Top Things to do in Devon
Top 10 Specialty Museums in Devon, England
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. Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 156 reviews
Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life is a treasure trove of fascinating objects and quirky artefacts that weave incredible stories about the people who lived here. The museum has extensive permanent displays, and a lively events and exhibition programme. The museum is proud to be family friendly. It is located in the heart of Tiverton, right next to the Beck's Square short stay car park, the bus station and only a few minutes from the long stay car park. We recommend that you pre-book and ask that you adhere to 2m social distancing and wear a face covering when visiting the museum.
Reviewed By ccmanMidlands_UK - Lichfield, United Kingdom
We visited Tiverton Museum recently - for the first time in about 30 yrs... What a marvellous place it is now - after its huge extension & refurb. What transformation! Fantastic displays of everything from ancient farm equipment to a giant net-making loom, from the Heathcoat factory. And, of course standing on the footplate of the Tivvy Bumper steam engine is a wonderful treat! (You can even press a button to hear steam noises - and pull the chain to hear that iconic whistle!) If you are visiting the area - or haven't visited the museum for a while - I am sure you will find the £5.50 entrance fee very good value - enjoy!!
2. Moretonhampstead Motor Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 226 reviews
Reviewed By HANENAX - Lydney, United Kingdom
Places like this need supporting as when they are gone they are gone. Only found this museum as we passed it on the way to our hotel. Owned and run by a genuinely nice man whose name is Frank and who owns all the exhibits. An amazing collection of old cars and motorbikes which both look and smell incredible. Took me back to simpler times that no longer exist. If you are in the area take time to visit this tardis. £7 entrance fee is worth it for what you are helping to preserve.
3. Dartmouth Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 163 reviews
Reviewed By sandiea721
Dartmouth manages to retain many of its historic buidings and the museum is housed in one of the oldest at the start of the Butterwalk. Packed full of pictures and information on the development of the town and, of course, its maritime history it is a must see treasure trove of information.
4. Royal Albert Memorial Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,430 reviews
Exeter's world-class museum has stunning displays and galleries, fabulous exhibitions and modern amenities. The displays reveal Devon and Exeter's rich history and global connections. Exotic animals, birds and insects delight children and the world cultures galleries display stunning items from all over the world. The shop offers hand-picked gifts, unique craft items, books and affordable souvenirs for children. The cafe serves delicious homemade food. Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Closed Mondays and bank holidays. Free Admission. From time to time galleries may be closed for special events; please check before travelling.
Reviewed By andylucky905 - Newquay, United Kingdom
Lots to see of interest ranging from Egyptian tomb to large stuffed animals and excellent value for just price of donation.
5. Exmouth Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 66 reviews
6. Bygones
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,767 reviews
Bygones is three floors of pure nostalgia for ALL AGES! Whether it be History, Railwayana or Militaria, you will reminisce! Wander back in time, visit our authentic life-size Victorian Street, see the Blacksmith hard at work, smell the treats of the Sweetshop, listen to the hustle and bustle of Victorian life. Imagine yourself in the nursery, kitchen, parlour or even the dentist! As you meander up to the top floor, hop on the 27-ton steam engine en route! Arrive in the 20th Century, take a break in our Station Café for a range of cakes and refreshments. Marvel over our completely refurbished model railway themed around English villages in WWI and WWII. Consider your ancestors in a WWI trench or taking cover in a WWII Anderson Shelter. Don’t miss the 1950’s and 60’s shopping arcade filled with post-war packaging and household items.
Reviewed By NB1957
I loved it, it has the most amazing collection of almost anything that you could think of and there is something for everyone here. The recreation of a Victorian street is superbly done with so much attention to detail, there is an outstanding collection of military memorabilia, I was amazed by the railway artefacts including an ex Falmouth Docks steam locomotive. It is hard to do Bygones justice without an extremely long explanation of what is there. Fascinating to see old packaging, toys, kitchen equipment, the recreation of a dentists, a door from Dartmoor Prison, the list is endless. The welcome was friendly and I had an interesting conversation with the owner. It is said of many places that they are not to be missed but Bygones really is a place not to be missed. I think that to do it justice you would need to pay many visits as there is so much to see and take in.
7. Newton Abbot Town & GWR Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 61 reviews
Reviewed By loub780 - Newton Abbot, United Kingdom
Such a fabulous renovation of an historic and iconic building, now hosting the town's museum. We were guided throughout our visit by the lovely Val, who was both informative and passionate about Newton Abbot and actively encouraged us to emerse ourselves in the whole sensory experience. Our son especially loved the interactive railway history and wants a return visit, top marks for a 10 year old! Thank you to all who made this a reality.
8. Arlington Court and the National Trust Carriage Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,009 reviews
Reviewed By Folly1998
A lovely day exploring the house and gardens, we particularly enjoyed observing the horseshoe bats on the batcam followed by a delicious cream tea in the tea room.
9. Golden Hind Museum Ship
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 597 reviews
The Golden Hind in Brixham Harbour, is one of only two full sized replicas in the world of 16th century explorer and privateer Sir Francis Drake's famous ship. The Ship has been a feature of picturesque Brixham harbour for over fifty years, entertaining and educating thousands of visitors during this time - as well as being featured on many tv programmes and films. The Ship is open come rain or shine and is an all weather attraction with many indoor displays as well as wide open decks and on-board activities.
Reviewed By _jascamloch - Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
And a three year old grandson!!! - who really enjoyed it , would have loved to spend much more time reading the facts and filling in the questions to our quiz properly , but a three year old who loves pirates , the boats wheel and lots of cannons made this far too exciting!! Good value and a lovely `pirate ` thing to do in Brixham....I even managed to drill in the name `Francis Drake` so a little history lesson aswell...great effects and loving our history!!
10. Museum of British Surfing
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
The national registered charity preserving our surfing heritage, celebrating current achievements and helping to shape the future of surfing in Great Britain. Plenty of activities to keep kids entertained and a retail area stocking unique gifts. Please keep an eye on our website for our seasonal opening times.
