If you’re looking for the perfect place for a family holiday in the UK, then look no further. Visit South Devon – we have everything you need and whatever the weather, there is always something to do.
1. Lovely Beaches
Devon boasts a wealth of beautiful beaches that can be enjoyed all year round – many have gained the Blue Flag award, including Dawlish Warren (which also has an internationally protected nature reserve). Exmouth, Teignmouth and Torbay also have popular sandy beaches that tourists throng to in summertime.
2. The Moors
Dartmoor National Park is famous for its beauty, mystery and, of course, its lovely Dartmoor ponies. The Dartmoor Treasure Trail, involving a mystery inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle’s Hound of the Baskervilles, which was famously set on the Moors, is a great way to get the kids excited. The trail is suitable for both pushchairs and wheelchair users.
3. Local History
When visiting Devon, the impressive city of Exeter is a must. Once a Roman town, Exeter has a vast history. You can walk around the city walls, or go on the underground passages tour, which allows you to explore medieval passages under the High Street. Whilst in Exeter you can also visit the magnificent cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, founded in the 11th century. Devon is full of museums, with almost every major town having their own, so is great for educational trips.
4. Train Trips
Devon is particularly proud of its trains and the rich history of the railway. Dartmouth Steam Railway, South Devon Railway and Devon Railway Centre are all local attractions where you can learn about the railway – perfect for fascinated kids. You can read more about why South Devon is a steam train lovers paradise here.
5. Lots of Adventure
If you are looking for a fun-filled visit, Devon offers a variety of adventure centres including Crealy Adventure Park and Woodlands, Clip n Climb Exeter and Go Ape! Haldon. Crealy is particularly popular, suitable for rain or shine, offering slides, aerial walkways, climbing nets, swings and interactive animal shows.
6. Animals Galore
Devon is chock-full of animal-based activities, from miniature pigs to tigers! Pennywell Farm cannot be missed – a fun and educational farm where children can meet and hold various animals, including the famously adorable Pennywell miniature piglets. Paignton Zoo is most definitely worth a visit, with around 2,500 animals across 80 acres, you can expect to see giraffes, elephants, tigers, lions, meerkats and much more. Read more about the amazing animal adventures you can have in Devon.
7. Historical Castles
You would be remiss to visit Devon without seeing at least one of its many castles. Powderham, Drogo, Berry Pomeroy, Totnes and Tiverton are all must-sees. Powderham Castle is particularly lovely, offering acres of land set in the centre of a deer park. Visitors can see the deer on the Deer Park Safari. It also offers nature and treasure trails too, as well as a play area and pets corner.
8. Walks and Cycling
Devon is home to some beautiful scenery and stunning views, both on the coastline and within its picture-perfect villages. You can find cycle tracks and walking trails all over the county, so you can explore wherever you like. Haldon Forest Park or Stover Country Park both offer opportunities for this, making South Devon perfect for a walking or cycling holiday.
9. Food and Shopping
Most towns in South Devon feature local, boutique shops for you to investigate. Exeter also has an excellent shopping scene, with all the shops you would expect and more. Totnes is a particularly charming town, full of interesting shops and tea rooms. You cannot leave Devon without having one of their famed Devon cream teas.
10. Picturesque Villages
Devon has many beautiful chocolate-box villages with thatched cottages and beautiful scenery. Cockington village offers horse and cart trips, lakeside walks and has a craft centre; Widdecome-in-the-Moor is a lovely village to stop for a cream tea when you are on a day out to Dartmoor, and Shaldon is a quaint fishing village with pubs and eateries a-plenty, with an unusual underground tunnel walk to Ness beach.
Staying at Welcome Family’s first-class South Devon holiday park means that you’ll be close to all kinds of adventures. Simply book online or call us on 03451 656265.
