A - Z of the South Devon Countryside

A – AONBs – South Devon is lucky enough to boast three Areas of Outstanding Beauty (AONBs): the South Devon AONB, the East Devon AONB and the Blackdown Hills AONB. All three have stunning countryside for visitors to the area to explore. The Blackdown Hills AONB is also home to a range of historical sites whilst the South Devon AONB has peaceful rivers and estuaries.

B – Bridleways – Across the region, bridleways are present for people to enjoy the glorious countryside in a different way. There are riding schools available to enjoy tours of areas such as Dartmoor on horseback.

C – Canal – The Grand Western Canal in Tiverton offers an idyllic setting in Mid Devon. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing walk, yummy picnic or simply to watch the horse drawn barges gently make their way up and down the canal.

D – Dartmoor – Dartmoor National Park is a staggeringly beautiful wilderness full of tors, vast open heathland, hidden woodland and ancient sites and settlements. Spending time on Dartmoor is a must when visiting South Devon.

E – Events – Throughout the year, the southern half of the county hosts a myriad of exceptional events, from local village fetes and traditional agricultural shows to unbeatable music festivals and Christmas extravaganzas all of which take place with the stunning South Devon countryside as their backdrop.

F – Foraging – The countryside in the region offers a wide variety of plants that are edible and foraging is an increasingly popular way to find fresh herbs, fruits and more! Why not go blackberry picking along the hedgerows or take part in a foraging course, Riverford Field Kitchen often run workshops so make sure you check if they have events on. We always recommend foraging with an expert as some plants can be poisonous.

G – Gardens - Whether you enjoy impeccably kempt, quaint, floral gardens or large and beautiful stately grounds, South Devon has a garden for you to enjoy. National Trust properties such as Greenway and Coleton Fishacre have gorgeous gardens and Homeyards Botanical Gardens in Shaldon offers unparalleled views of the River Teign.

H – Hiking – A great way to explore the countryside of the region is to go hiking. You can head to the moors (Dartmoor National Park) and trek across the open landscape, hike along one of the rivers such as the Dart or enjoy a way marked trail in the Blackdown Hills – the possibilities are endless!

I – Insects – The various habitats and environments of the South Devon countryside are home to lots of different species of insects. Head to a nature reserve such as Seaton Wetlands or RSPB Aylesbeare Nature Reserve to marvel at the variety of life or simply explore the countryside around you.

J – Journeys – Travelling across the county of Devon is an experience within itself – particularly in South Devon. Winding country lanes and roads across Dartmoor provide an escape from city life like no other. Take some time during your visit to enjoy the drive, bus rides or train journeys through the county – you will not be disappointed by the views and beautiful surroundings!

K – Kayaking – If you’d rather gaze upon the beauty of the countryside from a different perspective, why not take to the water and go kayaking. The River Dart is a great place to go kayaking with the chance of seeing wildlife and more. The rivers on Dartmoor are also popular for kayaking.

L – Lakes – Lakes are a large part of countryside living regardless of where you are. South Devon has quite a few for people to visit; Stover Country Park and Decoy Country Park are home to lakes and Decoy offer a range of activities for you to make the most of the water.

M- Mountain biking – A popular sport, mountain biking is a great way to stay active during your trip to South Devon. Haldon Forest Park have a range of cycle trails for all abilities and ages – you can also hire bikes here in case you haven’t brought your own.

N – Night sky – Spending time away from the bustling cities in the tranquil countryside provides the ideal setting for a camping trip. Make the most of the minimal light pollution on areas such as Dartmoor and enjoy stargazing in the clear night sky.

O – Orienteering – It may remind you of being at school, but orienteering is a wonderful, family activity that can be enjoyed in South Devon. Make the most of the countryside and find places that you might never have normally discovered.

P – Pubs – A visit or holiday in the countryside of South Devon would not be complete without a trip to a traditional country pub. There are tons speckled across the region and they offer a cosy retreat after a long walk or day out, with many serving up local ales and treats.

Q – Quality time – Quality time with family and loved ones is paramount to a trip away. Make the most of your time in South Devon by taking in the dreamy countryside and enjoying a picnic, walk or exhilarating bike ride – most importantly making memories with the ones you love.

R – Rock climbing – Rock climbing can be done all over South Devon in climbing centres but what about taking it outside and rock climbing in places such as Dartmoor. There are schools which offer rock climbing excursions on Dartmoor – this is the best way to enjoy outdoor rock climbing as it can be dangerous if not done properly.

S – Swimming – If you’re a fan of swimming, there are plenty of rivers, lakes and natural pools to go wild swimming in South Devon. Just make sure it is safe to do so, reservoirs for example should never be swam in.

T – Templer Way – The Templer Way is a historic route that traces the steps of granite that was taken from the quarries at Haytor to the docks at Teignmouth. This interesting walk shows off some of the diverse landscapes that the South Devon countryside is home to.

U – Underground – South Devon is not only fascinating on the ground, but underground too. Join an excursion pot-holing or try caving at River Dart Country Park and discover the curious world beneath, or if you fancy something a little less adventurous, a trip to Kents Cavern will delight the whole family with prehistoric caves.

V – Villages – Sprinkled across South Devon are picturesque countryside villages. With thatched cottages, traditional and historical churches and calming walks, spending time in these charming and friendly villages will give you an insight into true Devonshire life.

W – Wildlife – The region is home to various forms of wildlife, from butterflies and birds to rare flora and ponies, the countryside in South Devon gives plenty of opportunities to view plants and animals in their natural environment. Head to Dartmoor to spot the wild ponies or to one of the rivers and lookout for otters. Find out where to go wildlife spotting in South Devon here.

X – X marks the spot – A fun way to discover the countryside in South Devon is to go Geocaching. Kids will love following clues to find Geocaches and all you need is the free app, a little patience and some comfortable walking shoes! X marks the spot! Find out more about Geocaching in detail here.

Y – Yealm Estuary – The Yealm Estuary near Plymouth is a hub for wildlife and a lovely place to explore. The River Yealm begins on Dartmoor National Park and is 15 miles long.

Z – Zip lining – For those seeking a bit of an adrenaline rush, head to Go Ape at Haldon Forest and have a go at zip lining. View the scenery from above on the high ropes and whizz through the forest on the exhilarating zip wire.

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