Devon, a county in southwest England, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse experiences. From the dramatic coastline of North Devon to the picturesque villages along the South Devon coast, this enchanting region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking long walks along stunning beaches, exploring charming market towns like Totnes, or embarking on boat trips along the River Dart, Devon promises an unforgettable holiday. With its rolling countryside, art deco gems like Burgh Island, and easy access to attractions such as Totnes Castle, Devon is a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in both nature and culture.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Three Crowns
- 🌟 5-Star: Gidleigh Park- A Relais & Chateaux Hotel 5 stars
- 🏨 4-Star: The Moorland Hotel, Haytor, Devon
- 🛏️ 3-Star: YHA Beer
- 💸 Cheap: 55 Meadow View
- 🏢 Apartament: Royal William Yard Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Weeke Barton
- 🏩 For Couples: The 25 Boutique B&B - Adults Only
Choosing the best area to stay in Devon can be a delightful challenge, given the abundance of options. You might find yourself drawn to a boutique hotel right in the heart of a bustling town, or perhaps a cozy cottage in a pretty village with great places to eat nearby. For those who love the sea, the North Devon coast offers dramatic landscapes and opportunities for activities like surfing and horse riding. Meanwhile, South Devon boasts charming spots like South Sands, where you can find accommodations right on the beach. Whether you prefer a place with a swimming pool, a restaurant and bar, or simply stunning views of the Devon coastline, you’ll find everything you need for a perfect stay in this diverse county. From the rugged beauty of Combe Martin to the serene banks along the River Dart, Devon truly has it all.
The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide
- 🏄♂️ For beach lovers: North Devon District
- 🏖️ For those seeking picturesque coastal towns: South Hams District
- 🎡 For families and couples: Torbay (English Riviera)
- 🦕 For those interested in exploring the Jurassic Coast: East Devon District
- 🥾 For nature lovers: Dartmoor National Park
- 🚢 For urban explorers interested in history: Plymouth
1. North Devon District: Surfer’s Paradise with Stunning Beaches and Rugged Coastlines 🏄♂️
🌊 Stunning Beaches: North Devon is renowned for its beautiful coastline, featuring long stretches of golden sand and world-class surfing spots. Beaches like Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton Sands offer perfect conditions for water sports enthusiasts and sunbathers alike.
🏞️ Exmoor National Park: This area is home to part of Exmoor National Park, a diverse landscape of moorland, woodland, valleys, and farmland. It’s a haven for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and stargazers, boasting some of the darkest skies in the country.
🎣 Charming Coastal Towns: North Devon is dotted with picturesque fishing villages and seaside towns. Places like Ilfracombe and Lynton offer a quintessential British coastal experience, with their quaint harbors, independent shops, and fresh seafood restaurants.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Lundy Island: A unique island with diverse wildlife and great diving spots.
- Arlington Court: A National Trust property with beautiful gardens and a carriage museum.
- Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway: A water-powered funicular railway with stunning coastal views.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- The Quay Restaurant, Ilfracombe: Fine dining with locally sourced ingredients.
- The Corn Dolly Tea Shop, South Molton: Traditional cream teas and homemade cakes.
- The Riverside Restaurant, Braunton: Seafood specialties with river views.
🚗 Getting Around: A car is the most convenient way to explore North Devon, as public transport can be limited in rural areas. However, there are bus services connecting major towns, and the Tarka Line train runs from Exeter to Barnstaple.
🏨 Where to Stay in North Devon
⭐ Best Hotels in North Devon
- 4 Ocean Point: A modern apartment in Croyde offering stunning ocean views, comfortable accommodations, and easy access to the beach. Perfect for couples or small families looking for a relaxing coastal getaway.
- 10 Cove View: A spacious 5-star apartment in Ilfracombe with sea views, free WiFi, and private parking. Features 2 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and is close to Wildersmouth beach and local attractions.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- The Tempest, sea views, coastal & rural walks.: A charming accommodation offering beautiful sea views and easy access to coastal and rural walks. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Seagulls Loft, Grove Apartments: A cozy apartment in Ilfracombe, part of the Grove Apartments complex. Offers comfortable living spaces and a convenient location for exploring the town and nearby attractions.
- No 5 Compass - Ilfracombe: A well-appointed accommodation in Ilfracombe, providing a comfortable base for visitors. Centrally located, making it easy to explore the town’s amenities and coastal attractions.
- Sandleigh Apartment: A pleasant apartment in Woolacombe, offering a comfortable stay with easy access to the area’s beautiful beaches and scenic countryside.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- lfracombe Holiday Apartment Close to Tunnels Beaches: A budget-friendly apartment near the famous Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe. Ideal for travelers looking for affordable accommodation close to local attractions.
- Sea views, big 2 Bed Flat close to beach & harbour: A spacious two-bedroom flat offering sea views and proximity to both the beach and harbour. Perfect for families or groups wanting a comfortable base to explore Ilfracombe.
- 55 Meadow View: A comfortable accommodation in Ilfracombe, located 21 miles from Lundy Island and Royal North Devon Golf Club. Offers a pleasant stay with easy access to local attractions and amenities.
2. South Hams District: Picturesque Coastal Towns 🌅
🏖️ Picturesque Beaches: South Hams boasts some of Devon’s most beautiful beaches, from the expansive Slapton Sands to secluded coves like Soar Mill Cove. These beaches offer a perfect mix of relaxation, water sports, and scenic coastal walks.
🍷 Food and Drink Scene: This area is known for its thriving food culture, with numerous award-winning restaurants, local vineyards, and artisan food producers. From fresh seafood to locally produced wines, South Hams is a food lover’s paradise.
🚤 Sailing and Water Activities: With its numerous estuaries and sheltered bays, South Hams is a popular destination for sailing enthusiasts. Towns like Salcombe and Dartmouth offer excellent facilities for boating and other water-based activities.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Dartmouth Castle: A 600-year-old fortress with stunning views over the Dart Estuary.
- Greenway House: Agatha Christie’s holiday home, now managed by the National Trust.
- Blackpool Sands: A beautiful Blue Flag beach with turquoise waters.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- The Seahorse, Dartmouth: Michelin-starred seafood restaurant.
- The Crab Shed, Salcombe: Fresh local crab and seafood with harbor views.
- The Millbrook Inn, South Pool: Award-winning gastropub with locally sourced ingredients.
🚂 Transportation: While a car offers the most flexibility, the South Hams can also be explored using a combination of trains, buses, and ferries. The Dartmouth Steam Railway is a scenic way to travel between Paignton and Kingswear.
🏨 Where to Stay in South Hams
⭐ Best Hotels in South Hams
- Frogwell: A charming bed and breakfast located in Dartmouth, offering comfortable rooms with garden views. Guests can enjoy a terrace, free private parking, and a shared lounge. The property is known for its excellent breakfast and warm hospitality.
- 42 Dart Marina: A luxurious apartment in Dartmouth with stunning river views. This 5-star accommodation features a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and is ideally located for exploring the town and surrounding areas.
- Quayside: A stylish hotel situated on Dartmouth’s waterfront, offering elegant rooms with river views. Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the award-winning restaurant and easy access to local attractions.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Apartment 1 22 Foss Street: A cozy apartment in the heart of Dartmouth, providing a comfortable and affordable base for exploring the town and nearby attractions.
- 37 The Salcombe: A well-appointed apartment in Salcombe, offering beautiful views and easy access to the town’s amenities and beaches.
- A spacious 2 bed flat in Kingsbridge town: A roomy apartment in the center of Kingsbridge, perfect for families or groups looking for a convenient and affordable stay.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Suncot Apartment: A budget-friendly apartment offering a comfortable stay for travelers exploring the South Hams area.
- The Bakery Flat, Frogmore: A unique and affordable accommodation in Frogmore, providing a cozy atmosphere in a converted bakery building.
- George & Dragon: A historic inn in Dartmouth offering budget-friendly rooms and a traditional pub atmosphere, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic local experience.
3. Torbay (English Riviera): Family-friendly Seaside Resort with Palm-lined Promenades 🌴
🏖️ Family-Friendly Beaches: Torbay, known as the English Riviera, is famous for its sandy beaches and calm waters. Beaches like Oddicombe, Meadfoot, and Goodrington Sands offer safe swimming and a range of water sports activities.
🎢 Attractions and Entertainment: This area is packed with family-friendly attractions, including Paignton Zoo, Babbacombe Model Village, and Splashdown Quaywest water park. There’s always something to do, rain or shine.
🦕 Geological Significance: Torbay is part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, recognized for its rich geological, historical, and cultural heritage. Kents Cavern prehistoric caves offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s ancient past.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Torre Abbey: A historic building and art gallery with beautiful gardens.
- Babbacombe Cliff Railway: A funicular railway offering stunning coastal views.
- Cockington Country Park: A picturesque village and country park with craft centers.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- The Elephant, Torquay: Michelin-starred restaurant focusing on local, seasonal ingredients.
- Rockfish, Brixham: Fresh seafood straight from Brixham’s fish market.
- Old Vienna Restaurant, Torquay: Award-winning Austrian cuisine in a charming setting.
🚌 Well-connected: Torbay has good public transport links, with regular bus services connecting the main towns. The area is also served by trains, with stations in Torquay and Paignton. Many attractions are within walking distance in the main towns.
🏨 Where to Stay in Torbay
⭐ Best Hotels in Torbay
- Tyndale B&B Torquay: A charming bed and breakfast in Torquay, offering comfortable rooms and a warm welcome. Located just 200 meters from Meadfoot Beach, it features free WiFi and parking. Guests praise its cleanliness, friendly hosts, and delicious breakfast options.
- Harbreck Heights -Masts B9: A modern apartment in Torquay with stunning sea views. This well-equipped accommodation offers free WiFi, parking, and is conveniently located near Meadfoot Beach and local attractions.
- Austens Apartments: Stylish apartments in Torquay, offering self-catering accommodation with a blend of modern amenities and Victorian charm. Ideal for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
- The 25 Boutique B&B - Adults Only: An award-winning, adults-only boutique B&B in Torquay, known for its exceptional service, stylish decor, and attention to detail. Perfect for couples seeking a luxurious and peaceful stay.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Meadowside Holiday Apartments: Affordable self-catering apartments in Torquay, offering comfortable accommodation with easy access to local beaches and attractions.
- The Osborne Apartments: Well-appointed apartments in a historic building, providing a blend of comfort and value. Located near Torquay’s harbor and town center.
- Astor House: A collection of modern apartments in Torquay with stunning sea views. Offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and group sizes.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Green Corner Villa - No.5 Walls Hill Apartment: A budget-friendly apartment in Torquay, offering a comfortable stay with basic amenities. Ideal for travelers looking for an affordable base to explore the area.
- Rose Court Holiday Apartments: Simple and affordable self-catering apartments in Torquay, suitable for budget-conscious travelers and families.
- Trinity Mews: Centrally located apartments in Torquay offering good value for money. These self-catering units provide a comfortable base for exploring the English Riviera.
4. East Devon District: Home to the Jurassic Coast and Charming Seaside Towns 🦕
🏞️ Jurassic Coast: East Devon is home to part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its geological importance and stunning scenery. The area offers excellent opportunities for fossil hunting and coastal walks.
🌳 Natural Beauty: The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers a large part of the district, offering diverse landscapes from heathland to wooded combes. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
🎣 Charming Coastal Towns: Picturesque towns like Sidmouth and Beer offer a traditional seaside experience, with pebble beaches, independent shops, and fresh seafood restaurants.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Seaton Tramway: A narrow gauge heritage tram that runs through the Axe Valley.
- Bicton Park Botanical Gardens: Beautiful gardens with a range of attractions.
- The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth: A charity-run sanctuary home to hundreds of rescued donkeys.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- The Salty Monk, Sidford: Award-winning restaurant in a 16th-century building.
- The Holt, Honiton: Gastropub focusing on locally sourced ingredients.
- Pebbles Restaurant, Budleigh Salterton: Seafood restaurant with great coastal views.
🚂 Logistic: While a car is useful for exploring rural areas, East Devon has good rail links with stations in Honiton, Axminster, and Exmouth. There are also regular bus services connecting the main towns and villages.
🏨 Where to Stay in East Devon
⭐ Best Hotels in East Devon
- ”The: A luxurious 4-star hotel in Sidmouth offering exceptional dining, comfortable accommodation, and stunning sea views. Features include a putting green and award-winning gardens, making it perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway.
- Hotel Riviera: An elegant hotel on Sidmouth’s Esplanade, known for its impeccable service and traditional charm. Offers beautiful sea views, fine dining, and a quintessential British hospitality experience.
- Monmouth House Apartments, Lyme Regis Old Town, dog friendly, parking: Luxury apartments in the heart of Lyme Regis, offering dog-friendly accommodation with parking. Ideal for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience in a prime location.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Lyme Bay House: A comfortable and affordable option in Lyme Regis, offering good value for money. Well-located for exploring the Jurassic Coast and local attractions.
- The Mariners Hotel: A charming hotel in Lyme Regis, providing a blend of historical character and modern comfort at reasonable prices. Convenient location for exploring the town and coastline.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- YHA Beer: A budget-friendly hostel in the picturesque village of Beer, offering dormitory-style and private rooms. Great for backpackers and budget travelers exploring the East Devon coast.
- The Redcliff: A simple yet comfortable accommodation option in East Devon, providing affordable rooms for budget-conscious travelers.
- The Cottage at Churchill Farm: A cozy and affordable cottage accommodation, offering a rustic and authentic Devon experience. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful rural retreat on a budget.
5. Dartmoor National Park: Wild and Rugged Moorland with Ancient History 🏞️
🥾 Outdoor Adventures: Dartmoor offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and wild camping. Its rugged landscape of tors, rivers, and ancient woodlands provides a perfect backdrop for adventure seekers.
🐎 Wildlife and Nature: The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the famous Dartmoor ponies. It’s a great place for nature watching, with rare birds, butterflies, and other animals in their natural habitat.
🏰 Rich History: Dartmoor is steeped in history and legend, with numerous prehistoric sites, medieval villages, and ancient stone circles. It’s a fascinating area for history buffs and those interested in folklore.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Haytor Rocks: Iconic granite tor offering panoramic views of the moor.
- Widecombe-in-the-Moor: Picturesque village known for its annual fair.
- Castle Drogo: The last castle to be built in England, now a National Trust property.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Gidleigh Park, Chagford: Two Michelin-starred restaurant in a country house hotel.
- The Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe-in-the-Moor: Traditional pub with excellent food.
- The Old Inn, Widecombe-in-the-Moor: 16th-century inn serving hearty local fare.
🚗 Getting Around: A car is the most convenient way to explore Dartmoor, as public transport is limited. However, there are some bus services connecting the main towns and villages. Cycling is also popular, with many scenic routes available.
🏨 Where to Stay in Dartmoor National Park
⭐ Best Hotels in Dartmoor National Park
- Gidleigh Park- A Relais & Chateaux Hotel 5 stars: A luxurious country house hotel set in 107 acres of private woodlands. Offers world-class service, award-winning dining, and elegant rooms with stunning views of the Dartmoor landscape. Perfect for those seeking a refined and peaceful retreat.
- Bovey Castle: A grand estate offering a quintessential British experience. Features luxurious rooms, an 18-hole championship golf course, spa facilities, and various outdoor activities. Ideal for families and couples looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
- The Three Crowns: A charming 15th-century coaching inn in the heart of Chagford. Offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort with 21 stylish en-suite rooms, locally-sourced cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a traditional Dartmoor experience.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Weeke Barton: A cool and contemporary guesthouse in a medieval longhouse. Offers five stylish bedrooms, a sociable atmosphere, and a help-yourself honesty bar. Great for those looking for a laid-back, boutique experience on the edge of Dartmoor.
- Higher Mapstone - A true retreat nestled in a private sanctuary on Dartmoor: A secluded retreat set on 4 acres of private land. Offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of Dartmoor. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and a close connection to nature.
- The Moorland Hotel, Haytor, Devon: A 4-star hotel with breathtaking views of Haytor Rocks. Features comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and easy access to Dartmoor’s attractions. Perfect for both relaxation and outdoor adventures.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Haytor Court, Haytor, Dartmoor: A budget-friendly option near Haytor Rocks. Offers simple accommodations with easy access to Dartmoor’s hiking trails and attractions. Suitable for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Dartmoor Reach Alpaca Farm Heated Cabins 5 mins drive to Dartmoor: Unique glamping experience on an alpaca farm. Features heated cabins with comfortable amenities and the opportunity to interact with alpacas. Great for families and those seeking a quirky, nature-focused stay.
- Two Bridges Hotel: A historic hotel in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Offers comfortable rooms, traditional charm, and a riverside location. Ideal for those wanting a classic Dartmoor experience with easy access to walking trails.
6. Plymouth: Historic Naval City with a Vibrant Cultural Scene 🚢
🏛️ Rich Maritime History: As a historic naval city, Plymouth is steeped in maritime heritage. From the Mayflower Steps to the Royal William Yard, the city offers numerous attractions related to its seafaring past.
🍽️ Diverse Food Scene: Plymouth boasts a vibrant culinary landscape, from traditional fish and chips to fine dining restaurants. The city is known for its fresh seafood and is home to several food festivals throughout the year.
🎨 Cultural Hub: Plymouth has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and museums. The city hosts various events and festivals, making it a dynamic destination for culture enthusiasts.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Plymouth Hoe: Historic park with stunning views over Plymouth Sound.
- National Marine Aquarium: The UK’s largest aquarium, showcasing marine life from around the world.
- The Barbican: Historic quarter with Tudor and Jacobean architecture.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Rock Salt Cafe Brasserie: Modern British cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- The Boathouse Cafe: Seafood restaurant with harbor views.
- Platters Restaurant: Long-standing seafood restaurant known for its fresh fish.
🚌 Easy Access: Plymouth has an extensive public transport network, with buses covering most of the city. Many attractions are within walking distance in the city center. There are also ferry services connecting various parts of the waterfront.
🏨 Where to Stay in Torbay
⭐ Best Hotels in Torbay
- The Barbican Residence: A quirky and stylish apartment in Plymouth’s historic Barbican area. This unique accommodation offers a blend of modern comfort and historic charm, perfect for those seeking a memorable stay in the heart of the city.
- THE MEWS, Millfields Private development & concierge: An exclusive apartment in a private development with concierge service. Offers a luxurious and secure stay with high-end amenities and a prime location in Plymouth.
- Royal William Yard Apartment: A stylish apartment in the historic Royal William Yard. Features modern interiors within a beautifully restored naval building, offering waterfront views and easy access to restaurants and bars.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Plymouth Hoe Central * Free Parking * Ocean Reach: A centrally located accommodation near Plymouth Hoe, offering free parking and ocean views. Great value for those wanting to explore Plymouth’s attractions.
- 1 Elliot Terrace: A well-positioned hotel on Plymouth Hoe, offering comfortable rooms and stunning sea views. Provides good value for its prime location.
- Imperial Plymouth: A charming guest house offering a blend of Victorian elegance and modern comfort. Known for its friendly service and convenient location near Plymouth’s attractions.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- BayBreeze Apartment The Hoe: A budget-friendly apartment near Plymouth Hoe, offering comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. Ideal for travelers looking for an affordable base to explore Plymouth.
- Plymouth Hoe - Beautiful 5 Bedroom Victorian House - Central Location: A spacious Victorian house perfect for groups or families. Offers a home-away-from-home experience with multiple bedrooms and a central location.
- Moxy Plymouth: A trendy and affordable hotel offering modern rooms and a vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for young travelers and those seeking a stylish yet budget-friendly option in Plymouth.
Where to Stay in Devon
Each area of Devon offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences and holiday styles. Consider your interests, whether it’s beach activities, historical exploration, nature walks, or urban adventures, when choosing your base in Devon. Remember, Devon is a relatively compact county, and with a car, you can easily explore multiple areas during your stay. However, basing yourself in the area that best suits your primary interests will enhance your Devon experience.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accommodation are available in Devon?
Devon offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, campsites, and holiday parks. You can find everything from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options across the county.
When is the best time to visit Devon?
The summer months (June to August) are the most popular, offering the warmest weather for beach activities. However, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) can be lovely, with milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be charming, especially around Christmas, but some attractions may have limited opening hours.
Do I need a car to explore Devon?
While it’s possible to explore Devon using public transport, having a car gives you more flexibility, especially for reaching rural areas and beaches. However, if you’re staying in larger towns or cities like Exeter or Plymouth, you can manage well with public transport and occasional taxis or organized tours.
Which area is best for a family holiday?
Torbay (the English Riviera) is particularly well-suited for family holidays, with its safe beaches, numerous attractions, and family-friendly accommodations. However, North Devon and South Hams also offer great options for families who enjoy outdoor activities and beach time.
Where should I stay if I want to go hiking?
Dartmoor National Park is the premier destination for hiking enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails for all skill levels. The South West Coast Path, which runs along Devon’s coastline, also provides excellent hiking opportunities, so coastal areas like North Devon or East Devon could be good bases for hikers too.