Hidden Gems on the Devon–Somerset Border: Day Trips Worth Discovering

Devon is rightly famous for its rolling hills, cream teas, coastal towns, and moorland hikes—but just over the border lies a quieter, often-overlooked treasure: Somerset. For those staying in East or North Devon, a short hop across the county line opens up a new world of landscapes, villages, and local experiences. So, if you’re looking to deepen your West Country escape, these hidden gems on the Devon–Somerset border are well worth discovering.

Why Explore Somerset While Staying in Devon?

Devon and Somerset may be neighbouring counties, but they offer distinct flavours of rural England. Somerset tends to be quieter, greener, and just a little more off the beaten path—ideal for a relaxing day out. Many of its prettiest spots are less than an hour’s drive from Devon bases like Tiverton, South Molton, or Barnstaple, making it easy to blend both counties into one unforgettable holiday.

Benefits include: Fewer crowds at popular sites, contrasting scenery and architecture, easy access from your Devon accommodation and a chance to experience a true slice of Westcountry life.

Where to Base Yourself in Devon

To enjoy easy Somerset day trips, consider staying in:

• Tiverton – Gateway to both counties, with great road links
• Cullompton – Peaceful countryside base with charm
• Bampton or Dulverton – Pretty border villages, ideal for walkers
• South Molton – North Devon market town, close to Exmoor and Somerset coast routes

Equally if you are staying in Somerset in Taunton, Bridgwater, Chard or on Exmoor the border is not far away and trips to Devon are easy.

Tips for Cross-Border Adventures

• Pack for all weather – You’re still in the West Country!
• Travel early to make the most of your day trips.
• Mix coast and country in a single day, it’s all within reach.
• Support local by visiting farm shops, tearooms, and village pubs.

Attractions near the Devon-Somerset Border

Lundy Island is a granite outcrop which lies 18km off the coast of North Devon. Its location is where the Atlantic ocean meets the Bristol Channel with nothing between it and America and at three miles long and half a mile wide it is a place apart, peaceful and unspoiled. Most day visitors travel on Lundy’s own ferry MS Oldenburg and the ships sails at least three times a week from either Bideford or Ilfracombe. The crossing takes about 2 hours each way, allowing 4-6 hours to explore the island depending on the day you choose to travel.

Quince Honey Farm in South Molton is a family run working honey farm, set in over 40 acres, with beautifully landscaped Nectar gardens that are planted with millions of bee friendly plants. Head to the Honey Factory for a guided tour, enjoy a honey tasting session and roll your own beeswax candle. The Bee Shed hosts the popular Beekeeping Demos. The young and the young at heart can buzz around The Play Hive indoor soft play outdoor play area, lake and picnic area plus enjoy refreshments in the café. Quince Honey Farm is about 35-40 miles from the Devon-Somerset border.

Devon Railway Centre at Bickleigh near Tiverton offers a unique railway experience and boasts a great variety of attractions in one location. Explore the indoor and outdoor railway themed attractions which means the fun can continue whatever the weather. Ride on two different railways, see the model railway exhibition and Edwardian model village. Children can enjoy the indoor soft play area and indoor play coaches with ball pool, sand pit and wooden railways.

Killerton, National Trust is one of the magnificent estates in Devon and is open for all to explore and enjoy. Learn about the amazing history of the Acland family as you stroll through the Georgian mansion. There is a fashion exhibition that changes each year showing the style of different eras. The beautiful gardens are renowned for their beauty with vibrant herbaceous borders and pockets of wild meadow and enjoy a Summer of Play over the holiday. Killerton is about 32 miles south of the border.

Jurassic Discovery is an unforgettable adventure in Seaton, the gateway to the Jurassic Coast. This family friendly attraction brings the age of dinosaurs to life through immersive, lifelike animatronic exhibition. Walk next to these incredible roaring animatronic giants, kids will love the dino-themed soft play area and relax in the welcoming café serving delicious refreshments.

At Seaton Tramway travel 3 miles on the narrow gauge tramway from Seaton to Colyton, seeing unspoilt 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! It’s about 20 miles from the Devon-Somerset border.

Pecorama is the perfect day out for all whether you are a railway enthusiast or garden lover. Home to the famous PECO Model Railway Exhibition and the Beer Heights Light Railway. Lose yourself in the exhibition hall which displays wonderfully detailed railway layouts, head outside to the Millennium Celebration Garden, a series of five celestially themed garden ‘rooms’. Miniature steam locomotives pull passenger trains on a mile long route through the grounds. Children can choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor play areas too. The attraction is about 45 miles from the border.

Explore everything the award-winning Donkey 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. Enjoy the new play area, hedge maze and engaging exhibits. The visit is not complete without enjoying fresh, local and seasonal produce in the restaurant with a fabulous view of the coast and countryside. Friendly dogs on leads are welcome too.

Diggerland is the ultimate adventure theme park experience for children (and adults!) the opportunity to ride, drive and operate real diggers, dumpers and other full-size construction machinery! Over 20 different rides and drives and an array of additional activities. Take a ride on the Spindizzy, enjoy views on the Skyshuttle or go off road on the Groundshuttle. Much to do indoors too; play areas and sandpits and a chance for adults to have a breather… Diggerland is about an hour’s drive from the Somerset border.

Hidden Gems Worth the Cross-Border Trip

If you’re looking for Things to do in Somerset (www.visitsomerset.co.uk) head to this website for more details. The Best Days Out in Somerset can be had at locations and attractions close to the Devon-Somerset border including:

Dunster & Dunster Castle is just inside Somerset, this perfectly preserved medieval village is like stepping into a fairytale. Wander cobbled streets, browse quaint shops, and explore Dunster Castle, perched above the town with panoramic views and lush gardens. Over the summer there’s a Summer of Play and Festival of Archaeology. Plan your visit here  Events at Dunster Castle and Watermill. Distance from Tiverton: 45 mins

At West Somerset Railway ride a heritage steam train through rolling countryside from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, with stops at characterful villages along the way. A magical experience for kids and grown-ups alike. Closest border stop: Bishops Lydeard (50 mins from Devon border)

Exmoor National Park straddles both Devon and Somerset, Exmoor offers wild open moorland, ancient woodlands, and breathtaking valleys. Explore Tarr Steps, Dunkery Beacon, or the deep ravines near Watersmeet. Great for walks, stargazing, or spotting Exmoor ponies. Border access via Dulverton or Simonsbath

Porlock & Porlock Weir – these coastal villages offer timeless charm, sea views, and coastal paths that rarely feel crowded. Enjoy fresh seafood, a pint at the harbour, or the scenic drive up Porlock Hill—not for the faint-hearted! From North Devon: 1 hour via scenic routes

Wellington is a small market town with a big heart. Explore Wellington Monument, visit the independent shops, or take countryside walks in the nearby Blackdown Hills AONB. 20 mins from Tiverton or Cullompton

Sheppy’s Cider Farm, Near Taunton – want a real taste of Somerset? Tour this 200-year-old working cider farm, complete with orchards, a café, and a cider museum. You’ll come for the drinks but stay for the peaceful rural setting. Around 40–50 mins from East Devon

There’s something quietly magical about the Devon–Somerset border. It doesn’t shout for attention, but it rewards those who explore it, whether you’re walking an ancient trail, riding a steam train through hills, or sipping cider beneath apple trees. So next time you’re staying in the south west, as well as enjoying the Best Days Out in Devon, look east or north. Somerset’s hidden gems are waiting, just beyond the hedgerow.

For further details on Devon attraction and to book tickets go to www.devonstopattractions.co.uk