Enhancing Your Travel Experience in South Devon: Tips and Tricks

Guest Blog Post* - Mable Harris

Whether you love outdoor sports like hiking, cycling, and water activities, or you're a foodie on the hunt for new culinary delights, South Devon has something for everyone. History buffs can immerse themselves in the local lore, while beach lovers can relax on stunning coastlines. For those who enjoy exploring charming villages, this region offers plenty of picturesque spots.

South Devon is a captivating part of England with its breathtaking coastline, quaint villages, and rich maritime heritage. From sandy beaches and rugged cliffs to lush countryside and historic towns, this area is steeped in history and full of activities to enjoy.

What You Need to Know and Prepare in Advance?

Gather All the Necessities

Be prepared for any kind of weather in the UK, even in summer! If you're heading to Dartmoor, expect colder temperatures, wind, and rain. A waterproof, windproof jacket and sturdy hiking boots are a must. Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast the night before and on the day. Pack accordingly.

For summer visits, bring swimsuits, buckets, spades, beach towels, and a good book. You can take your entire library with you when you use the Fiction Me reading app. There is a huge selection of werewolf stories, as well as romantic books and other genres. If you're adventurous, don't forget your kayak!

Know the Peculiarities of the Seasons

Every season offers something unique during your stay. Late Spring is ideal with warm days and longer evenings for al fresco dining (bring a cardigan!). Summer is popular for its sunny weather, but it's less crowded outside of school holidays. Autumn showcases South Devon's colorful trees, especially on Dartmoor, where morning fog creates an eerie landscape. Winter can be harsh, but you might catch a storm from the comfort of a sea-view apartment in Plymouth or Torquay. On rainy days, there are shopping centers, museums, and plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore.

Make a List of Local Delicacies You Must Try

Devon is a seafood lover's paradise, thanks to the nearby fishing port of Brixham. Be sure to sample the fish and chips, and if you're adventurous, try cockles or whelks!

Don't miss out on a classic Devon Cream Tea, and take some clotted cream home with you. For a special treat, visit the Orange Elephant near Exeter for fantastic ice cream.

Gin lovers, don't miss tours of Plymouth Gin Distillery and award-winning Salcombe Gin. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Devon!

Best Family Attraction in South Devon

Pristine Beaches and Hidden Coves

South Devon is home to some of the most stunning beaches in England. Whether you're looking for pristine sands or secluded coves, this region has it all. Must-visit spots include South Milton Sands, Hope Cove, Dawlish Warren, Bantham Beach, Blackpool Sands, South Sands, and North Sands in Salcombe. In Torquay, you’ll find Anstey’s Cove and Torre Abbey Sands. Paignton offers Goodrington Beach and Broadsands Beach, while Mattiscombe Sands awaits at Start Point. Explore Ness Cove Beach in Teignmouth and Wembury Beach near Plymouth. But beaches are just the beginning. There's so much more to uncover.

Beer

The picturesque fishing village of Beer boasts a rich history, from the Anglo-Saxon era to smugglers, quarry caves, and its annual regatta. Situated along the South West Coast Path, Beer offers numerous opportunities to explore its stunning waterside scenery. Seafood lovers will particularly enjoy dining at the local eateries—don't miss the Crab Sandwiches at Duckies!

You will be interested to get acquainted with the history of the village of Beer and the book "Beer in smuggling times" by Arthur J Chapple will help with this. You can find this and other books in the reading apps on the Play Store and Play Market. In general, it is good to have enough entertainment at hand when traveling and electronic libraries will help you.

The English Riviera

During the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815), with the French Riviera out of reach, the towns in the Tor Bay area earned the nickname "The English Riviera." Torquay and Paignton, the two largest towns, boast beautiful beaches and a nostalgic seaside charm. Paignton is perfect for a classic bucket-and-spade holiday, while Torquay offers vibrant, sandy shores packed with activities.

Babbacombe Bay

Queen Victoria once described Babbacombe Bay as "a beautiful spot... red cliffs and rocks with wooded hills like Italy." Visit this gem of the English Riviera, and you'll understand her admiration. Ideal for a beach holiday or a coastal retreat, Babbacombe boasts the highest clifftop promenade in England, offering breathtaking views, seabird sightings, and glimpses of seals and dolphins. Enjoy coastal and woodland strolls, hidden coves, tranquil surroundings, independent shops, cozy tearooms, picturesque buildings, and the historic Babbacombe Theatre. Be sure to visit Bygones, a life-size Victorian street, and Babbacombe Model Village's award-winning gardens.

Conclusion

Of course, we can't tell you everything about South Devon in a couple of minutes. You'll have to choose a place to stay in South Devon yourself based on your desired entertainment. But you were still able to learn more, and ideally - plan a route. And we are sincerely glad if this is so.

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