Discover Devon: A Guide to South West England's Attractions
Devon, nestled between Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset in South West England, offers a plethora of activities that rank among the UK's finest. If you're planning to rent a car in the United Kingdom, it's essential to know the local requirements.
From the rugged cliffs of the Bristol Channel to the gentle downs by the English Channel, Devon's picturesque landscapes set the stage for diverse experiences. Beachgoers and water sports fans will find bliss on Devon's beaches, while the Jurassic Coast beckons hikers and bikers with its fossil-rich cliffs and breathtaking vistas.
Devon's charm extends to its timeless villages and historic market towns, while Exeter, the county town, offers a cultural feast with its museums and architectural wonders.
1. Exeter Cathedral: A Historical Marvel
Exeter Cathedral, dating back to 1133, stands out with its unique design among England's churches. Its current façade and features like the astronomical clock were added in the 14th and 15th centuries. A guided tour reveals the cathedral's stone vaulted ceiling, the largest medieval structure of its kind in Europe, and its impressive library. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic city views from the roof or explore the surrounding Cathedral Green and historic shops.
Address: 1 The Cloisters, Exeter, Devon
Official site: www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk
2. Babbacombe Model Village: A Miniature World
In Torquay, Babbacombe Model Village captivates visitors with its detailed scale models and extensive model railway. Open since 1963, the attraction includes replicas of Stonehenge and London landmarks. Additional features include special night illuminations, a café, mini-golf, and a gift shop.
Address: Hampton Avenue, Babbacombe, Torquay, Devon
Official site: www.model-village.co.uk
Top-Rated walking tours in Devon
3. Tarka Trail: Scenic Adventures
The Tarka Trail, inspired by a fictional otter's journey, offers a scenic 180-mile route through North Devon. Hikers and cyclists can explore sections of the trail, which passes through Exmoor and Dartmoor, or enjoy the landscapes by train on the Tarka Line from Barnstaple.
4. Jurassic Coast: A Geological Wonderland
The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its diverse geological formations and fossil deposits. Accessible hiking trails, such as the Exmouth and Orcombe Point Walk, connect to the longer South West Coast Path, inviting exploration of this area of natural beauty.
Official site: https://jurassiccoast.org
5. Exeter Quayside: A Historic Hub
Exeter Quayside, once a bustling port, now offers a tranquil setting with historic warehouses, now home to shops and cafés. The 17th-century Custom House and the Medieval Exe Bridge are notable landmarks in the area.
Address: The Quay, Exeter, Devon
Official site: www.exeterquayside.co.uk
6. Torquay Harbour and Marina: The English Riviera
Torquay, known as the "English Riviera," boasts a mild climate and a picturesque harbor. The area comes alive with shops, cafés, and evening diners enjoying the waterfront ambiance.
Address: Beacon Quay, Torquay, Devon
Official site: www.tor-bay-harbour.co.uk/our-harbours/torquay/
7. Plymouth Hoe: Naval Heritage and Views
Plymouth Hoe, a historic naval port, offers panoramic views and cultural attractions. The 72-foot-tall Smeaton's Tower provides breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into the area's history.
Location: Hoe Park, Plymouth, Devon
8. Royal Albert Memorial Museum: A Cultural Treasure
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter showcases local and international art, Devon's geology, and fossils from the Jurassic Coast. The museum also features a café and a gift shop.
Address: Queen Street, Exeter, Devon
Official site: https://rammuseum.org.uk
9. Paignton Zoo Environmental Park: Family Fun
Paignton Zoo offers a family-friendly experience with over 2,000 animals and an 80-acre park. Facilities include dining options and a gift shop.
Address: Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon
Official site: www.paigntonzoo.org.uk
10. Devon's Beaches: Sun, Sea, and Sand
Devon's two coastlines boast some of England's best beaches, from the unique Tunnel Beach to the red sands of Torre Abbey Sands in Torquay and the expansive Bigbury-on-Sea.
11. Sidmouth: Seaside Charm
Sidmouth, a quaint seaside town, offers a traditional coastal experience with its sheltered beach, water sports, and scenic Connaught Gardens.
12. The Box-Plymouth: Modern Culture
The Box in Plymouth is a contemporary mix of historical archive, museum, and art gallery. It features natural history exhibits, art, and Plymouth's social history, along with a gift shop and restaurant.
Address: Tavistock Place, Plymouth, Devon
Official site: www.theboxplymouth.com
Devon's rich tapestry of landscapes, history, and culture makes it a must-visit destination in the UK, offering something for every traveler.
