a great range of events taking place all year around, including the world famous Regatta, there is always something happening in this vibrant, harbour town located in South Devon.

Uncover Devon’s maritime history

Slapton Sands

One of the most picturesque sandy beaches in the county, Slapton Sands has a fascinating history. It was the location of Operation Tiger, a series of rehearsals for the D Day invasion of Normandy. A stone monument to the event can be found along with a Sherman Tank and nearby Torcross.

The beach is now a popular resort for family holidays, due to the calm waters and safety and cleanliness of the beach. If that wasn’t enough to compel a visit, the surrounding Nature Reserve is home to some of the UK’s rarest plant life, providing something new every time you come.

Pay tribute to Devon’s wartime heroes

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter might be small, but it packs a big punch. The capital of Devon has a whole host of historical intrigue and cultural hotspots making it a must visit. The cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the UK having been established in 1050. To this day it remains one of the prettiest buildings in England and there are plenty of stories to uncover on one of the many tours that take place from outside in Cathedral Green, including the underground tunnels that stretch all over the city.

Explore the hallowed halls

Plymouth

Known as Britain’s Ocean City some of Devon’s oldest streets can be found in Plymouth. The place to be to celebrate naval history, Royal William Yard is now a hive of culture and entertainment while the Barbican plays host to cobbled streets and evidence of the city’s original buildings. The city recently celebrated the 400^th anniversary of the departure of the Mayflower, which left Plymouth for America with the first set of pilgrims looking to resettle in the New World. You can find out more about that iconic voyage at the Box, a new museum full of art and artefacts bringing you to the centre of the action.

Set sail and make new discoveries

The North Coast

Almost the entirety of Devon’s North Coast falls into the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and it isn’t hard to see why. From England’s surfing hot spot to terrifying tales of piracy, there are many ways to explore the coast here.
Appledore features an annual pirate festival where you can learn more about the fearsome sailors who prowled Devon’s shores, while a trip to Ilfracombe or Bideford will give you access to the ferry across to Lundy Island, home to Devon’s puffin population and once the base of UK piracy. Speaking of Ilfracombe, here is where you can revisit the Victorian era with a trip to the Two Tunnels Beach.

From Piracy to Regency, explore Britain’s timeline.