Summer is Over But our Attractions are still Open!

Devon Doesn’t Shut Down When Summer Ends: The Best Attractions Are Still Open as School Starts

As September rolls in and the school term begins, Devon shifts into one of its most underrated seasons. The summer crowds thin, the pace slows, and the county’s landscapes take on hints of autumn colour. For locals and late‑season visitors, this is a golden window: quieter roads, no queues, cooler days, and all of Devon’s best attractions are still open and welcoming guests.

Whether you’re planning weekend adventures with the kids, looking for peaceful walks, or simply wanting to enjoy Devon without the summer rush, there’s plenty to explore.

Why Early Autumn Is One of Devon’s Best Kept Secrets

September and October in Devon is a sweet spot. The weather stays mild, wildlife becomes more active, and popular destinations suddenly feel spacious again. Accommodation prices drop, queues disappear, and you can enjoy the county at a gentler pace.

For families with younger pre-school children it’s the perfect time to visit Devon whether on holiday or a weekend break. A chance to enjoy a quieter, more authentic Devon without the crowds. For locals, it’s a chance to reclaim favourite places with much less hassle.

Exploring Devon outside the summer rush isn’t just enjoyable – it’s meaningful. Visiting attractions in early autumn helps support local businesses during quieter months, keeps staff employed, and ensures these beloved places continue thriving year after year.

Still Open and Still Brilliant: Devon Attractions You Can Visit Right Now

All our attractions are still open but below are a few highlights and events each offering something different, whether you want adventure, nature, creativity, history, or family fun.

Seaton Tramway – enjoy a tram ride through the beautiful Axe Valley or a ride on the Story Tram for some fun storytelling for young children on every month.

Bicton Park Mushroom Foraging Tour 10/11 October – step into the fascinating world of fungi on their guided mushroom foraging tour. Led by knowledgeable experts explore the gardens and grounds and discover a variety of mushrooms and fungi in their natural setting – perfect for beginners.

Haldon Forest – Room on the Broom Tail on throughout the autumn and winter until 3 January. Join Witch’s magical adventure on this interactive family trail with Room on the Broom themed activities, fascinating forest facts and hands on fun. Pick up your trail pack for just £4 from the Information Pod.

Enjoy an autumn sail with Stuart Line Cruises on their Fish and Fizz Evening Cruise on 19 September or their Exeter Canal Cruise on 21 September. Sit back and enjoy the scenery on the oldest working shipping canal in Europe. More trips available – search online.

Try your hand at transforming molten glass into a bird in their Glass Bird workshops available on various dates during September. Suitable for beginners. Other glass workshops available too. Plus from July to December House of Marbles are hosting a stunning mosaic art exhibition in collaboration with the South West Mosaic Artists.

Savour a delicious traditional cream tea at South Devon Railway served at your seat aboard their 1950s Restaurant Car. Available on various dates until 17 October.

South Devon Railway by Jack Boskett

From 12-20 September celebrate Agatha Christie in the place of her birth on the English Riviera.  Step into the area’s outstanding literary and geological heritage. Join them for a week of cultural talks, walks, films, workshops and performances, plus an exciting fringe programme. Visit https:www/.iacf-uk.org to browse and book events.

The Donkey Sanctuary has their Curious Coastal Quest Summer Trail on until 30 September where all intrepid explorers need to find the lost pieces of coast hidden around the sanctuary – find them all and collect your prize.

Visit the ‘Our Killerton’ Exhibition on until 1^st November. Patricia Dixon’s climatic artwork who works in contemporary stained glass and textile who was commissioned to create a new artwork inspired by the people-led stories behind Killerton’s objects.

The Teddy Factory at Dartington Crystal visitor centre offers a delightful interactive experience in their workshop where visitors can create their one-of-a-kind furry friend.

The Box in Plymouth has an exhibition of work by Gillian Ayres (1930-2018) A Life in Colour. She was a brilliant artist who came of age in post-war Britain. There are 26 vibrant paintings on display showing her bold and expressive style. On until 4^th October.

On 13th September it’s Toddler Fest at The Big Sheep in Bideford. If you have a little people under 5 this event is not to be missed. There’s Live Stage Shows, Interactive Games, Toddler Rides, Foam Party, Soft Play, Love to Learn, Sports and Active Fun, Face Painting and so much more to keep the little’uns entertained all day plus lots to do for the bigger kids!

Cruise along the beautiful North Devon coast aboard MS Oldenburg from Bideford to Ilfracombe on 16 September at 10am.

For more autumn events visit the Devons Top Attractions website.

Summer may be ending, but Devon is still very much open. From waterfalls and wildlife parks to castles and coast paths, the county remains full of life as September begins. Whether you’re a local planning weekend adventures or a visitor enjoying a late‑season break, now is one of the best times to explore.