Top Things to do in Devon
Countries
10 Classes & Workshops in Devon That You Shouldn't Miss
From the wilds of Dartmoor to the wooded hillsides of the Lyn Valley, Devon is undoubtedly one of England's most beautiful counties. Its overwhelmingly rural landscape means that catered accommodation is restricted to over-subscribed Bed and Breakfasts and hotels which are mostly concentrated in towns like Exeter and Barnstaple.
Devon is a great location for a family holiday in the great outdoors, with everything from beach resorts at Ilfracombe to rambling in the hills of Exmoor and tors of Dartmoor. It is a large county, but whether you want to follow the Tarka Trail, or walk down the Doone Valley, you can be sure there will be cottages open for holiday rentals nearby.
Most of Devon's holiday rental cottages started as farm buildings of some sort, and planning restrictions mean that many of them retain their rural charm on the outside. However, the cottages are generally renovated to 21st Century standards inside, with double glazing, TV, washing machines and fully-equipped kitchens. Families are well catered for in the higher end properties with games rooms, sometimes including full-size pool tables and large gardens for children to explore.
Despite the unpredictability of Devon's weather even during the summer months, the comfort of these properties gives great peace of mind. Moreover, a week's holiday rental of a cottage in Devon can cost as little as £300 - £400. During the peak season you can spend as much as £900 a month for one of the larger or more luxurious cottages, which still works out to be cheaper than a lot of hotels, especially if you have to book several rooms to accommodate a family of four or five.
To get the best of Devon's startling countryside and its friendly communities, renting a holiday cottage near Lynton and Lynmouth can be a good start. It is a useful base from which to explore North Devon, and is within walking distance of several beauty spots, such as Watersmeet (complete with a small but impressive waterfall) and the Valley of the Rocks. Separated by a steep cliff, you can travel up a funicular railway from coastal Lynmouth to clifftop Lynton, with plenty of stunning walks, shopping opportunities and several beaches and boat trips to nearby coastal attractions.
The twin villages also boast a concentration of well-equipped holiday cottages, from modest fisherman's cottages on the path to Watersmeet to grander hillside houses on the way to the Valley of the Rocks. Whatever your budget, Lynton and Lynmouth can provide some tempting accommodation options for your first Devon holiday.
Restaurants in Devon
1. Manna from Devon Cooking School
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 61 reviews
A family run cooking school established in 2006 and overlooking the River Dart. We specialise in Bread, Fish, Mediterranean and Asian Cuisines and Wood-fired Oven Cooking. Holiday times will feature Family Classes aimed at inspiring youngsters to cook.Our classes are small, friendly, very much hands on and designed to inspire both budding and experienced cooks to explore new areas and expand their repertoires.
Reviewed By Tilly2934 - Bournemouth, United Kingdom
I booked onto the Mastering your oven course in the hope that not only would it help with my pizza disasters but also give me additional ideas for my oven. This course did not disappoint! From arrival there was a warm welcome from Holly and David, we were provided with copious amounts of coffee and tea. After brief introductions the cooking began and we were fed throughout the day with amazing food all cooked in the wood fired oven. In addition, we made our own pizza dough which we were expertly guided through at every stage and shown how to shape like the experts (well David made it look easy anyway). Having made our own pizzas we were then treated to a full lunch! And pud! (With wine for those not driving). From booking the course, communication has been great and we were taught in an easy going humorous manner by clearly very knowledgable masters in their field. David who for our day was front of house managed to answer all questions fired at him whilst Holly worked tirelessly prepping all of the food in the background. I do not hesitate in recommending anyone attending one of Manna of Devon courses if you want to get the best out of your oven - you will go home with the confidence to tackle anything. Thank you both for a great experience.
2. Seagreen of appledore
3. Wilderfox
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 33 reviews
Tap into the primal roots of your ancestors and learn new skills. Have a go at archery, axe throwing, fire lighting, survival skills and loads more! Wilderfox specialises in Outdoor Activities, Team Building sessions and Groups bookings.
4. Torquay Watersports
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
RibRides and Rib Charters from Torquay. Want a day out on the water, an exhilarating ride or to take in the local scenery - then look no further. Also a fully certified RYA powerboat training school.
5. Tarka Pottery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 180 reviews
TARKA POTTERY North Devon An exciting and inspiring clay experience studio where there is always something creative happening. Just a 5 minute drive from RHS Rosemoor Gardens and Dartington Crystal in Great Torrington. Try a Potter's Wheel Experience, book a potter' wheel lesson, join a workshop or sign up for weekly pottery classes. You can also paint pottery, a relaxing activity at any time. Our approach is relaxed and informal, with an emphasis on having fun and being creative with clay in a friendly, enjoyable way. Activities suitable for families, adults, children, clients with carers and equally a great day out for individuals, groups and good for couples too. Birthday and hen parties offered all year round. We’re surrounded by beautiful countryside and animals, with stunning views, Get in touch to book or to find out more. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Reviewed By 301ks - Dore, United Kingdom
Booked as an activity for two teenagers. Great family experience all had great Fun and laughs at the varying degrees of success creating pots. Brilliant tuition from Lynn who explained what we were doing extremely well. Spent another hour decorating and glazing the pots. All very Covid safe with distancing in place. Highly recommend
6. Ashburton Cookery School - Day Courses
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 83 reviews
The Ashburton Cookery School is one of the UK's top cookery schools offering inspirational cookery courses, lead by professional chefs, from our modern training centre in Devon. With over 40 cookery courses to choose from, designed to suit beginners as well as experienced home cooks we will teach you to cook with imagination, passion and enjoyment. If you want to take your cookery skills to the next level we have a cookery course for you.
Reviewed By Mumanddaughter2 - Plymouth, United Kingdom
My daughter and I did a baking weekend course and I can honestly say what an amazing weekend we had. The chef, teacher was called Michael and he was so knowledgeable and friendly and showed us step by step what to do. The lovely Lily catered to our every need and did all the dishes with a smile ???? and we can away with so many fabulous goodies and new skills. The covid restrictions that were out In place were fantastic and we felt safe and cared for the whole weekend. The hotel they recommended to stay in is also fantastic and we will definitely be returning. Thank you so much ????????
7. Axminster Skill Centre - Axminster
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 51 reviews
Axminster Skill Centre is a hub of learning and practical creativity, offering a range of woodworking, woodturning, carving and engineering courses. Our tutors are experienced and well versed in their respective crafts; many of them are professional demonstrators and able to deliver their courses with a clear, informative and enthusiastic approach. Our courses are designed to cater for small groups of no more than five or six students, ensuring each will receive a high standard of tuition and plenty of one-to-one attention. And with their newfound confidence, students often return to build on what they have learned and progress to a higher level of skill.
Reviewed By TomsDad2
This was my second visit to Axminster Skills Centre having previously attended the 2 day router course 3 years ago. I was so impressed then with the excellent training facilities at Axminster coupled with the vast knowledge, tremendous skill and invaluable experience of the tutors I vowed to return when time permits. Now I am retired I decided on a new venture for me of pen turning. After just one superb day spent in a dedicated lathe workshop, 4 other students and a first class tutor in Ben, I produced pens that shocked my wife in total amazement. I will be looking at the other courses offered here at Axminster as my experience so far has been 5 star with the tutors achieving the perfect balance of a relaxed yet safe environment in which all students can learn at their own pace. ASC really is a centre of excellence for woodworking. Well done to all staff and management for creating a great place to learn.
8. Basic Bushcraft
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
Learn the basics to living in the wild. Fire lighting, safe management of water, shelters, tree and plant identification. Safe use of sharp tools, knives, axes and saws. We also teach archery, navigation and can facilitate team building and learning. Our aim is fun and lots of learning. Plenty of hands on learning and time to develop your skills.
Reviewed By Somerset_UKVicky
WoW!! What a fantastic experience we had with making fire by friction. Steve n his partner Lin provided us with comfort, knowledgable instruction and a magical atmosphere in an ancient woodland in Devon. A must for outdoor enthusiasts of any age. We’ll be going back for more. Thank you Steve n Lin.
9. Paper Bird Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 34 reviews
Paper Bird Island is a creative paradise situated in the beautiful South Devon coastal town of Salcombe. A space to inspire and encourage the inner child in everyone!
Reviewed By Popsywop
Paper Bird Island is a delight. I feel like my children have grown up coming here as we have come every time we have stayed in Salcombe and that’s for a good few years! We popped in yesterday and Alice recognised us straight away which was lovely. The atmosphere and calm in such a beautifully decorated place is not something that could ever be replicated by a national chain and it’s people like Alice that make Salcombe so special. The price for the items you make is spot on. When you come here you are not only making a beautiful handmade piece but your little ( or big) people are making lovely memories. Alice is on hand to advise and having a cup of tea or coffee and being able to bring your dog too is wonderful. Thankyou Alice - we ll be back next time we are in Salcombe . :)))
10. The Old Kennels - Courses
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 44 reviews
Pure creative indulgence & relaxation in good company and beautiful countryside see our website for details of all our current courses. Classes are tutored by local, national and international professional craftspeople and are designed to be attended either as a single day, or to interact with other days, to allow you continuity and further development, if you so wish. We also have beautiful four star accommodation on site and are Green Tourism Gold/Green Leaders Platinum award holders.
Reviewed By Copperhare
I had a lovely two days sitting and learning to draw maps with Jim, it was fun and absorbing and fascinating to see some of the maps he's worked on, Tracey made wonderful lunches, a really enjoyable couple of days!
