Top Things to do in Devon
Things to do in Devon, England: The Best Multi-day Tours
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. 2-Day Tour of King Arthur's Cornwall in Tintagel, Boscastle and Dartmoor from Glastonbury
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
These are two days fit for any goddess or knight in search for the Holy Grail or Excalibur. We drive through the lands of these legends and present the truth hidden in a landscape where dragons fly and crystals emerge from the ground, where you meet real earth energy workers, witches and saints.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Local guide, Professional guide, Glastonbury Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: Lunch, Accommodation
Reviewed By bod10234
Don’t give this man your money his knowledge of Glastonbury is utter rubbish he might sound like he knows what he is on about but he really doesn’t he goes on about elf kings and fairy kings off his head smoked too much weed in the past I think
2. Eight Day Tour of Sacred England
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Adventure yourself away on this eight-day tour of the best and most beautiful sacred sites of England. Submerse yourself in the magical myths and legends of Glastonbury, the home of the Celtic church, built 2000 years ago amongst druids and goddess worship. Be transported back 6000 years to the stones of Stonehenge and Avebury, places aligned to the stars, imagination and your heart. Travel down the path with King Arthur, to his birthplace in Tintagel, learn of ley lines, knights, witches and wonders on this rugged coastline of Cornwall.
Inclusions: All activities, Driver/guide, Local guide, Professional guide, Port pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Lunch, Accommodation (see website)
Reviewed By bod10234
Don’t give this man your money his knowledge of Glastonbury is utter rubbish he might sound like he knows what he is on about but he really doesn’t he goes on about elf kings and fairy kings off his head smoked too much weed in the past I think
3. Award winning Luxury 3 day Devon and Cornwall Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Travel England Tours are an award winning chauffeur guide tour company. Devon and Cornwall possess some of the most beautiful coastlines and natural beauty in England. Your tour will capture these scenes and idyllic rolling landscape. Immerse yourself in the stunning views and historic locations. Visit the World Heritage Sites of the Minack Theatre, Charlestown Harbour and Botallick Mines amongst others. Experience the small fishing harbours, quaint villages and golden sandy beaches set in rural surroundings whilst travelling in one of our luxurious Mercedes vehicles. Your own local private chauffeur guide has an abundance of knowledge of the area which will ensure you have a memorable tour of these two beautiful counties. Travel in comfort and convenience with your own private chauffeur guide and vehicle. Collection and drop off at your local accommodation.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board
Exclusions: Food and drink, Admission fees (Minack Theatre approx £5pp, Tintagel Castle approx £10pp), Overnight Accommodation (if required, help can be provided to locate suitable accommodation)
Reviewed By 782andreyk
We have greatly enjoyed our tour around Devon with Ian. We have seen the most interesting attractions in Devon (Plymouth, Weymouth, Exeter, Slapton Sands, Dartmoor) in just one day. Ian is an extremely capable and friendly tour guide, and we can only recommend Travel England Tours for anyone wanting to explore Devon! Andrey and Giulie
4. 5-Day Devon and Cornwall Small-Group Tour from London
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 191 reviews
Leave bustling London behind for five wonderful days in the countryside of southwest England! On this small-group tour from London to the counties of Devon and Cornwall, your guide will tell you interesting historical facts and stories about the area and show you beautiful towns, famous sights and breathtaking landscapes you’ll never forget. Discover the beauty of these two regions – some of England's best – and visit popular attractions like Stonehenge. You’ll see the South Devon coast, Dartmoor, Exeter and, of course, the idyllic county of Cornwall. In a group of less than 16 people, you are sure to enjoy a personalized and valuable experience with your guide.
Inclusions: 4 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast in either a B&B or 3-star Hotel., Driver/guide, Small-group tour (maximum 16 passengers), Transport by air-conditioned mini-coach
Exclusions: Gratuities, Meals and refreshments, Admission fees
Reviewed By HerbertViola
The Wales tour was a great experience made much better by our excellent guide Rob! It was a difficult one as travel restrictions in Wales were announced on our third day. But Rabbies was quick to make alternative arrangements in Cotswolds and covered the additional cost of bookings. We have been to some magical locations which we would definitely miss on our own. Rob was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic to help, friendly and flexible making everyone feel involved. All in all, it was the highlight trip of the year!
5. 3-Day Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Tour from London
Overall Ratings
4.3 based on 20 reviews
Explore southwest England in three wonderful days on this small-group tour from London. See the mystic stone circle of Stonehenge and discover the historic city of Exeter, where you will stay two nights. Also visit Glastonbury with the impressive Tor, and end your small-group tour in the Georgian city of Bath. In a group of less than 16 people, you are sure to enjoy a personalized and valuable experience with your guide.
Inclusions: Professional guide/driver, Small-group tour (maximum 16 people), 2 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast , Transportation by top of the range 16-seat Mercedes mini coach
Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified, Admission fees
Reviewed By mk1956
If this is the Rabies Tour it is totally outstanding !! We enjoyed it immensely. Our guide was Dan from Wales. He was excellent. Next year 2022 we plan to book a Rabies Tour for Scotland and we're going to fill our own bus! Can't wait
6. Devon, Dorset and Cornwall : Private Driver Guided 5 Day Tour from London
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 2 reviews
Your experienced Private Driver Guide takes you to arguably the most beautiful counties of England and Britain. Dorset, Devon and Cornwall have some of the most picturesque and quaint English villages with thatched cottages, historic churches and welcoming country pubs serving excellent food and drink. There is also the opportunity to visit the dramatic Jurassic Coast with its steep cliffs, and breathtaking rocky outcrops. We also visit the wild and rugged terrain of Dartmoor and hear many stories that have originated from this spectacular landscape. The following day is spent on the northern coast exploring the beautiful villages of Clovelly and Port Isaac, where the TV series, Doc Martin is filmed and there are more opportunities to taste the local cuisine and try the local beers from this part of Britain. There are a range of things to to on the final two days - exploring St Ives and Mount St Michael or the Eden Project to name just a couple. The tour is tailor-made to your needs.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation
Exclusions: All accommodation, meals, drinks and refreshments are not included in the price of the tour.
Reviewed By Zenzaro
We had met Nigel Homer earlier in December when he guided us on the Rabbies Oxford & Traditional Cotwold Villages 1 Day Tour. We had such a wonderful day that we booked Nigel again. Nigel has such a delightful manner, is extremely knowledgeable & has a very inviting sense of humour all of which enables him to deliver the most relaxed, comfortable, fun & enjoyable tour. Thank you so much & best wishes, Nigel. ????
7. Award Winning Luxury 5 day South West of England Tour
Travel England Tours are an award winning private chauffeur guide company. Explore the unspoiled countryside of the South West of England in one of our luxurious Mercedes S Class vehicles. With many World Heritage Sites located within the 8 counties covered within this tour you will see lots of outstanding coastlines, rolling landscapes and historical architecture. Relax and take in the beautiful landscapes while travelling in comfort and style with your own private chauffeur guide. Your local chauffeur guide has an abundance of knowledge of the areas which will ensure you have a memorable tour.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Bottled water
Exclusions: Lunch, Snacks, Admissions to attractions, Accommodation
Reviewed By 782andreyk
We have greatly enjoyed our tour around Devon with Ian. We have seen the most interesting attractions in Devon (Plymouth, Weymouth, Exeter, Slapton Sands, Dartmoor) in just one day. Ian is an extremely capable and friendly tour guide, and we can only recommend Travel England Tours for anyone wanting to explore Devon! Andrey and Giulie
8. South West Coast Path Walking South Cornwall Coastline (12 days, 11 nights)
The South West Coast Path is one of the UK’s National Trail footpaths, running 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, round the South West tip of England to Bournemouth in Dorset. This itinerary focusses on the South Cornwall Coastline, running from Penzance to Plymouth. This includes the popular landmark of Lizard Point. What's included? Breakfast included, other meals excluded Luggage Transfers between accommodation providers Fully comprehensive tour pack with maps, available in English, German, French and Italian as standard. (Other languages available on request) Access to a smartphone digital app which offers GPS tracking for the routes (downloaded prior to save on data costs) Access to a 24/7 helpline in case of any emergencies Exclusions Entry or admission fee Landing & facility fees Individual travel to the UK Lunch & Dinner Travel Taxes Entry fees to attractions Please note Passport required Passport needed if travelling to UK from other countries
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast
Exclusions:
Reviewed By WildWalkers2
Absolutely beautiful walk. Great luggage service collect and drop your bags at the next overnight stop.
9. South West Coast Path Walking - Somerset & Devon (11 days, 10 nights)
The South West Coast Path is one of the UK’s National Trail footpaths, running 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, round the South West tip of England to Bournemouth in Dorset. This itinerary focusses on the Somerset & North Devon Coastline. From the start in Minehead, the path drifts inland across Exmoor and the gorgeous moorland landscape. What's included? Breakfast included, other meals excluded Luggage Transfers between accommodation providers Fully comprehensive tour pack with maps, available in English, German, French and Italian as standard. (Other languages available on request) Access to a smartphone digital app which offers GPS tracking for the routes (downloaded prior to save on data costs) Access to a 24/7 helpline in case of any emergencies Exclusions Entry or admission fee Landing & facility fees Individual travel to the UK Lunch & Dinner Travel Taxes Entry fees to attractions Please note Passport required Passport needed if travelling to UK from other countries
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast
Exclusions:
Reviewed By WildWalkers2
Absolutely beautiful walk. Great luggage service collect and drop your bags at the next overnight stop.
10. South West Coast Path Walking South Devon Coastline (9 days, 8 nights)
The South West Coast Path is one of the UK’s National Trail footpaths, running 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, round the South West tip of England to Bournemouth in Dorset. This itinerary focusses on the South Devon Coastline, running along The English Channel from Plymouth to Exmouth. What's included? Breakfast included, other meals excluded Luggage Transfers between accommodation providers Fully comprehensive tour pack with maps, available in English, German, French and Italian as standard. (Other languages available on request) Access to a smartphone digital app which offers GPS tracking for the routes (downloaded prior to save on data costs) Access to a 24/7 helpline in case of any emergencies Exclusions Entry or admission fee Landing & facility fees Individual travel to the UK Lunch & Dinner Travel Taxes Entry fees to attractions Please note Passport required Passport needed if travelling to UK from other countries
Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast
Exclusions:
Reviewed By WildWalkers2
Absolutely beautiful walk. Great luggage service collect and drop your bags at the next overnight stop.
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