Top 10 Devon Destinations

Devon has always been a tourist hotspot in the UK, whether it’s a day at the beach in Seaton or Beer or a shopping trip to Exeter, Devon is sure to have something for everyone. Take a look at the top 10 Devon destinations.

Axminster 

Most notably famous for its long history of producing exquisite carpets, the bustling market town of Axminster sits close to the River Axe. Ripe with traditional charm, the iconic Saxon Church of St Mary holds prominence in its very own oasis of Minster Green right in the centre of the town. An amble through winding streets showcases the thriving artistic community. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage Canteen promotes a fresh, seasonal menu with its emphasis on local produce. Just beyond the town, Trinity Hill Local Nature Reserve offers up the possibility to encounter deer, otters and kingfishers, amongst the many other woodland creatures, whilst enjoying a walk.

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Beer

Once the home of notorious Devon smuggler Jack Rattenbury, this picture-postcard village boasts a shingle cove where fishing boats are moored between towering chalky cliffs. While its name comes from the Old English for ‘grove’, as oppose to anything to do with beer, the scenic location does indeed make a lovely spot for a pint of ale – or a platter of delicious Beer crab – overlooking Lyme Bay. Or perhaps you’d prefer to pack a picnic and head to the cliff-top Jubilee Gardens, recently named the top picnic spot in the UK by Countryfile magazine.

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Rousdon

The Rousdon Estate is a quaint village, sprung up around a former stately home and now offering over 300 acres of meadows and woodland to explore. Situated on the outskirts of the popular seaside resort of Lyme Regis the estate even has its own private beach only accessible from the grounds. At the heart of the Dorset & Devon stretch of stunning Jurassic coastline this is a great place for walkers and nature lovers alike.

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Sidmouth

A timeless Victorian town with a promenade-backed beach flanked by majestic red cliffs, Sidmouth flaunts all the character of the quintessential British seaside. A very popular resort in the 1800s and visited by Queen Victoria in her youth, it’s a buzzing base from which to explore the geology of the Jurassic Coast, cast away on a kayak, strike out into the verdant Sid Valley, or simply stroll along the seafront and soak up the Regency vibes.

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Branscombe

Step back in time in this historic village tucked away in an idyllic valley that tumbles to the edge of a beach on the Jurassic Coast. Within the National Trust owned estate you can experience the life of a miller at Manor Mill and meet the blacksmith in the Old Forge, then head to the beach to hunt for critters in the rock pools and find the hefty anchor of the MSC Napoli, which grounded here in 2007.

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Seaton 

A traditional seaside town Seaton enjoys a mile long promenade, a great way of strolling along the seafront whilst taking in the white chalk cliffs and panoramic views all the way to Portland.  Cafes at both ends provide refreshment and plenty of spots to rest and reenergise.  Why not catch a tram through the amazing Wetlands, a wildlife lovers dream,  to the historic town of Colyton and its rich historical history. Plenty to do and see Seaton has something for everyone.

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Axmouth

Sitting at the edge of the beautiful Axe Estuary is the small Devon coastal village of Axmouth. As the evening sun sets you can sit and watch the local fishing boats return to the harbour with their daily catch. The estuary and nearby wetlands attract nature lovers from all over the world. There are two great pubs serving Devon ales and fresh local produce cooked to perfection. If you take a 15 minute stroll along the river you can take in the sublime scenery and walk into the Victorian seaside town of Seaton, home to its famous electric tramway.

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Colyton

Nestled in the heart of the Coly Valley, the circular streets of the village of Colyton lead a winding route through historical buildings and an array of local produce sellers and places to eat and drink. The charming atmosphere of the town is sure to bewitch you as you wander through the Saxon-origin streets and further out into the Coly Valley. Colyton is ideally situated just 3 miles inland from the Victorian seaside town of Seaton and the quaint fishing village of Beer.

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Exmouth

One of the oldest seaside towns in Devon this lively resort offers lots of activities to get involved in from water sports and rock-pooling on the longest seafront in Devon and Cornwall, to bird watching and walking on the nature reserve. Exmouth boasts some wonderful food and drink outlets with celebrity chefs and stunning restaurants serving the freshest local fish and delicious locally farmed Exmouth mussels.

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Exeter 

Originating from a Roman Town the vibrant city of Exeter is a great day out. Visit the breathtaking cathedral or the modern, lively quay, home to lots of eateries and cafes. Take a walk through the high street home to local artisans and many large shops such as John Lewis. There are an abundance of activities to enjoy such as rock climbing, Bowling and 2 Cinemas.

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