25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Devon, England
Devon, the darling of England's South West, captivates staycationers with its diverse landscapes: misty moors, idyllic harbour villages, expansive sandy beaches framed by towering fossil cliffs, upscale yachting havens, affluent seaside resorts, lush meadows threaded by winding lanes, and charming thatched cottages. Discover 25 of the most stunning places to visit in Devon.
1. Torquay – A Premier Seaside Resort on the English Riviera
Mention a trip to Devon, and Torquay often comes up first. This resort blends classic British seaside charm with a touch of elegance. Stroll the pier, relax on the sandy beach with traditional treats, and explore its genteel Victorian vibe alongside authentic fishing town character.
For Agatha Christie fans, follow the 'Agatha Christie Mile' trail, inspired by sights from her life—spot the blue plaques along the way.
Our Recommended Stay in Torquay – South Sands Beach House
- To book, check dates or prices for South Sands Beach House
2. Beer and Lyme Bay – A Picturesque Village Amid White Chalk Cliffs
Beer's white houses and stone fishermen's cottages create a postcard-perfect scene. Renowned for mackerel fishing, it offers fresh seafood at local restaurants. Part of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, the beach reveals red sandstone cliffs and potential fossils.
Our Recommended Stay in Beer and Lyme Bay – The Margarets
- To book, check prices or dates for The Margarets in Beer
3. Dartmouth – South Devon's Enchanting Nautical Gem
At the River Dart's mouth, Dartmouth buzzes with maritime heritage. Fishing boats mingle with superyachts, while pastel houses, indie shops, and cosy cafés line the streets—a true taste of Devon's seafaring soul.
Our Recommended Stay in Dartmouth – The Glasshouse
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4. Dartmoor National Park – The UK's Last Great Wilderness
Beyond heather-clad moors, Dartmoor hides Iron Age remnants, druid monuments, and ancient obelisks. Vast and serene year-round, it's ideal for peaceful hikes and solitude.
Our Recommended Stay in Dartmoor – Bovey Castle
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Our Visit to Dartmoor in Devon
5. Clovelly – A Steep, Picturesque Fishing Village
Clovelly's car-free, cobbled streets wind steeply from the harbour, lined with colourful cottages. Pause at halfway teahouses or quayside pubs for a traditional Devon cream tea.
Our Recommended Stay near Clovelly – Atlantic House
- To book, check prices or dates for Atlantic House Clovelly
6. Bantham Beach – An Unspoilt Devon Paradise
Pristine sands, gentle tides, and shallow waters make Bantham ideal for families and dogs. Its expansive beach ensures plenty of space.
Our Recommended Stay near Bantham Beach – Brightham House Boutique Bed & Breakfast
- To book, check prices or dates for Brightham House Boutique Bed & Breakfast
7. Salcombe – A Stunning Coastal Haven
Salcombe's calm estuary evokes the Mediterranean, with shallow waters, sandy beaches, mariner pubs, and al fresco dining overlooking the sea.
Our Recommended Stay in Salcombe – Gara Rock
- To book, check prices or dates for Gara Rock Salcombe
8. Lynmouth Harbour and Lynton – England's Little Switzerland
Perched on dramatic hills, Lynton and Lynmouth offer cliff railway rides, breathtaking walks, and excellent dining—perfect after conquering the slopes.
Our Recommended Stay in Lynton – Bayview Tower
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9. Combesgate Beach and Woolacombe – Rock Pools and Golden Sands
Combesgate's rock pools teem with marine life at low tide; Woolacombe's three-mile golden beach is a surfing hotspot.
Our Recommended Stay in Woolacombe – Cozy Beachside Apartment
- To book, check prices or dates for Cozy beachside apartment in Woolacombe
10. Blackpool Sands – A Sheltered, Caribbean-Like Cove
Privately managed with fine shale 'sand,' this tranquil bay near Dartmouth offers peaceful coves away from crowds.
Our Recommended Stay near Blackpool Sands – Villa 1, Estura
- To book, check prices or dates for Villa 1, Estura
11. Appledore – A Charming Fishing Village with Shipbuilding Heritage
Cobbled streets lead to courtyards, craft shops, and fresh seafood. Visit the yacht club or explore its maritime legacy.
Our Recommended Stay in Appledore – Shoreline
- To book, check prices or dates for Shoreline Appledore
12. Slapton Sands and Torcross – Pebble Beach with History and Nature
This two-mile pebble stretch features a nature reserve with rare birds, plus WWII D-Day history. Torcross offers serene lakeside views.
Our Recommended Stay near Slapton Sands – Coach House Cottage
- To book, check prices or dates for Coach House Cottage
13. Branscombe – England's Longest Village in an AONB
In the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, explore National Trust sites, thatched cottages, and scenic countryside walks.
Our Recommended Stay near Branscombe – Pottery Barn
- To book, check prices or dates for Pottery Barn
14. Croyde – Surf Haven with Dramatic Scenery
Surfers flock to its wide beach, backed by thatched pubs that host live music. Retains wild charm amid growing popularity.
Our Recommended Stay in Croyde – Perrymans Cottage Georgeham
- To book, check prices or dates for Perrymans Cottage Georgeham
15. Brixham – Vibrant Harbour Town on the English Riviera
Working harbour, pirate tours, and a replica Golden Hind await. Charter a boat or hunt smuggler's coves.
16. Bigbury-on-Sea – Family-Friendly Beach Destination
Shallow waters perfect for paddling, with cafés serving local surf 'n' turf.
17. Saunton Sands – Golden Coast Gem with Dunes
Dune playgrounds, surfing rentals, and beach huts make it versatile for all ages.
18. Ilfracombe – Classic Victorian Seaside Resort
Promenades, gardens, tunnelled beaches, and Watermouth Castle offer timeless fun.
19. Burgh Island – Tidal Island Adventure
Reach by sea tractor for hotel, pub, and beach-hopping between Bantham and Bigbury.
20. Exeter – Historic Cathedral City
Rich in architecture, parks, cathedral, quayside, and theatre—ideal Devon base.
21. Sidmouth – Regency Coastal Elegance
Donkey Sanctuary, coastal paths, and red cliffs in Jurassic Coast beauty.
22. Exmouth – Watersports and Geological Wonders
Jurassic Coast start, surfing, markets, and the unique dry Valley of the Rocks.
23. Dittisham – Riverside Village Idyll
On River Dart near Agatha Christie's Greenway—peaceful base for explorations.
24. Shaldon – Quaint Thatched Fishing Village
Authentic coastal life, smugglers' tunnel to Teignmouth Beach.
25. Haldon Forest Park – 3,500 Acres of Woodland Trails
Family-friendly paths, cycling, picnics, and panoramic views amid pines.
