Discovering Devon – A Hidden Gem in Britain

Unspoilt villages, rugged moorland and golden beaches – Devon is brimming with heritage, natural beauty and fresh sea air. From tranquil boat trips along the Jurassic Coast and hikes through National Parks to surfing in azure waters and tucking into locally caught seafood, here’s a taste of all Devon has in store if you’re dreaming of a British adventure…

With the Bristol Channel to the north and the English Channel to the south, Devon is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Britain.

Why not start with Croyde Bay, in North Devon. This glistening beach is surrounded by sand dunes and benefits from impressive waves, making it a popular surfing spot. If you’re longing for sand between your toes, you can also visit nearby Woolacombe Beach, which boasts three miles of uninterrupted golden sand to explore. Alternatively, there’s Saunton Sands. Suitable for beginner surfers and swimmers, this picturesque beach is highly accessible with all-terrain wheelchair hire on offer and is backed by Braunton Burrows, a system of sand dunes teeming with rare local wildlife.

Fancy sitting back and enjoying a tour of Devon’s coastal delights? Hop on a Stuart Line Cruise to enjoy a calming voyage down the River Exe, or glide alongside England’s only natural World Heritage Site, the stunning Jurassic Coast and its fossil-filled cliffs, which reveal 185 million years of history.

Devon’s natural beauty doesn’t stop at the coast. Travel a short distance inland from Torquay or Plymouth and you’ll discover the rugged moorlands, river valleys and ancient stone circles of Dartmoor National Park. It’s also home to herds of wild ponies, which have roamed the area since prehistoric times. Just one of Dartmoor’s gems is Haytor. Located in the south-east of the Park, here you can discover striking granite rocks and sweeping panoramic views. If you’re visiting North Devon, you can also take a trip to Exmoor National Park, which boasts miles of cycling and hiking routes to explore.

In addition to the region’s sweeping countryside and stretches of coastline, you can discover some of Devon’s rich heritage at Buckfast Abbey. Located within Dartmoor National Park, this unique church was founded by King Canute in 1018. Widely known for the production of Buckfast Tonic Wine, it is still home to a community of Benedictine monks today. Marvel at the elaborate stone architecture, wander the picturesque lavender gardens or even enjoy a stay in the Abbey grounds.

Devon’s historic seaside towns and unspoilt fishing villages are another jewel in its crown. These include Clovelly, North Devon, a 14th-century cliff-side village once owned by the Queen of England. South Devon is also laden with cosy coastal settlements, including Dittisham and Hope Cove, an idyllic village nestled alongside the South West Coast Path.

Source: visitbritain.com

#VisitBritain #Devon #EnglishChannel #Bristol #Beaches #Culture #Coastal #Moorlands #NationalPark #Cycling #BuckfastAbbey