How to spend a weekend in Devon
Devon is well-known for its beautiful beaches, incredible national parks, water sport opportunities and a growing foodie scene - making it one of the best choices for a UK staycation this year. We’ve even put together a list of the best day trips and things to do in the area - from North Devon to East Devon and everything in between - so all that you have to do is focus on packing your bags!
Check out the beaches
Whether travelling with friends, family or even alone, get yourself to the golden sands! One of our favourites has to be Woolacombe beach – it’s large enough for the big crowds that flock here in the finer weather and there’s something to do for everyone.
If you’re looking to go for a swim or just a paddle, run around with the dog, take part in water sports, or sunbathe – it’s perfect. The beach is also suitable for pushchairs and has parking – so you can bring the whole family. There are lifeguards from Easter until September, for that extra peace of mind when using the water too.
Alternatively, if you just want to swim, then Broadsands beach is where you need to be. It’s a pebble beach with safe swimming waters nestled in a scenic cove. It’s also great for exploring as it’s full of tunnels and caves to swim into.
Go to Plymouth Gin Distillery
While this one might not be for the kids amongst the group, us adults have got to have some fun on the visit in Devon, right?!
Plymouth Gin Distillery offers three different tours and has a shop and a cocktail lounge. It’s inside the Black Friar’s building, which dates back to the early 1400’s, making it one of the oldest buildings in Plymouth. So you can tick off a little history lesson too.
During your visit, you’ll get to meet Sean Harrison – Plymouth Gin’s Master Distiller and global ambassador and keeper of their coveted 200-year-old recipe. You’ll have the chance to make your own gin, learn about the history of the distillery, find out about the distillation process and even discover some of the botanicals used, before taking part in a tasting session. Delicious.
Visit River Dart Country Park
River Dart Country Park is set in 90 acres of parkland within Dartmoor Country Park - offering excellent walks and water sports activities. Pack a picnic, make sure you’ve got enough games to keep everyone entertained and head off to find the perfect spot for the entire day.
It also contains toilets, showers, and cafes so you really can spend a good few hours here. And, when it comes to activities, there’s laser clay pigeon shooting, canoeing, kayaking, zip wire, high ropes and much more.
Visit Dartmoor Prison Museum
Known to have housed some of the country’s most dangerous criminals – the notorious Dartmoor Prison Museum is a fascinating (and sometimes chilling) day out.
You’ll learn about its 200-year past which includes the Princetown Massacre and the daring escape, as well as the consequent manhunt of Frank ‘the Mad Axeman’ Mitchell.
Check out South Devon Chilli Farm
Set in the rolling Devon Hills, South Devon Chilli Farm is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Here, you can enjoy tours where you’ll learn about the history of the development and how it was set up, the different types of chillies, the various chilli products and how they can be used. You may even come away with some top tips on how to grow your own chillies and look after chilli plants.
That’s not all either as there’s an optional chilli challenge - where you can sample a range of fresh chillies in varying heats. Good luck! Plus, when you visit, it’s not hard to see why so many celebs are fans of this place, including Jamie Oliver and Rick Stein. Gillian Anderson also swears by their chilli chocolate – you best try some if you visit!
Go on some hikes and walks
Devon is the perfect place to explore on foot – whether you’re looking for a stroll or a 100-mile hike. Adventure through beautiful countryside, river valleys and picturesque coastline - and don’t forget your camera.
Choose from the 205 miles of the South West Coast Path if you’re feeling adventurous or check out Exmoor or Dartmoor National Park for a range of walks to choose from. What’s more, there’s even something for the kids and four-legged children!
Visit Babbacombe Model Village
Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay is a popular attraction in Devon, set in 4 acres of gardens. You’ll feel like a giant (and have a good laugh) as you explore the miniature model village, representing British life and culture over the last 5 decades.
It’s been open for 58 years and has 426 miniature buildings as well as miniature landscaped gardens. There’s also a coffee shop (real-life size) so you can tuck into some cake when you’re done exploring.
Go to the pub for a drink or a roast
While there’s plenty of things to do in Devon, you can't go wrong by sitting in a pub and enjoying the delicious food and drink on offer. And that’s what Devon is perfect for - as it’s home to plenty of country pubs. Many of them even date back hundreds of years including The Cridford Inn, which is Devon’s oldest surviving pub (it’s over 1000 years old).
The area is also home to the ‘highest’ pub in Southern England, The Warren House Inn, which sits at 434m above sea level. Ideal for rainy days, sunny afternoons and even just a quick pit-stop, many of the pubs in Devon are family-friendly and dog-friendly meaning no-one’s left out either. We recommend trying the famous local cream tea or some fish and chips to really experience everything Devon has to offer.
Of course, the perfect break in Devon will be made complete with the perfect holiday cottage. And that’s exactly where we can help you out. High Tides offers a luxury and contemporary beachside break for the whole family and, when you see the uninterrupted views, we guarantee you’ll be back for more.