Top Things to do in Devon
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The 10 Best Nature & Wildlife Tours in Devon, England
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. Stuart Line Cruises
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 801 reviews
So much of Devon is available by road but what about the stunning scenery and wildlife only visible by boat? Ensure you don’t miss out on one of Devon's top things to do and take a trip with Stuart Line Cruises. Sailing all year round, you can set sail and explore the rich wildlife and breathtaking views of the River Exe or set sail back 250 million years exploring the Jurassic Coast Line. We even offer day trips out where you can leave the car behind and sail to a local resort such as Torquay or Brixham. Our boats are spacious, warm and come with all the creature comforts including toilets, bar and panoramic views from both top and bottom decks. There really is no excuse not to discover the history, beauty and wildlife of Devon!
2. Ilfracombe Sea Safari
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 717 reviews
Ilfracombe Sea Safari is a fantastic way to see the wildlife and vast expanse of beautiful coastline that North Devon has to offer. Come along on and enjoy one of our 4 tailor made rib experiences. From a stunning 1 hour coastal cruise to a 4 hour voyage to the unique Island of Lundy where you get to encounter the 200 resident grey seals.
3. Funfish Trips
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 174 reviews
Quality fishing trips, Wildlife cruises and the Teignmouth - Torbay Round Robin. Torquay, Paignton, Brixham & Teignmouth. Family run, knowledgeable and passionate - come see how WE do boat trips!
4. Pedalpaddle
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Now at Port Royal, Larkbeare Road, Exeter on the weirpath you can hire the fantastic pedalpaddle boards for hour or part hour to explore the river exe or the exeter ship canal. Easy to learn and master. Great for group hire too. Telephone before setting off to ensure craft available. Safaris, schools, charity fund raising events, corporate fun and team building, stag and hen parties, keep fit sessions. Book now! WHY NOT JOIN THE PEDALPADDLE CLUB where you can pay £30 per annum to include the first hour hire plus half price for subsequent hires to include "bring a friend" for the same price!!! BOOK NOW!!!
5. Devon Sea Safari
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 189 reviews
Sailing from the historic South Devon town of Teignmouth. Experience the wonders of South Devon’s coastline and its magnificent wildlife from our passenger RIB. Suitable for all ages and abilities. Our tours offer a safe and informative boat trip looking at wildlife,geology and local history.
6. Winding River Canoe
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 77 reviews
Winding River Canoe is a Devon based canoe company specialising in guided canoeing trips. The aim of these trips is to give you a break from your busy life, to relax, go slow, and to experience the magic of the river world. We offer: Evening Paddles and BBQ, Day paddles, Canoe Picnics, Weekend Safaris, Multi-day Canoe/Camping, Bushcraft-canoeing, Childrens Parties, Stag/Hen Weekends... You don't need to know how to canoe to come on one of our trips - most of our trips are suitable for novices. The basics are easy to learn and you'll soon be paddling in a straight(ish) line! Our experienced river guides are not only fully qualified British Canoe Union instructors, but also friendly and accommodating, with an intimate knowledge of the river. You can either: - book on one of the calendar trips - book as a private group Bookings for our trip are possible via our website.
7. 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.
8. Easy Divers North Devon
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 41 reviews
Easy Divers is North Devon's only PADI scuba diving training facility and also offers trips to Lundy island to dive with the Seals. These trips are open to qualified and unqualified divers aged 12+, subject to a medical form and terms and conditions apply. Local shore dives and other try dive experiences are also available.
9. Inward Adventures
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
An opportunity to experience and learn about yourself in beautiful outdoor and Adventurous environments.
10. Sound Diving
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Sound Diving, established in 1985, is a family-friendly dive centre located in Plymouth with over 20 years experience around the world. We welcome all abilities, from beginner to pro, and all ages. We believe that everyone is equal underwater, and it's this inclusivity that keeps our customers coming back year after year. Check out our website for more details.
