Stay In Cornwall and Visit Devon!
Families looking for holidays in the south west often choose to stay in Cornwall. Visitors can look forward to sandy…
Read MoreThere’s something quietly magical about basing yourself in Somerset while letting Devon’s rugged coastlines and rolling moors unfold just beyond the border. It’s the kind of trip that gives you the best of both worlds: Somerset’s peaceful countryside and heritage-rich towns, paired with Devon’s dramatic scenery and seaside charm. If you’re looking for a getaway that has the best of both world stay in Somerset but visit Devon for a great day out.
Why Somerset Makes the Perfect Westcountry Escape
If you live in the Midlands, South East or further north, Somerset is closer and a shorter drive. The county has a slower rhythm that makes it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Think wide-open fields, cider orchards, and villages where time seems to stretch a little longer. Accommodation tends to be quieter and could be better value than in Devon’s coastal hotspots, but you’re still within easy reach of some of the South West’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you’re staying near Taunton, Wellington, or the Quantock Hills, you’ll find yourself perfectly positioned for day trips across the county line.
The Perfect Westcountry Escape
One of the joys of staying in Somerset is how quickly Devon opens up before you. In an hour/an hour and a half drive you can be standing on a beach, wandering a harbour town, or hiking across wild moorland.
Here are some standout Devon destinations that pair effortlessly with a Somerset stay:
Day Trips Not Far from the Somerset/Devon Border:
National Trust, Killerton – A family home and a great estate. Glorious, landscaped gardens surrounded by parkland with a fine 18th-century house.
Diggerland – ride, drive and operate REAL differs, dumpers and other full size construction machinery. The UK’s only digger theme park.
Devon Railway Centre – train rides, model railways, outdoor play areas, crazy golf, indoor soft play, museum and more!
Dunkeswell Raceway – experience the thrill of outdoor karting on one of the South West’s premier 750m tracks. Plus the ultimate laser tag experience.
Visit Exeter – for History, Culture, and Great Food – Exeter Cathedral, the historic quayside, independent shops, and a thriving food scene make this a brilliant all-weather option. It’s a lovely city with a great selection of shops and historic sights so is. well worth travelling to.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) – world-class collections and ambitious programming ensure this museum is a place of discovery which encourages everyone to be curious, and inspires us to shape a better future.
Dartmoor & Exmoor – For Wild, Wide-Open Adventure if you’re craving big skies and rugged landscapes, Dartmoor delivers. Tors, ponies, ancient stone circles, and miles of walking trails make it a dream for hikers and photographers.
River Dart Country Park – Set in 90 acres of parkland within Dartmoor National Park it is one of Devon’s best-loved family tourist attractions and campsites.
Canonteign Falls – open daily for waterfall walks, adventure play, stunning views, Canonteign Kitchen and Farm Shop. Plus varied special events programme.
Becky Falls – is a Site of Special Scientific Interest with a stunning 70ft waterfall, ancient woodland and wildlife. Enjoy walking trails, animal encounters, café and gift shop.
North Devon – For Surf and Spectacular Views
If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive, places like Woolacombe, Croyde, and Ilfracombe reward you with sweeping beaches and some of the best surf in the UK.
Quince Honey Farm – is a working honey farm and a great day out. From guided tours, soft play and beautiful gardens through to exclusive beekeeping experiences.
Lundy Island – 3 miles long and half a mile wide this beautiful island lies 10 miles off the North Devon coast. Catch the MS Oldenburg and have 4-6 hours to explore.
Watermouth Castle – experience a full family day out with an enchanting mix of children’s rides, attractions and beautiful gardens to explore.
The Joy of Returning to Somerset
After a day of exploring Devon’s coast or countryside, you can come back to Somerset and relax. Evenings here are made for cosy pubs, local cider, and sunsets over fields rather than crowds. It’s the kind of balance that turns a good holiday into a great one.
A West Country Combination That Just Works
Staying in Somerset while visiting Devon gives you freedom, variety, and a sense of calm that’s hard to beat. You can dip into Devon’s highlights whenever you like, then retreat to Somerset’s peaceful embrace at the end of the day. It’s a simple formula, but a wonderfully effective one.
If you’re planning a West Country escape, this might just be the perfect way to do it.
