There’s lot to see and do in Devon, and here are 10 of our top reasons
(in alphabetical order), to visit wonderful Devon
Babbacombe Model Village
Take time out from the hustle and bustle of every day life and feel on top of the world as you see it recreated in miniature. Thousands of miniature buildings, people and vehicles capture the essence of England’s past, present and future set in four acres of award-winning gardens. It’s not just the humour, nor the animation – it has a life of its own. https://www.model-village.co.uk/
Brixham
You can cross the river Dart by car ferry to Brixham which is situated in South Devon’s beautiful Tor Bay on the English Riviera; the bay consists of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.
Brixham is renowned for its established fishing port, this port has one of the largest fishing fleets in the United Kingdom. The fresh catch is sold in the fish markets located on the quayside. http://www.visitbrixham.com/
Dartmouth
Ancient narrow streets house boutique shops, art galleries and delicatessens. A cobbled market place features colourful stalls and farmers’ markets supplying local produce – used by gourmet restaurants, pubs and cafes.
Sail, fish, explore by boat or visit at festival time. Take the steam train ride to Paignton for a treat or enjoy visits to the castle, Britannia Royal Naval College and National Trust gardens. Walk the South West Coast Path or laze on the clean beaches. https://www.discoverdartmouth.com/
Exeter
Exeter, a university town with a racecourse and an ever expending airport, is the gateway to Devon and is always busy.
The cathedral is on the site of an 11th century church, with the Cathedral Green a relaxing place to visit and wander, although the coffee shops and restaurants around it are always tempting.
As the city was badly bombed in WWII, parts of the shopping area are fairly new and there is a large shopping centre, now pedestrianised, whilst down by the River Exe and the Exeter Canal old buildings still remain, and you can take a boat trip. https://www.visitexeter.com/
Exmouth
Is well celebrated for its long two-miles of golden sand and is on the estuary of the River Exe, internationally known for its wildlife.
It is in the centre of East Devon’s glorious countryside with Woodbury Common and beautiful towns and villages nearby. Exmouth has its own train station, only 25 minutes away from Exeter by train (and just 10 miles from the M5 motorway).http://www.exmouth-guide.co.uk/
Salcombe
Salcombe is located in the most southerly part of Devon and is surrounded by picturesque villages, magnificent coastal scenery and stunning beaches.
Walking the coastal footpath, sailing in the estuary, or enjoying a leisurely ferry trip, there is always plenty of activities in this delightful unspoilt area in South Devon. http://www.salcombeinformation.co.uk/about-the-area/
Paignton Zoo
Visitors can cover thousands of miles in just a few hours and on foot, on a worldwide nature trail at Paignton Zoo. Scorching deserts, frozen poles, African savannah and the rainforest of South America are all represented.
You can find tigers, lions, gorillas, orangutans, elephant, giraffes, zebras and black rhinos. www.paigntonzoo.org.uk
Plymouth
Plymouth is about a 20-minute drive from Soar Mill and is known for its large Navy base and Sir Frances Drake, who apparently finished game of bowls on the Hoe before heading out to sea defeating the Spanish Armada.
The centre has recently seen the opening of a multi-million shopping complex with all the latest designers stores to keep even the most experienced shopper happy for a few hours. http://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/
Totnes
Comfortably placed in the rolling hills of South Devon, Totnes is a remarkable town. It is blessed with a fascinating history and stunning location on one of Britain’s most beautiful and historically significant waterways, the River Dart.
It is home to a cosmopolitan mix of people and their wide range of interests foster exciting cultural activity and passionate exploration of new ideas. Totnes is a intriguing mix of historic market town and bohemian culture. There is truly something for everyone here. https://www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk/explore-south-devon/totnes-p194553
Woodlands Family Theme Park
Indoors, outdoors, zoo-farm and nature days – Woodlands Family Theme Park has four days rolled into one. For one inclusive price, the 90-acre park has big action and big rides for big kids and cute rides and interaction for small kids.
There are over 100,000 sq ft indoors at Woodlands so wet days are a whiz – the best slides, the highest climbs and the most daring adventures in the biggest indoor venture centres in the UK. Choose from four rides in the Fun Factories including the 40ft drop on the Trauma Tower.