Map Of Devon England Travel Guide

Introduction

Devon is a county in the southwest of England, known for its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. This comprehensive travel guide will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Devon is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic attractions in England. The most famous of these is probably the Jurassic Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The coastline is 95 miles long and features stunning rock formations, hidden coves, and fossil-filled beaches. Other top attractions in Devon include Dartmoor National Park, the historic city of Exeter, and the charming fishing villages of Clovelly and Appledore.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions in Devon are certainly worth visiting, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. One of these is the Dartington Estate, a 1,200-acre estate that is home to a range of cultural and educational activities. Another hidden gem is the village of Beer, which has a picturesque beach and a fascinating history as a center for smuggling.

Food Scene

Devon is known for its delicious food, much of which is sourced locally. The county is particularly famous for its cream teas, which consist of scones, clotted cream, and jam. Other local specialties include seafood, cider, and fudge. Some of the best places to sample Devon’s cuisine include the Riverford Field Kitchen, the Crab Shack in Teignmouth, and the Rusty Pig in Ottery St Mary.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Devon can be an expensive place to visit, but there are also plenty of ways to save money. One tip is to book accommodation outside of the main tourist areas, which can be cheaper. Another tip is to take advantage of free attractions, such as the many walking trails in Dartmoor National Park. Finally, it’s worth looking out for special deals and offers, especially during the off-season.

Outdoor Adventures

Devon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities on offer. These include hiking, cycling, surfing, kayaking, and rock climbing. Some of the best places to enjoy these activities include Dartmoor National Park, the North Devon coastline, and the Exmoor National Park.

Historical Landmarks

Devon has a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. These include the ancient ruins of the Tintagel Castle, the medieval Exeter Cathedral, and the 18th-century Powderham Castle. Another fascinating historical site is the Bronze Age burial chamber at Spinsters’ Rock.

Family-Friendly Activities

Devon is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Some of the best family-friendly attractions include the Paignton Zoo, the Milky Way Adventure Park, and the National Marine Aquarium. Families can also enjoy the many beaches and parks in the area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those who want to get off the beaten path, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had in Devon. One such experience is the Dartmoor Prison Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the history of the prison. Another is the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust, where visitors can learn about the history and care of these iconic animals.

Natural Wonders

Devon is home to some truly spectacular natural wonders, including the aforementioned Jurassic Coast. Other natural wonders to explore include the Lydford Gorge, the Valley of the Rocks, and the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Vibrant Nightlife

While Devon may not be known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of places to enjoy a night out. Some of the best nightlife spots include the Exeter Phoenix, the Timepiece in Exeter, and the Hub in Plymouth. Visitors can also enjoy a night out in one of the many traditional pubs in the area.

Local Markets

Devon is home to many local markets, where visitors can sample the county’s delicious food and drink. Some of the best markets in Devon include the Exeter Farmers’ Market, the Ottery St Mary Food and Families Market, and the Totnes Good Food Market.

Beaches and Mountains

Devon is blessed with both stunning beaches and majestic mountains. Some of the best beaches in Devon include Woolacombe Beach, Bantham Beach, and Saunton Sands. Meanwhile, the highest mountain in Devon is High Willhays, which is located in Dartmoor National Park.

Cultural Immersion

Devon has a rich cultural history, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in it. Some of the best cultural experiences in Devon include visiting the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, exploring the historic quayside in Exeter, and taking a tour of the Buckfast Abbey.

Art and Music Scene

Devon has a thriving arts and music scene, with many galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. Some of the best places to enjoy the arts in Devon include the Barnfield Theatre in Exeter, the Plymouth Pavilions, and the Thelma Hulbert Gallery in Honiton.

Walking Tours

Devon is a great place for walking tours, with many beautiful trails to explore. Some of the best walking tours in Devon include the Tarka Trail, the South West Coast Path, and the Two Moors Way.

Architectural Marvels

Devon is home to many impressive architectural marvels, from historic castles to modern buildings. Some of the best architectural marvels in Devon include the Powderham Castle, the Saltram House, and the Royal Citadel in Plymouth.

Historical Sites

Devon has a long and fascinating history, and there are many historical sites to explore. Some of the best historical sites in Devon include the Castle Drogo, the Buckland Abbey, and the Dartmouth Castle.

Biking Routes

Devon is a great place for biking, with many scenic routes to explore. Some of the best biking routes in Devon include the Granite Way, the Tarka Trail, and the Plym Valley Trail.

Wellness Retreats

Devon is a great place to unwind and relax, with many wellness retreats to choose from. Some of the best wellness retreats in Devon include the Yeotown Kitchen, the Sharpham Trust, and the Gaia Spa at Boringdon Hall.

Adventure Sports

Finally, Devon is a great place for adventure sports enthusiasts, with many adrenaline-fueled activities on offer. Some of the best adventure sports in Devon include coasteering, surfing, climbing, and kayaking.

Conclusion

Devon is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of England. This comprehensive travel guide has covered the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. With so much to see and do, Devon is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to England.