Top Things to do in Devon
Countries
Things to do in Devon, England: The Best Sports Complexes
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. Buckfastleigh Open Air Pool
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
2. Prime Skatepark
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Prime Skatepark is Plymouth's only indoor skatepark that is entirely designed, built and maintained by industry professional riders.
3. Ashburton Swimming Pool
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
Ashburton Swimming Pool is a beautiful outdoor heated pool that is open from May until September. It is 21 x 9m is heated to about 27C. The pool appeals to children and adults alike with various sessions and membership options available. It is found in the heart of the historic South Devon town of Ashburton, nestled on the southern side of the vast Dartmoor National Park. There is a lovely field for picnics and games next to the pool and a small cafe run by volunteers for drinks and snacks. There are also a wide selection of cafes, pubs and deli's in the town itself. The nearest parking is the public car park in the centre of Ashburton, which is about 5 minutes walk away. The pool is run by volunteers from the community and is a charity.
4. Moretonhampstead Community Swimming Pool
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Moretonhampstead Swimming Pool is open from May through to September. Our fabulous 25m outdoor pool is solar heated so you can swim comfortably even when the sun is hiding behind the clouds. The pool offers a grassed social area, and a timetable that offers a daily general swim for all, lane swimming, aqua fit sessions, swimming lessons, technique coaching, and water polo.
5. North Devon Archery Academy
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
At North Devon Archery Academy we believe in delivering archery sessions which are safe, fun, instructive and inspirational. We believe that anyone who has the desire to try archery, can do archery, regardless of age or ability. Led by LV3 qualified coach. For all ages. Parties, team building days, holiday maker experiences.
Reviewed By sallyjh202 - Devon, United Kingdom
We have just had a brilliant archery session with Luke. It was an early Father's Day surprise for my husband and it was amazing! We paid just £36 for an hour session in which my husband, our 24 and 5 year old girls and I had a brilliant time. I would have paid at least double! Luke was brilliant with our 5 year old and made sure the session was great fun, shooting balloons, playing team challenges and much more. I would recommend North Devon Archery, and in particular, Luke to anyone looking for a fun, family orientated activity. Thanks so much Luke.
6. The Lodge Indoor Skatepark
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
A hidden Gem...Fantastic, friendly Indoor Skatepark and cafe centrally located in Newton Abbot, Devon. Non-profit Charity organisation run by enthusiastic volunteers for the love of wheeled sports! Car parking, cosy cafe and seating are area awaits parents who wish to spectate as their young ones hit the ramps testing their skills and abilities in this safe indoor facility. Party and group hire available. Coaching sessions for all disciplines on certain evenings for all abilities. Hot food and snacks available at Cafe Lodge or just a great cup of Coffee! Equipment and helmet hire also available for those who just want to give it a go..
7. The Quay Climbing Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 87 reviews
There is climbing for everyone at the South West's largest dedicated indoor climbing wall. We have walls ranging from 7 to 15 metres in height and over 200 climbs to challenge everyone from novices to the most experienced climbers. Come along and have a go - join a taster session or one of our holiday clubs! Experience the thrill of climbing whatever the weather in the heart of Exeter.
Reviewed By Louiisej44 - The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, United Kingdom
We did the Clip & Climb section which is great fun for both kids and adults. It has 25 different climbing routes to try out which offer a great challenge. It costs £12.95 (per adult) for the hour which is really good value for money. The facilities were extremely clean and hygiene measures had been put in place for Covid19. The staff are also really friendly and helpful.
8. Shoalstone Pool
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 133 reviews
Shoalstone Sea Water Pool is an iconic feature of the South Devon Coast, being one of only a few remaining sea water pools in the country. Open May to September each year, with lifeguards on duty from 10am to 6pm every day, the 50m outdoor seawater pool is the perfect place to relax, take a dip and enjoy the fantastic views of Torbay. Facilities include a car park, changing rooms, outdoor shower, lockers and sunloungers or deckchairs to hire. Nearby there’s a kiosk and also Shoals Cafe for drinks and food to eat in or take away. (These are independent of the pool.) The pool is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and supported by the local community. There is no entry charge, but we ask for a voluntary donation of £2 per swim or £5 per family to help cover our running costs. Occasionally the pool will be closed for cleaning or for special events – please check our social media channels for up-to-date information. We do not have a contact phone number. We look forward to seeing you!
Reviewed By rodaholiday - Quadra Island, Canada
nice big pool, chilly and refreshing. limited facilities but its about the location. There is a big car park
9. Chagford Swimming Pool
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 28 reviews
Chagford Pool is a unique friendly 34 metre river fed pool, set on the banks of the Teign in lovely countryside just outside Chagford. We are open every afternoon, with additional opportunities for Adults to swim Lengths. Please look at our website for our full timetable. The very soft water is warmed by air source heat pumps and maintained by solar covers, and is approximately 26 degrees. Qualified lifeguards are always in attendance and the Snack Shack serves wholefood nibbles and lovely tray bakes. The under 5s paddling pool has a range of toy boats and watering cans.
Reviewed By 460nels
Fantastic pool, in a superb setting. We have spent many an afternoon there with young children. The lifeguards are very friendly and make sure everyone is safe, whilst allowing fun.
10. Super Tramp Plymouth
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 60 reviews
Super Tramp Plymouth is Devon's one of biggest Trampoline parks offering over 50 trampolines and different activities all in one place! Whilst here you are able to use our free jump area which is 24 trampolines all connected, the slam dunk area, big air bag, dodgeball court, performance trampolines and "The Wall". *For a more detailed view of our opening times please follow; https://supertrampplymouth.co.uk/table
Reviewed By aa2wales - Cardiff, United Kingdom
I’ve been to quite a few different trampoline places. Supertramp is small but clean and staff are very friendly. I felt that the staff were definitely on the ball safety wise and interacted with the children. Visited during an off peak session. Not sure how it would be on a busy day but my 7 and 5 year old had a great time
