Visit East Devon | Best Things to Do in Devon 2026

Visit East Devon – Best places to visit in East Devon

There’s so much to see and do in East Devon, brimming with top tourist attractions – a rugged Jurassic coastline and lovely beaches!

Ideas for days out in East Devon

East of Devon is a fabulous place to visit whether it be for a walk on a dog-friendly beach, explore the nearby towns such as Sidmouth and Seaton, walk along the Jurassic Coast; perhaps one of the most attractive areas of the county? Most of the area is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site.. There are nature reserves and stunning wetlands to see the bird life as well as dramatic cliffs that line the coast and many places of historical interest inland and by the sea to explore, its a great place to head for a family day out.

Things to do in East Devon
If you’re looking for things to do in Seaton then Seaton Tramway  is one not to be missed!

Travel back in time and travel 3 miles on the narrow gauge tramway from Seaton to Colyton, unspoil countryside along the beautiful Axe Valley. Open top double deckers for panoramic views of the estuary or if the weather is not that kind enclosed saloons, something for all weathers! Trams run daily with the chance to see wildlife and discover some hidden secrets, the opportunity to journey back in time to a golden age of travel. You can even be a Tram Driver for the day! Don’t forget to pick up a keep sake to take home and check out the delicious menu on offer at both ends of the track.

Jurassic Discovery is Devon’s unmissable dinosaur attraction. Ideal for families, school trips, and dinosaur fans of all ages. Located in the heart of Seaton on the world-famous Jurassic Coast, this unique experience brings you face-to-face with life-sized, roaring, animatronic dinosaurs in our immersive Jurassic Experience – The Last Day of the Dinosaurs. Young children can work off energy in the dinosaur-themed soft play, while adults relax in the café or enjoy the outdoor Jurassic Garden with its Dino Dig

Dunkeswell Raceway is a fantastic venue and the ultimate karting adventure for individuals (novice or experienced), stag and hen do’s, birthdays and corporate entertaining. Their outdoor track is 750m long, making it an impressive outdoor circuit which provides you with the experience of racing against the elements, taking you closer to the professional racing formulas. Plus Combat Lab is the best Laser Tag experience in town! All of their products and packages can be tailored to suit your needs, just give the team a call for further details.

If you are looking for things to do near Sidmouth then pay a visit to the The Donkey Sanctuary and you won’t be disappointed.

Explore everything the sanctuary has to offer all year round, whatever the weather. Activities, tours and talks there is much to explore! Not forgetting the large number of donkeys with their own names and characteristics. They are all waiting to meet you and you can even adopt your own in the gift shop. The visit is not complete without enjoying fresh, local and seasonal produce in the restaurant with a fabulous view of the coast and countryside. Plus, you can follow the trail down to a secluded beach.

Bicton Park Botanical Gardens is a gardeners delight but it’s a super Devon family day out too with something for everyone.

Over 60 acres of beautiful gardens, sweeping lawns, elegant water features, English borders and formal gardens and plenty for the children too! Take a walk the arboretum among some majestic trees, the Palm House has a wide selection of palms and tropical plants. Head out to the little house of shells, the secret garden or the lake. For the children; a miniature village, large climbing camp and acres of informal gardens to explore and tire themselves in nature! Relax and enjoy a meal or snack in the restaurant with breath-taking views across the gardens.

If your are searching for things to do near Exmouth then look no further than World of Country Life  and enjoy this popular East Devon animal farm park visitor attraction.

A day out for the whole family! Amazing mix of animals, adventure and play areas, museums and entertainment awaits. Originally a working farm so expect hands on animal activities, including goat walking! Don’t miss a ride on the Deer Train Safari which is a must do! Outside plenty to do, trampolines, swings, slides, zip line, air bouncer and Harry the Harvester – a full sized wooden combine harvester play area. Don’t forget to go back in history and remember days gone by in the museum of working farm machinery and Victorian street.

If you fancy going on a boat trip in Devon then step aboard Stuart Line Cruises 

Who have been offering award-winning East Devon boat trips for over 50 years, this is something to definitely not miss out on. All weather attraction sailing all year round, whether it be the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe and along the World Heritage Site Jurassic coast in the summer months or when a little cooler grab a blanket and hot drink and enjoy the stunning scenery. A wide range of cruises and day trips available; river and mini coastal cruises or head out along the coastline for a longer trip whatever the weather! They also offer special Guided Devon Birdwatching Cruises along the River Exe and are ideal for anyone whi wants to see the many thousands of birds that migrate to the area during the autumn and winter months.

If you want to visit one of the best theme parks in Devon then Crealy Theme Park and Resort  is worth spending a Devon day out at.

The ultimate family day out, over 60 rides and attractions with the option to camp/glamp or stay in a hot tub luxury lodge! Not just rides and attractions, animals (lots of!), an enormous undercover play area and outdoor adventure areas to explore! Perfect family fun day out whatever the weather. If you don’t want to leave and go home; extend your stay and check into Crealy Meadows and enjoy the theme park again the day after! Don’t forget the spectacular entertainment and live shows. Also, don’t miss  seeing the NEW Sooty Land addition to the park.

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Dunkeswell karting

Dunkeswell Raceway

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Family enjoy meeting the giant Poitou donkeys

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Bicton Park Botanical Gardens

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