Things to do in Devon

The Golden Hind

The Golden Hind, a full-size replica of Sir Francis Drake’s famous galleon, is a must-visit attraction in Brixham, Devon. This historic ship offers an immersive experience into 16th-century maritime life, allowing visitors to explore the decks, cabins, and learn about the daring voyages of the Elizabethan era. As a replica of the vessel that circumnavigated the globe between 1577 and 1580, the Golden Hind provides a hands-on insight into exploration, trade, and naval history. Families and history enthusiasts alike will enjoy stepping back in time aboard this iconic ship.

Morwellham Quay

Morwellham Quay is a living history museum and heritage site set along the banks of the River Tamar in Devon. Once a bustling 19th-century port and mining village, it now offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the rich industrial heritage of the region. Tourists can enjoy a guided mine train ride into the George and Charlotte Copper Mine, hands-on traditional crafts, and demonstrations of Victorian life. With costumed actors, historical buildings, and scenic riverside views, it’s an engaging and educational destination for families and history lovers.

Lundy Island

Lundy Island, situated off the coast of North Devon, is a tranquil haven renowned for its rugged natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Visitors are drawn to its dramatic cliffs, peaceful walking trails, and unspoiled landscapes. The island is a sanctuary for wildlife, including puffins, seals, and rare flora, making it a favorite for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Lundy also boasts a fascinating history, with medieval ruins, a 13th-century castle, and a picturesque lighthouse. Offering a unique escape from modern life, Lundy’s charm lies in its remote, serene atmosphere and opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, diving, and exploring its marine reserve.

The House of Marbles in Devon is a fascinating destination showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship behind hand-crafted marbles, some of which can be worth up to £150 due to the incredible skill needed to create intricate shapes like animals, lattices, and swirls within the glass. Visitors can marvel at these miniature works of art and explore how traditional techniques have been adapted to create stunning glass artworks. From the gallery, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the production process, though this is limited to mornings and afternoons—so it’s a good idea to call ahead. Perfect for art enthusiasts and families, it’s a unique and educational experience.

The World of Country Life

The World of Country Life in Exmouth, Devon, is a family-friendly attraction offering a mix of farm animals, vintage vehicles, and interactive activities. Visitors can enjoy feeding and petting animals, watching falconry displays, and exploring a fascinating collection of steam engines and farming equipment. With play areas, a Victorian street, and daily events like goat walking, it’s a delightful day out for families, animal lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Exeter’s Underground Passages

Exeter’s Underground Passages are a network of medieval tunnels originally built to bring fresh water into the city. Visitors can take guided tours through these fascinating passages, learning about their history, construction, and role in Exeter’s past. The experience includes a visitor center with interactive exhibits and displays about medieval engineering. The tours are suitable for history buffs, families, and anyone intrigued by unique, hidden aspects of the city. It’s a memorable way to explore Exeter’s rich heritage from a different perspective.

Exeter Racecourse

The best time to visit Exeter Racecourse is during the National Hunt racing season, which typically runs from October to April. Visitors can enjoy thrilling jump races featuring top-class horses and jockeys, as well as a lively atmosphere with dining, hospitality options, and betting facilities. Special events, family days, and themed race meetings add extra excitement, making it a great outing for racing enthusiasts and families alike.

Lydford Gorge

At Lydford Gorge, visitors can explore the deepest river gorge in the southwest of England, managed by the National Trust. The gorge offers stunning walking trails through ancient woodlands, leading to dramatic natural features like the 30-meter-high Whitelady Waterfall and the swirling Devil’s Cauldron pothole. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery, spot wildlife, and experience the tranquil beauty of nature. Suitable for families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, it’s a perfect spot for a peaceful yet adventurous day out.

Cold Harbour Mill

People visit Coldharbour Mill in Devon to explore one of the oldest working woolen mills in the UK, with a history dating back to 1797. The mill offers a fascinating look into textile production, with original machinery still in operation. Visitors can see demonstrations of weaving, spinning, and steam power, as well as learn about the industrial heritage of the region. It’s a unique experience for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in traditional crafts and engineering.

Quince Honey Farm

Quince Honey Farm in Devon is a family-friendly attraction dedicated to the fascinating world of bees and honey production. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch beekeeping demonstrations, and learn about the life of bees in the Bee Shed. The farm also offers activities like honey tasting, candle rolling, and guided tours of the apiaries. With a soft play area, gardens, and a café serving honey-inspired treats, it’s a fun and educational day out for all ages.

Devon offers an abundance of scenic routes for walking, cycling, and horse riding, catering to all levels of ability. Here are some of the best options:

Walking

1. South West Coast Path: Stretching along Devon’s dramatic coastline, it offers stunning views and routes like the section from Exmouth to Lyme Regis.
2. Dartmoor National Park: Famous for rugged landscapes, highlights include Hay Tor, Hound Tor, and the Two Moors Way.
3. Exmoor National Park: Enjoy moorland trails, wooded valleys, and the coastal walk from Lynmouth to Watersmeet.

Cycling

1. The Tarka Trail: A largely traffic-free, family-friendly route through North Devon’s countryside, covering over 30 miles of former railway.
2. Drake’s Trail: A picturesque cycling path between Tavistock and Plymouth, passing through tunnels and over viaducts.
3. Exe Estuary Trail: A flat, scenic route ideal for families, connecting Exeter to Exmouth and Dawlish, with stunning estuary views.

Riding

1. Dartmoor: Offers numerous bridleways and open-access moorland for horse riding amid stunning landscapes.
2. Exmoor: Features designated horse trails and scenic routes through forests and along ridges.
3. Haldon Forest Park: Close to Exeter, it provides safe, dedicated riding trails suitable for all levels.

These routes allow visitors to experience Devon’s diverse natural beauty, from coastlines to countryside and moorland.

Paignton Zoo in Devon is a fantastic family-friendly attraction and one of the UK’s leading zoos. Visitors can explore habitats housing over 2,500 animals, including lions, gorillas, giraffes, and exotic birds. Highlights include the Savannah exhibit, Crocodile Swamp, and the lush tropical house. The zoo also features interactive talks, play areas for kids, and beautiful botanical gardens. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families looking for an engaging day out while supporting conservation efforts.

Kents Cavern

Kents Cavern in Torquay, Devon, is a prehistoric cave system and one of Europe’s most important Stone Age sites. Visitors can take guided tours through the caves, exploring fascinating rock formations and learning about early human history, including evidence of some of Britain’s earliest inhabitants. The attraction also features a woodland trail, a visitor center with interactive exhibits, and a café. It’s an educational and fun experience for families, history buffs, and geology enthusiasts.

Dartington Crystal

Dartington Crystal, located in Great Torrington, Devon, is the UK’s only remaining large-scale glass factory, renowned for its high-quality, hand-crafted glassware. Visitors can watch skilled craftsmen at work on factory tours, learning about traditional glassblowing techniques. The site also features an interactive visitor experience, showcasing the history of Dartington Crystal and its beautiful designs. Guests can shop for unique glassware and even try glass engraving. 

Scenic railway trips

South Devon Railway is a seven mile former Great Western Railway branch line, built in 1872, which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes and could make a great day out on Devon holidays.

Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway can be a train and boat trip around South Devon. Considered by some as one of the most scenic routes in Europe.

Beer Heights light railway is a miniature railway with fantastic views over Lyme Bay to distant Portland Bill. Set in beautiful Pecorama Pleasure Gardens with a number of other activities.

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway will give you stunning views of Exmoor and the North Devon Coastline as you glide up and down the 862 foot length of track; from Lynmouth nestling at the foot of the cliffs to Lynton perched 500 feet above.