Best places
to explore in beautiful Devon, UK
If you
are looking for somewhere “local” to have a great holiday, you can’t go
wrong with Devon. Located in southwest England, Devon has plenty to offer.
The county features beautiful beaches, quaint, medieval towns, stark cliffs
and lovely moorland
national parks to explore. Let’s take a look at three of the best destinations
to visit for a great holiday in Devon.
Rightfully
dubbed the English Riviera, a series of harbour towns lie along the Devon
coast, including Brixham, Paignton and Torquay. Once you are settled
in one of the comfortable and well-equipped Independent
Cottages in the area, head out to explore the many attractions close
by.
The
picturesque town of Torquay overlooks the English Channel and is famous
for its beaches with quaint names such as Oddicombe and Babbacombe. Staying
in Babbacombe, the kids will enjoy the 4-acre miniature town, which featured
scaled-down versions of some of the most iconic British landmarks, including
Stonehenge.
There
is a marina to explore and the town center offers plenty of shops, cafes
and restaurants. Other attractions include Torre Abbey, a monastery that
was first founded in 1196. Today, visitors can see extensive gardens and
art galleries here. Kents Cavern is a Stone Age cave site offering guided
tours and archaeological exhibits. Head to Living Coasts, an oceanfront
zoo which offers a huge aviary area including habitats for seabirds and
penguins.
Staying
in the fresh air, head to Cockington Country Park, with its enjoyable walking
trails through landscaped gardens and a wooded area. Another fascinating
site to visit is Berry Pomeroy Castle, the remains of which were formerly
a medieval manor. Nearby, visit Compton Castle, an estate from the 14th
century surrounded by pretty formal gardens.
2. Exeter
on the River Exe
Exeter
is an ancient cathedral city, nestling on the banks of the River Exe in
Devon. The Exeter City Walls date from the Roman era and encircle the city.
Of particular interest to visit is Exeter Castle, a Norman castle, which
overlooks the beautiful Northernhay and Rougemont Gardens. Also visit Exeter
Cathedral is an impressive Gothic structure in the city and pictured below.
The Royal
Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery is the place to see fine art and
beautiful historic costumes, while a particularly exciting visit can be
made to the vaulted, medieval Underground Passages underneath the city.
The unique passages date from the 14th century and were originally used
to transport water under the city centre.
3. Devon
Wildlife Trust
Heading
away from the cities, the Devon
Wildlife Trust is a group working hard to protect Devon, its environment
and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy walks in nature, or if they wish, can
get involved in efforts to cut back scrub at the Barley Valley Park, in
order to protect the beautiful wildflower meadows.
Other
upcoming community activities include orchard tree planting with the community
group from Ludwell Life. These activities are not only enjoyable and fun
in the fresh air, but mean that you too can do your best to protect the
environment and ecosystem of this beautiful area of England.
Experience
a holiday in Devon next year, whether at the beach, in the cities or exploring
the beautiful surrounding countryside.
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