Five Places to Visit in Devon This Summer
With the UK now open for domestic travel, there’s never been a better time to get exploring closer to home! I have fond memories of Devon holidays with my family as a child, and it’s somewhere I’m planning on hopefully revisiting soon as an adult. With gorgeous coastlines and parkland, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to experience some of Britain’s prettiest harbour towns and an outstanding food and drink scene.
Of course, the pandemic is far from over, and I fully advocate paying close attention to government guidance when it comes to any kind of travel, and always choosing activities and companies that support and promote safe and healthy tourism. But if you’re like me, and feeling comfortable and ready to see some new places and faces, find yourself a hotel in Devon, and get to know one of the UK’s loveliest counties, starting with my top suggestions of five places to visit in Devon this summer!
This post is written in collaboration with Hotels.com, but all views are my own.
Torbay
Growing up, Torbay was an annual summer holiday – we’d stay in Brixham, the town my mum grew up in, and spend a week visiting family and exploring the local area. Perched around the edge of the bay, you’ll find three towns – the aforementioned Brixham, a picturesque harbour town; Torquay, the largest of the three and birthplace of Agatha Christie; and Paignton, home of Paignton Zoo and your gateaway to sandy beaches. The perfect place to base yourself for exploring further in South Devon, enjoy freshly caught seafood, ocean views and clifftop walks!
Dartmoor National Park
After over a year cooped up in flats, living rooms and bedrooms, who doesn’t fancy a slice of the great outdoors? Dartmoor National Park is 86,186 acres of wild countryside spread across south Devon, a paradise for walkers, hikers, or anyone who simply wants to get a breath of fresh air! Explore ancient stone circles, rugged and rocky hills. There’s also the chance to check out some interesting castles, houses and museums – including the Dartmoor Prison Museum, near HMP Dartmoor.
Clovelly
Cut into the cliffs, Clovelly is the perfect picturesque harbour village, with a traditional fishing quay and quaint cobblestone streets. The Kingsley Museum delves into the life of author Charles Kingsley, who found inspiration in the village and surrounding area, and the Fisherman’s Cottage Museum builds a vivid picture of life in a quintessential English fishing town. If you’re looking for something more hands on, craft workshops let you try your hand at pottery and rag rugging, or you could simply soak up the sunshine on a boat trip around the coast.
Salcombe
One of Devon’s prettiest towns, Salcombe is a perfect base for enjoying a relaxing Devonshire break, surrounded by stunning beaches and picturesque villages. Winter visitors will occasionally find great waves for surfing, however most of the time the waters are calm and welcoming, ideal for taking a dip in the English summertime heat. For the more adventurous, you can also try your hand at a spot of sea kayaking or paddle boarding. Salcombe is also a foodie hotspot – famous for it’s crab, seafood eaters can’t leave without trying this super-fresh local delicacy!
Exeter
If city break is your style, Exeter is Devon’s second largest city and still has plenty of historical charm alongside more modern dining and shopping opportunities. Take in the gorgeous gothic architecture of Exeter Cathedral, and take a trip underground to explore the city’s 14th-century vaulted tunnels (unless you’re claustrophobic, maybe…). To relax, rest your bones in one of Exeter’s indulgent spas, followed by some wine tasting or a classic Devonshire afternoon tea.
