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10 of Devon’s prettiest villages to visit post lockdown

6th April 2021

Categories: Visitor News

As lockdown continues to lift and we are given the go ahead to travel around more, you might be interested in visiting somewhere new and picturesque, if that’s the case, we’ve compiled a list of ten of the prettiest villages that can be found in Devon for you to add to your itineraries.

Hartland

If you’re in the mood for somewhere dramatic with plenty of walking routes, head to Hartland. This is the most north westerly settlement in the North Devon region and is on the border with Cornwall, sitting along the heritage coast. The village is pretty remote, but very charming with classic cottages – the kind that really invoke the feeling of being in the British countryside. A museum talking about the history of the village can be found at the Quay and Hartland Point is the place to go for glorious sights of the coast crashing against the rocks. It also featured in the latest adaptation of Rebecca which is available now on Netflix.

Shaldon

At the other end of the county in the Torbay region is Shaldon. It is a largely unspoiled village that is loved by visitors because of its old timey atmosphere. The village still has strong links to the fishing industry, so you’ll find lots of brightly coloured boats and a host of local shops and attractions, including a small zoo.

Dunsford

This sweet little village is one of those spots on Dartmoor that feels like you’ve been transported back to a simpler time. As it is on the moor, the village is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is full of lovely character cottages with amazing views across the Teign Valley. The village is a quiet place to spend some time and is perfect for exploring the vast expanse of Dartmoor.

Braunton

Located in North Devon, this was once the biggest village in England – it’s something that is proudly stated around the village, even if it isn’t quite true any more. The village’s centre is a thriving community hub, with plenty of places to dine as well as surf shops – perfect for enjoying the nearby beaches at Saunton, Woolacombe and Croyde. Also nearby is Braunton Burrows, a Nature Reserve consisting of incredible sand dunes.

Widecombe in the Moor

No prizes for guessing that you can find this village on Dartmoor! There are less than 500 homes in the whole of the village, but because of its annual events, plus the shops and tea rooms, it is pretty well known to regular visitors to Dartmoor, especially if you’re an avid pony spotter, they like to hang around on the village green alongside cattle and sheep!

Cockington
One of the most picturesque villages in the Torbay area is Cockington, where you can enjoy narrow, cobbled streets, journeying about on a horse and cart and finding pretty thatched cottages. The village is one of the oldest in the region, having been first mentioned in the 10^th century and featuring two hill forts and a country park. Perfect for picnics and enjoying the sun.

Appledore

With its pretty, pastel coloured houses Appledore is a great place to go if you like going out with your camera. The village is famous for its history of piracy and there is a fascinating museum where you can learn more. You’ll also be able to enjoy the Book Festival which takes place every year, as well as the local regatta.

Instow

Neighbouring Appledore, Instow sits on the banks of an estuary and is a popular destination for holiday makers because of its proximity to places like Bideford and Barnstaple. It has its own little beach and the Tarka Trail links it to other popular places in the North Devon region.

Lustleigh

For a village that looks like a postcard has come to life, take a visit to Lustleigh on the outskirts of Bovey Tracey. It is a quiet village with valleys and lovely riverside walks as well as easy access to Dartmoor providing plenty of places to explore. The village has a number of traditions, including their own May Day celebrations, when the village’s May Queen is named and their name is added to a large rock sat beneath a stone throne. The rock features the name of every queen crowned since the 1950s!

Clovelly

We left one of the best until last, Clovelly is probably one of Devon’s best known locations – the village is a car free zone, so that cobbled streets and harbour are largely untouched. The village is a little higgledy piggledy with cottages lining hilly streets and amazing views into the harbour. As there are no cars allowed, deliveries are made via donkey!

Where are your favourite villages in Devon? You can let us know on Facebook and Twitter and don’t forget to look out for images of pretty villages on our Instagram.