Devon’s easily one of my favorite places in the UK for a holiday—no matter the time of year. Whether I’m craving sunny days on those wide, sandy beaches, peaceful hikes across wild moorland, or just a warm evening by the fire in a cozy pub, Devon never disappoints.
Planning the right time to visit depends a lot on what you want most from your trip. I swear, every time I go, I stumble onto something new.
When summer rolls around, I can’t wait for the lively coast—swimming and relaxing at spots like Woolacombe or Bantham Beach. Autumn hikes through Dartmoor’s changing colors give a totally different vibe.
Winter, though, that’s when the villages feel extra charming. I love ducking into a pub for a comforting meal after a brisk walk. Spring is full of wildflowers and mild weather—honestly, it’s perfect for exploring without the crowds.
Every season in Devon brings its own beauty, adventure, and local culture. There’s always something that fits what you’re after.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit Devon
When I’m planning a Devon holiday, I always weigh up the weather, local traditions, and how busy things might get. Devon changes a lot with the seasons.
Each part of the year brings its own set of activities and a different atmosphere.
Seasonal Highlights for Beach Days
The north and south coasts both serve up great beach days. June through August is prime time for swimming, surfing, or just lazing on Woolacombe Beach or Bantham Beach.
You get longer days, warmer water, and a lively scene—families, sunbathers, surfers, you name it.
Spring, though, has its perks. The beaches feel quieter.
I love strolling along the sand or watching wildlife in May or September when the crowds thin out. It’s so much easier to soak up the views or snap a photo without dodging people.
Summer does get crowded in the coastal towns and villages. Early autumn still brings decent weather but with fewer people, which I really appreciate.
If you want lively beach towns and lots of activities, summer’s your bet. For peace and quiet, late spring or early autumn is hard to beat.
Weather Patterns and Local Events
Devon’s weather tends to stay mild compared to much of England. October to January brings the most rain, and the moorland walks can get muddy.
Spring is great for hiking, with fresh green landscapes and flowers blooming along the South West Coast Path near Ilfracombe.
Summer usually lands in the 18–22°C range—not too hot, just right. Market towns throw fairs and festivals, and I love wandering through stalls in Totnes or Ashburton.
Winter gets colder and damper, but it’s perfect for cozy pub evenings after a windy Dartmoor walk.
Every season brings its own local events. Warm months mean village fairs, music festivals, and food markets.
Come December, Christmas markets and festive lights pop up, especially around Exeter or Dartmouth.
Off-Peak and Staycation Benefits
Traveling outside of July and August? You’ll enjoy off-peak pricing and quieter attractions.
I find exploring market towns like Tavistock or hiking on Exmoor is just easier without the crowds. Booking last-minute stays gets less stressful, too, and you skip the high-season prices.
Staycations have taken off, so even in off-peak months, there’s plenty of local flavor. I like wandering through village fairs and chatting with local producers at weekly markets.
Pubs and cafés are usually less busy, which makes it easier to unwind and take in the vibe.
Fewer people also mean less traffic and easier parking at the big sights. I can cruise along the north and south coasts at my own pace.
Everything feels more personal and unhurried—a real escape.
Top Beaches and Coastal Escapes
Devon’s coast really does have it all—golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and lively seaside towns. Each stretch offers something different.
You’ll find busy family beaches, quiet coves, scenic walking trails, and waters for every kind of activity.
Must-Visit Devon Beaches
When I’m planning a beach day, Woolacombe jumps to mind first. It’s three miles of clean sand, loved by surfers and families.
The lifeguards help everyone relax and enjoy the sea.
Croyde is another top pick if I’m after good surf and pretty dunes. It’s popular, so I try to get there early in summer.
For a quieter spot, South Sands Beach near Salcombe is a gem. Its sheltered water makes swimming easy, and grabbing lunch at the Winking Prawn is kind of a tradition.
Salcombe itself charms with pastel houses and little boat trips along the shore.
Clovelly in North Devon feels unique. Pebbles instead of sand, and a steep, car-free village with cobbled streets running right down to the sea.
The English Riviera—Torbay and Brixham—brings classic seaside fun with promenades, arcades, and busy harbors.
| Beach | Best For | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Woolacombe | Family, Surfing | North Devon |
| Croyde | Surfing | North Devon |
| South Sands | Calm Swimming | Near Salcombe |
| Torbay | Seaside Towns | English Riviera |
| Clovelly | History, Views | North Devon |
Exploring the South West Coast Path
If I’m after big views and fresh air, I hit the South West Coast Path. It winds for more than 600 miles, and some of the best bits run through Devon.
The stretch from Brixham to Dartmouth is a favorite. The path hugs cliffs, dips into little bays, and the scenery shifts from wild headlands to peaceful estuaries.
I like stopping off at beaches like Blackpool Sands or finding a lookout for a picnic.
The Torbay part is great for soaking up the English Riviera, while the rugged tracks above Woolacombe and Croyde give sweeping Atlantic views.
Don’t forget sturdy shoes and a camera—there’s always a chance to spot sea birds or even seals.
Maps and waymarkers make it easy to stay on track. Plenty of cafés and pubs pop up near the path for a break.
Watersports and Surfing Destinations
When I’m itching to try watersports, North Devon is my go-to. Woolacombe and Croyde have surf schools, board rentals, and gentle spots for beginners.
If you’re more experienced, the waves can be some of the best in England.
Salcombe is better for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The water’s usually calm, so it’s easy to explore creeks and hidden coves.
I sometimes spot people windsurfing near South Sands Beach.
On the English Riviera, Torbay and Brixham offer boat trips, jet skiing, and fishing excursions. The bay tends to be calm, which is safer and more fun for families or newbies.
I always check the day’s conditions with local providers and look for RNLI lifeguard flags before getting in the water. The sea can be chilly, so a wetsuit usually helps if you want a long session.
Charming Coastal Towns
No trip feels complete without time in Devon’s seaside towns. Salcombe stands out with boutique shops, harborside cafés, and fresh seafood.
I often stay near South Sands Hotel or grab snacks at the Winking Prawn.
Brixham buzzes with fish markets, colorful houses, and harbors packed with boats. Strolling the breakwater is a must for sea views—and grabbing fish and chips is pretty much a ritual.
Dartmouth sits where the River Dart meets the sea. Cobbled streets are lined with galleries, pubs, and old castles.
Ferry rides and river cruises are easy to hop on.
Clovelly is just different. The steep, car-free lanes have a quirky charm, and wandering from the top down to the waterfront always feels like a little adventure.
Each town along Devon’s coasts gives a fresh way to enjoy the scenery, food, and that easygoing, friendly atmosphere.
Immersive Moorland Adventures
Exploring Devon’s moorlands is like stepping into a different world. I always find new walking trails, spot wild ponies, and visit those famous granite tors.
Dartmoor and Exmoor both offer open spaces, rolling hills, and hidden valleys that change with the seasons.
Hiking in Dartmoor and Exmoor
When I head into Dartmoor National Park, marked trails for all levels are easy to find. Walks around Haytor and Hound Tor open up wide views—grassy slopes, rugged rocks, and hedgerows stretching into the distance.
The open land can get windy, so I pack layers and check the weather before I set out.
Walking Exmoor feels a bit different. The hills are softer, with more wooded valleys and paths winding toward coastal villages like Lynton and Lynmouth.
I keep a simple table to remember walk lengths and start points:
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Distance | Notable Views |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haytor Loop | Easy | 4 miles | Granite outcrop |
| Lynmouth Valley | Moderate | 6 miles | Sea cliffs |
| Chagford to Teign | Moderate | 5 miles | River Teign |
No matter the route, I wear sturdy boots and keep a map handy. The weather can turn quickly.
Wildlife Encounters and Wild Ponies
One of the best sights on Dartmoor is spotting wild ponies grazing near the paths. They roam in small herds and often appear out of nowhere.
I keep my distance, since they’re used to people but still wild.
Exmoor is home to red deer and loads of birds. In summer, skylarks sing high overhead as I walk through the moor grass.
Sometimes I see rabbits or foxes at the edge of the woods.
Early morning or late afternoon is best for wildlife watching, when animals are most active.
I always close gates behind me and never leave food scraps—keeps the wildlife safe.
Exploring Tor Landmarks
Tors are those rocky hills that make Dartmoor so special. Haytor stands out with its high granite peaks and wide views all the way to the coast.
A flat path leads from the car park, which makes it easy for families.
Hound Tor looks dramatic and comes with its own set of myths and old tales. Climbing the rocks gives you a better view, especially when the mist rolls in.
Near Chagford, tors like Meldon offer quieter walks.
I love ending a hike in a village, grabbing tea or a warm meal in a local pub before heading home.
Charming Villages and Coastal Food Experiences
Devon really shines with its blend of storybook villages, fresh seafood, and local treats.
I wander rustic lanes, browse bustling markets, and savor seafood along the coast. There’s nothing like relaxing over scones or exploring towns shaped by centuries of trade and tradition.
Thatched Villages and Local Markets
Some of Devon’s prettiest scenes? Those thatched villages, especially around mid-Devon. Branscombe and Croyde, for example, have these whitewashed cottages, cobbled paths, and hedges that look almost too perfect.
I love wandering through these hamlets in the early morning, when the only sound is my footsteps on the stones.
Local markets here just feel real—no touristy vibes. Ashburton’s weekly market, for instance, overflows with homemade bread, fresh eggs, and wild venison.
Cheeses, jars of jam, and bunches of wildflowers spill across old wooden stalls. You can’t help but linger.
Farmers’ markets are the spot for fresh produce and proper artisan treats. Most villages host them on Saturdays.
I usually stop for a chat at the stalls, pick up tips about local walks, and grab a still-warm pastry to munch in the square.
Devon’s Best Seafood Eateries
Fishing villages in Devon haul in the day’s catch and serve it up—think mackerel, crab, scallops, all straight from the boats. Ilfracombe stands out for its seafood restaurants. I’ve enjoyed fresh fish here with the sea right in front of me.
The Seafood Coast runs from Salcombe to Brixham. In Brixham, family-run spots and little harborside cafes serve up classic fish and chips, grilled mackerel, or big shellfish platters.
Seasonal specials are always worth checking out, especially in summer when choices multiply. For something a bit different, those ramshackle seafood shacks by the water are my go-to. The menu changes with the tides, and honestly, crab straight from the shell on a sunny dock? Nothing beats it.
Cream Teas and Culinary Traditions
A Devon cream tea is non-negotiable. Every tearoom serves up warm scones, thick clotted cream, and sweet strawberry jam.
Here’s the rule: cream first, then jam. No debate.
Many tea rooms use local jams and dairy from Devon cows, which makes the whole experience feel extra special.
Devon’s farm shops tempt with fudge, cider, and chutneys. Sampling these treats gives a real taste of the county.
There’s just something about sitting in a garden with hot tea, feeling that quiet connection to the land and its traditions.
Historic Market Towns
Devon’s market towns blend old and new in the best way. Totnes, for example, mixes medieval buildings with quirky shops and a lively Friday market.
Antique stalls sit right next to cheesemongers and bakers, so every stroll feels like a treasure hunt.
Ashburton is a food lover’s dream. Artisan foods, antiques, and bakeries line the streets. I’ve browsed for wild venison, homemade pies, and pottery—all in one afternoon.
These towns really lean into their heritage. You’ll spot centuries-old stone buildings, market squares, and plaques telling stories from the past.
Exploring at a slow pace, I always feel pulled into the daily rhythms of Devon life.
Cosy Pub Evenings and Unique Accommodation
Evenings in Devon? I always look for a welcoming pub or a place with a bit of character to stay. Devon just nails the cosy getaway vibe, whether I’m after a lively city night in Plymouth or a quiet retreat on the moors.
Characterful Pubs and Local Ales
Discovering Devon’s pubs is a bit of a hobby for me. Crackling fires, friendly locals, and locally brewed ales set the scene.
In many villages, historic pubs like The Farmers Arms serve up classic dishes and offer a perfect place to relax after a day outdoors.
Menu boards change with the seasons and usually feature a solid range of ciders and craft ales.
The coast is never far, so pubs make ideal stops after a day at the beach. In East Devon, I find inns close to the Jurassic Coast, combining sea views with hearty food.
Many pubs welcome dogs, which I love—my four-legged friend always gets a spot by the fire.
Some evenings, pubs host live folk music or quiz nights. It’s a fun way to meet locals and soak up the atmosphere.
On a chilly night, there’s nothing better than a pint by the hearth.
Accommodation Options for Every Season
No matter the season, Devon’s got you covered for places to stay. For seaside comfort, Gara Rock near Salcombe has clifftop views and stylish rooms—great for sunny days or wild weather.
Families often pick self-catering cottages for the freedom and privacy.
Bovey Castle is my top choice for a touch of luxury. Indoor pools, elegant rooms, and afternoon tea that always feels like a treat.
In spring and autumn, I like glamping pods or shepherd’s huts tucked away in the countryside. Boutique hotels in Plymouth are handy for short breaks near the action.
If you’re after something really memorable, try a treehouse, converted barn, or even a lighthouse cottage. Each trip feels new.
Historic Inns and Country Hotels
Staying at a historic inn gives a real sense of Devon’s past. Some of these places go back centuries, with tales from Agatha Christie’s time and local legends.
Antique beams, open fires, and traditional décor make for a cosy evening meal and a restful night.
Country hotels like Bovey Castle blend history with comfort. Landscaped grounds, golf courses, and spa treatments are all part of the package.
Some hotels sit right by national parks, so moorland hikes are just a step away.
If I’m in Plymouth, classic city hotels let me dive into maritime history before sinking into a plush bed.
The mix of heritage and hospitality keeps every stay interesting.
Iconic Sights and Heritage Exploration
Devon’s got layers—history, dramatic landscapes, and a sense of place you can’t fake.
I wander from ancient castles to lively cities, always finding new threads tying me to the county’s past.
Medieval Architecture and Castles
Devon has some seriously impressive castles and medieval landmarks. Totnes Castle, for example, stands as a textbook Norman motte and bailey, with sweeping views over the town.
Dartmouth Castle guards the mouth of the River Dart and has done so for centuries. Both spots usually have family-friendly events and activities.
Powderham Castle, not far from Exeter, offers a grand setting with over 600 years of family history and deer parks all around.
Guided tours are available at most sites, but I often prefer wandering on my own.
Medieval churches and charming market towns add even more character. Totnes High Street is worth a stroll, and you’ll still find medieval bridges in use across many villages.
UNESCO Sites and National Trust Properties
Devon’s UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast stretches eastward into Dorset. Fossil hunters and hikers flock here for the cliffs and quirky geology.
I spot markers along the South West Coast Path that point out key fossil and rock sites.
The National Trust looks after plenty of gems. Greenway, Agatha Christie’s old home, and Coleton Fishacre both offer a peek into history with gorgeous gardens.
Saltram House near Plymouth mixes parkland with striking architecture and art.
Maps, picnic spots, and marked trails make exploring easy. Some properties, like Cotehele on the Cornwall border, tie Devon’s story to the wider region and often host seasonal events.
Day Trips to Exeter and Torquay
Exeter, the county’s capital, draws you in with its striking Gothic cathedral and Roman city walls. I love wandering around Cathedral Close—there’s this blend of quirky shops, cozy cafes, and old stone buildings that just feels timeless.
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum pulls you into Devon’s story, mixing local history with a dash of natural wonders. Sometimes I’ll lose track of time in there, just exploring the exhibits.
Torquay sits at the heart of the English Riviera, where sandy beaches stretch surprisingly close to the town center. The Victorian architecture pops up everywhere, and the harbor always seems busy with life.
If you’re an Agatha Christie fan, there’s the mapped Christie Mile, which is honestly a fun way to see the town through her eyes. Kents Cavern, a prehistoric cave, lets you imagine ancient people living right where you’re standing—kind of wild, honestly.
Both towns blend cultural sights with the kind of coastal walks that make you want to linger. In Exeter, I often stumble on hidden gems—maybe a tucked-away bakery on South Street or some unexpected art along the Quayside, where old meets new and the city feels alive.
