Places to visit in Devon
The possibilities in Devon are limitless, from thrilling water sports to horseback riding, exploring castles, museums, and stately homes. Nature enthusiasts will love the parks and wildlife reserves, but the villages, towns and cities of Devon also hold a treasure trove of fun.
As historically fascinating and full of activities as they are picturesque, Devon's towns and villages promise an authentic and unforgettable experience. Join us as we dive into the most beautiful towns and villages that Devon has to offer. You’re sure to uncover some hidden gems, both on the coast and inland.
Torquay
Located along the English Riviera, one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations, Torquay offers a perfect blend of seaside charm and vibrant culture. You can stroll along palm-lined promenades, explore the historic Torre Abbey, or take a boat trip from the bustling harbour.
With its sandy beaches and a range of attractions, Torquay is an ideal day trip for families and those seeking coastal elegance.
Paignton
Under an hour’s drive from Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, Paignton is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and the popular Paignton Zoo. The long sandy beach provides a picturesque setting for relaxation, and the Paignton Pier offers classic seaside amusements. Don't miss a ride on the Dartmouth Steam Railway for a scenic journey through the beautiful South Devon countryside.
Plymouth
Steeped in maritime history, Plymouth’s historic Barbican area, home to cobbled streets, independent shops, and the Mayflower Steps. The Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe offer panoramic views of the waterfront, best enjoyed with a side of fish & chips. Additionally, families can enjoy the National Marine Aquarium and learn about the city's naval heritage at one of the excellent museums.
Dawlish
Known for its iconic black swans, charming coastal setting, and wonderful golden sand beach, Dawlish is a peaceful setting. Visitors can stroll along the Dawlish Water, a brook that runs through the town, and enjoy the manicured gardens. The Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve, with its sand dunes and wildlife, is also a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Exeter
An inland city with a rich history and modern vibrancy, Exeter boasts the stunning Exeter Cathedral and the historic Underground Passages. The Quayside area offers a delightful mix of shops, cafes, pubs and cultural attractions. Explore the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Exeter Canal.
Exmouth
Located where the River Exe meets the sea, within walking distance of Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, Exmouth is known for its long sandy beach and vibrant seafront. Families can enjoy the Exmouth Model Railway, explore the Jurassic Coast on a boat trip, or indulge in water sports. The charming marina and the nearby A La Ronde, a unique 18th-century 16-sided house, add to Exmouth's allure.
Sidmouth
Sidmouth is graced with a timeless elegance, featuring regency architecture and beautiful gardens. The Connaught Gardens offer stunning views of the coastline, and Jacob's Ladder Beach with its iconic red cliffs provides a picturesque spot for relaxation. Visitors can explore the charming town centre, known for its independent shops and tea rooms, all making for a quintessential English seaside experience.
Croyde
It wouldn’t be fair to make a list of the best places to visit in Devon without including a number from the county’s ruggedly beautiful north coast. It’s a ‘Two Coast County’ after all, and it’s Croyde that makes the cut for us.
A real breath of fresh air, Croyde lies within the North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers up the chance to lounge on some excellent sandy beaches and fix your eyes on some truly spectacular scenery. It’s not all about relaxation in Croyde though. The town is also known as the surfing capital of North Devon, and one of the finest places to surf in the UK, so whether you’re an expert, or you’ve never stepped foot on a board before, it’s time to get the swimwear on and hit the waves.
Dartmoor
It was a tough choice which of Devon’s national parks to include on this list, but in this author’s opinion, if you can only visit one, it has to be Dartmoor. If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then you should look no further than the majestic Dartmoor National Park. Dartmoor is a magical, ancient area, filled with deep valleys, spectacular rock formations and fast-flowing rivers.
If you need more than just hiking to keep you entertained then Dartmoor also offers up cycle routes, horse riding, climbing, and even water sports, so the whole family can stay active. Just a 40-minute drive from the coast, Dartmoor is a wonderful inland option on your Devonian adventure and is perhaps the best place to visit in Devon if you want to immerse yourself in nature.
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Important information
Brand new holiday homes from £34,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom ABI New Horizon holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 19 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Church Farm, Cala Gran, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seashore, Seaview and Thornwick Bay.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
New holiday homes from £33,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £33,995 and will remain at this price until all available stock is sold.
The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at Berwick, Burnham-on-Sea, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Hafan y Mor, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Reighton Sands, Seton Sands and Weymouth Bay.
Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995
Holiday home price is based on a Bronze Grade pre-owned holiday home 6 years or older and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Cala Gran, Church Farm, Cardigan View, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Orchards, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Riviere Sands, Seashore, Seaview, Skegness and Thornwick Bay.
Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2031
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
“Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed or equivalent or superior grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. It is available across 40% of eligible Parks and applies when letting a new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home (or equivalent or superior grade for 15 weeks.
An example of how “Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Primrose Valley with a monthly site fee of £585.00 (includes purchasing discount of £45) and monthly letting income of £803.67. The monthly difference equates to £218.67, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Atlas Sahara 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.