Today’s guest post takes us to the charming county of Devon in South West England… and gives us some handy pointers on how to make the most of this scenic part of the UK.
From beaches to breakfasts, Devon is home to some of England’s best coastal areas and tastiest treats. With help from Coast & Country Hotels, we’ve tracked down the ten best things to do in this charming, absolutely beautiful county.
Enjoy Devonshire cream tea
Devon is well known for its tasty cream tea. Devonshire cream tea is simple – a tea, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a charming environment to enjoy the meal in. Unlike nearby Cornwall, tea in Devon is enjoyed with the scone split in two.
Visit the beach
With two coastlines, Devon is home to some of the country’s best beaches. Pack your swimsuit and make a trip to one of the country’s finest surf beaches, or sunbathe on one of Devon’s famous Bristol or English Channel beach resorts.
Shop in Exeter
Exeter is a great place to shop for High Street items and beautiful souvenirs. One of Devon’s most popular cities, Exeter is a great day trip location for visitors seeking a combination of great shopping and interesting history.
View historical buildings
One of England’s most impressive historical cathedrals can be found in Exeter. The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter at Exeter was built in 1400 and is widely regarded as one of the country’s most impressive Norman/Gothic buildings.
Stop by famous harbours
Devon’s coastline offers more than just surf and seafood. The seaside resort town of Ilfracombe is home to one of England’s most beautiful harbours, with the hills near the town offering fantastic views of the coastline.
Travel the coastline
Devon’s coastline is easy to travel. Whether you’re passing through the county on the way to Cornwall or exploring its best sites on your own, prepare your car and visit some of Devon’s most beautiful coastal towns and surf beaches.
Walk the moors
Devon is home to two areas of moorland – Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park. Both parks offer a fantastic experience for walkers and short-term visitors, making either one an excellent choice for your Devon holiday.
Dine on delicious seafood
Fresh fish, incredible lobster, and succulent crab make Devon one of England’s best destinations for foodies. Drop by any coastal town for a tasty meal, or visit one of the county’s famous local chippies for a delicious, deep fried treat.
Pack your surfboard
Devon is one of the UK’s surf capitals, hosting several surf competitions and battling its neighbour Cornwall for the title of ‘UK Surf Capital.’ The county’s best surf areas can be found in the Barnstable-Croyde area on Devon’s northern coastline.
Taste Devon cider
No trip to Devon is complete without a glass of traditional Devon cider. Drop in and visit any coastal pub for a taste of Devon’s most famous alcoholic beverage, or bring a bottle of traditional farm cider back home for your friends and family to enjoy.