Things to do South Devon | Devon 2024

Visit South Devon and some of the best days out in Devon.

Unspoilt coast and countryside, historical sites, memorable adventures, and top attractions what more could you want?

Torbay, the South Hams, Start Bay, the English Riveria whichever words or area we refer to, South Devon presents you with the perfect opportunity to explore everything and anything for everyone! Areas of Outstanding Beauty, a World Heritage Coast, Dartmoor National Park and miles of spectacular coastline with the addition of the vibrant cathedral city of Exeter not far away in East Devon, and the numerous choice of coastal and rural towns and villages ready for you to and stay whatever your accommodation preference guarantee a fantastic day out in Devon.

South Devon has a wealth of activities for all ages to enjoy. Miles of footpaths, coastal walks, cycle trails, unspoilt beaches, woodland and numerous nature reserves for those wanting to explore on foot or bike as well fantastic water sports in seaside towns such as Salcombe, Dartmouth, Exmouth and Plymouth. The main cities of Exeter and Plymouth both offer a fantastic full day’s entertainment for every visitor and smaller centres such as Totnes, Kingsbridge, Teignmouth and Dawlish all have so much to offer with vibrant mixture of big brands and boutique independent shops selling unique gifts that make great souvenirs, an array of quality restaurants and cafes and parks and gardens that make every visit a pleasure. South Devon has many dog friendly beaches and walking trails so there’s plenty of opportunity to work up an appetite before you stop off at the numerous cafes, pubs and farm shops or simply enjoy fish and chips on a seaside bench.

There are so many things to do in Devon and fantastic attractions for families in South Devon that a trip wouldn’t be complete without spending some time at these top venues:

If you have young children and want some fun on the farm, then a visit to the award winning Pennywell Farm , one of Devon’s top animal farm parks is a must Devon day out.

With a different activity, show or display every half hour, hundreds of friendly animals and a selection of free rides you will receive a very warm welcome! Bottle feed baby animals, race ferrets, explore ponds or cuddle one of the world famous Pennywell miniature piglets or groom and pamper a very sociable slightly larger pony! Pennywell Pig Racing is a must, and you probably haven’t experienced anything quite like it before – come and see it for yourselves!

South Devon Railway is just the ticket for a day out at one of the best days out in Devon.

Seven mile steam railway running between Buckfastleigh and Totnes, a branch line of the former Great Western Railway. Climb aboard a steam or diesel engine and sit back! The line passes through some of Devon’s most attractive countryside running next to the River Dart for the majority of the journey. At Buckfastleigh there is a riverside walk and picnic area, gardens, a captivating museum, workshop, a well shocked shop for all ages and a refreshment room with the option of course of a Devon cream tea.

Looking for top Devon beaches, then head for Blackpool Sands near Dartmouth, South Devon.

An area of outstanding natural beauty and an award winning Blue Flag beach what better place to enjoy a family day out besides the sea. Blackpool Sands is privately managed and has kept its standards high, this is also the ideal place to start or finish a walk along this part of the South Devon coastline. Sandpits just for the children so they can remain safe or if you like to add a little adrenaline to your day why not consider kayaking or paddle boarding in the clear blue seas?

If you are searching for top Devon attractions for families then head to one of the best days out in Devon to Woodlands Family Theme Park  one of the largest theme parks in the South West.

Action packed and be a superhero for the day! Fantastic events, workshops and shows including a real life dinosaur! Indoors or outside there is plenty to entertain the whole family for the day with the option to camp overnight. The largest water coasters in Devon; this is just one of 11 play zones full of rides with huge indoor play centres to explore, so much to list. Animals play a big part here too; indoor barns full of wild, exotic and cute animals with a daily display at the falconry centre.

Visit Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City for a top Devon day out and a great mix of family things to do in Devon.

Plymouth has the best of both worlds; easy access to the south west coastline and Dartmoor National Park. Hundreds of years of history literally as we commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower ship when it set sail from Plymouth to America in 1620. Attractions, activities, shopping, sport and leisure, entertainment and nightlife make sure not to miss this vibrant city ocean city.

Find other Devon tourist Attractions on Dartmoor here

Find more top Devon attractions in Torbay here

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