Father's Day in South Devon

Father’s Day is a great excuse to get out and explore South Devon, not only are there great footpaths and beaches to be visited, but many of the attractions are putting on special events and offers. Whether you want to treat Dad, Grandad or another important father figure if your life, here are some great events happening throughout the region. 

Dartmoor Whisky Tasting Experience, Bovey Tracey (Open Saturdays throughout the year) 

If Dad is a whiskey drinker, then a trip to Dartmoor Whiskey Distillery would make an ideal gift; the tasting experience is the perfect afternoon activity for any whisky lover.  

Set in the quaint town of Bovey Tracey, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Dartmoor Whisky Distillery has been producing some of the finest aqua vitae in the country for many years.  

Learn the craft of whisky distillation and understand how whisky is made as well as the history of Dartmoor Whisky Distillery and the story of their magnificent antique copper still. Of course, you’ll be able to sample some of these tantalising tipples too!  

Sandridge Barton Vineyard Trail, Stoke Gabriel (open daily from 1st March – 31st October) 

Sitting peacefully in the Dart Valley, Sandridge Barton is a local vineyard who produce impeccable wines that you simply must try.  

Meander through the beautiful countryside, enjoy the woodland and the 32-acres of vineyards which produce the grapes for the Sandridge Barton and Sharpham wines.  

As children scuttle about searching for wildlife, parents can learn why this landscape is perfect for growing grapes. Fascinating interpretation boards offer insightful information on grapevines, while your little ones are encouraged to see if they can spot any creepy crawlies or to try the brass rubbings set in the vineyard. 

After your amble through nature, why not head to Circa, Sandridge Barton’s restaurant who offer farm-to-table cuisine or enjoy a glass of wine in their bar.  

Fish & Fizz Evening Cruise, Stuart Line Cruise, Exmouth (16th June) 

Treat Dad a bit early this Father’s Day and spend the evening cruising along the tranquil waters of the River Exe or Devon’s stunning coastline with Stuart Line Cruises on Friday 16th June. Setting sail at 7.00pm, cruise the tranquil waters of the River Exe or Devon's magnificent coastline, before returning back to Exmouth Marina. 

Sit back and enjoy a glass of prosecco in hand and a generous portion of award-winning fish and chips from Krispies, who have been voted the UK’s best chippie for many years!  

And if fish is not quite your thing – do not worry they also offer a delicious vegetarian or tasty chicken option too! 

Party on the Pitch, Sandy Park, Exeter – Ronan Keating, Blue & East 17 (17th June) and Rick Astley (18th June) 

Sandy Park’s biggest summer party is here! Bringing the Summer festival vibes to Exeter, Sandy Park have organised two days of music and dancing.  

Headlining the event on Saturday 17th June is Ronan Keating, chart-topping singer from the nighties band Boyzone supported by two of the biggest boybands in Brit-pop; Blue and East 17.  

On the 18th of June catch beloved ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ singer Rick Astley alongside The Coral, Lucy Spraggan and the Lottery Winners. If Dad is a big music fan, he’s sure to love these shows! 

Father’s Day at Seaton Tramway, Seaton Tramway (18th June) 

Seaton Tramway is a fun day out for the whole family and for Father’s Day this year, dads travel free with an accompanying child ticket on their standard service. Woohoo! 

Seaton Tramway are also offering their excellent Driver’s Eye Experiences on Father’s Day. The course is very hands-on and will give dad the chance to enjoy driving the trams!  

You could also treat him to a tasty Sunday roast, or a yummy cream tea at their Tramstop Café! Seaton Tramway operates between Seaton, Colyford and Colyton along the stunning Axe Valley in East Devon. 

Father’s Day Pasty and Pint Cruise, Stuart Line Cruises, Exmouth (18th June) 

What better way to show Dad how much he means to you than spending some quality time out on the water with two of the things Devon does best – pasties and pints!  

Stuart Line Cruises are offering award winning Chunk pasties (either the ultimate steak, or tasty veggie pasty) with a choice of beer, cider or even a glass of wine with their tickets on 18th June.  

We’re sure that the whole family will enjoy a day spent sailing along the beautiful River Exe! 

Dad’s Go Free at Dartmoor Zoo, nr Plymouth (18th June) 

For the dads who are animal-mad, Dartmoor Zoo are offering free admission on Father’s Day.   

Assemble the whole family for a fun-filled and memorable day at the zoo. Beautiful big cats, mischievous monkeys, delightful deer and wicked wolves can be found whilst meandering through the 33-acre Zoo.   

If Dad truly is an animal lover, why not gift him an experience day? He could feed the otters, meet the meerkats or enjoy all the behind the scenes action with a Zookeeper experience.  

Father’s Day Adventure, Bovey Castle, Dartmoor (18th June) 

Set within the stunning Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle are inviting Dads to come along for the day for a special Father’s Day Adventure.  

Arrive in the morning for coffee and breakfast bites and then enjoy a fabulous falconry display on the grounds of the 275-acre estate. After the display Dad can try his hand at archery as well as an air rifle experience. Such fun! 

If you’re looking for something else, there are plenty of other things to do in South Devon. You could visit one of our many stunning beaches for the day, explore the beautiful tors or reservoirs of Dartmoor National Park, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride through Haldon Forest. If Dad enjoys the outdoors, perhaps take him kayaking with Sea Kayak Devon or embark on a Segway experience through Cann Woods!  

Of course, there are lots of great pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and a pint if that’s more your thing, you can see what’s nearby on our Food and Drink page here! 

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