Inspiration for the perfect escape
You can’t move in North Devon without finding something fun, cultural or adventurous to do! Whether you’re looking for a Devon day out guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained or a relaxing trip to a historic house, there’s plenty to choose from. For top Devon family attractions you can take your pick from a choice of theme parks with exhilarating rides and slides designed to thrill, or get up close and personal with the cutest animals at one of our fun packed farm attractions. North Devon boasts an enviable choice of more exotic wildlife attractions too, from a zoo and an aquarium to a Dinosaur Park. Enjoy a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous of bygone days in one of North Devon's historic houses and gardens. Plus there’s a fascinating range of heritage attractions to visit, including funicular railways, castles and medieval bridges.
Barefoot on the beach? A horse, carriage and stately home? Or saying your vows on windswept cliffs? Whatever your dream wedding location, North Devon has a host of wedding venues just waiting to enchant you, from rolling moors, to historic manor houses, hidden coves and endless beaches.
Sensory Delights >>>
As the weather starts to warm North Devon’s Gardens become a haze of colour. RHS Garden Rosemoor in Great Torrington is open throughout the year and the spring months bring a veritable riot of colour and form. Castle Hill near South Molton and Marwood Hill in Barnstaple both open to the public in April. Explore woodland gardens with follies and stunning herbaceous borders at Castle Hill and enjoy the large collection of Camellia with over eight hundred different cultivars at Marwood Hill.
Essential Exmoor >>>
Exmoor is paradise for the walker, whatever your chosen distance or terrain. With no less than 1000+ km of footpaths at your disposal, your (properly worn-in!) boots will surely wear thin before your choices. The Exmoor National Park Authority is a great place to start as are The National Park Visitor Centres at Lynton, Dunster and Dulverton. For walks with a difference try a hawk walk experience or a trek with llamas.
Beach guide >>>
From the big golden sands at Saunton, Westward Ho! and Woolacombe through to rocky coves and cliffs at Hartland and Clovely, North Devon & Exmoor offers every type of beach you could wish for. Surfers love Croyde, Saunton, Woolacombe and Westward Ho! and walkers can enjoy the quieter stretches at Hele, Barricane, Rockham and Putsborough. Instow can be explored by cycling along the Tarka Trail and reward yourself with a refreshing ice cream. Try rock pooling at Tunnels Beaches Ilfracombe or Hartland Quay and enjoy a refreshing walk along the cliffs! For our full guide to beaches visit www.northdevon.com
Rainy Day Ideas >>>
Rain stopped play? Not if you visit North Devon, it won’t! Even if it turns from a barbecue into a brolly summer, we’ve still got plenty to keep everyone happy.Little ones will love a trip to Quince Honey Farm. They’ll discover the Beeworld, explore the Happy Bee Playhive and be fascinated by the leaf cutter ant colony.
Older kid will enjoy the indoor climbing wall at Rock and Rapid Adventures while you enjoy a cup of watching them reach new heights under the guidance of qualified instructors.
Childs Play >>>
From seaside village to a rural farm holiday, North Devon & Exmoor offer the perfect playground to keep the kids entertained whatever the weather.
They’ll discover expansive sandy beaches, world-renowned, clean and safe with excellent waves for surfing and bodyboarding. Little ones will enjoy rock-pooling and building sand castles, and kids of all ages will be drawn to the local ice-cream sellers and traditional seaside shops around our coastline.
