Sightseeing

A day trip for sightseeing in Devon will certainly not disappoint, the region is full of varying contrasts and inspirational ideas for great family days out in North Devon - We are lucky to have some of the most beautiful rugged coastlines and stretches of beaches in the UK, to the remoteness of Exmoor National Park and the rolling green hills of Devon. The landscapes have influenced famous writers, poets, artists and musicians for many years, to include Henry Williamson who was inspired to write the famous book "The Tarka and the Otter" in the village of Georgeham!

Enjoy the richness of North Devon's heritage with large Medieval castles, picturesque gardens and historic cities to the more lively traditions of today's painting and performing arts. Family days out in North Devon could include uncovering the hidden history of Dartmoor's stone circles and magnificent tors, admire gracious stately homes and formidable castles. Learn about our rich maritime past by visiting the picturesque quaint village of Clovelly with its steep cobbled streets and ancient harbour with a portion of fish and chips!

North Devon and Exmoor National Park in particular are unique spots and the vast majority of the coastline comprises of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and privately owned land by the National Trust. Bring your dog on your holiday with us and enjoy multiple dog friendly walks in North Devon, your dog will love exploring just as much as you do ! Our personal favourites are Bridge Cottage in Croyde and Rockpool that welcome a few dogs and perfectly situated near the beach and beautiful coastal paths that make for an excellent holiday for sightseeing in Devon.

Whether you prefer sleepy hamlets, traditional market towns or vibrant coastal resorts offering a wide range of amenities North Devon has a great deal of sightseeing in Devon to explore, our personal favourites are listed below.

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Rosemoor Gardens - Great Torrington

RHS Rosemoor Gardens is 65 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, well presented themed area's and set in a dramatic steep wooded valley. The all year round gardens are an abundance of colour and perfume. Woodland walks, water features and a wonderful place to chill out, relax and absorb the beauty of all RHS Rosemoor gardens has to offer.

Marwood Hill Gardens

20 acres of beautiful gardens and three lakes in a valley setting with Plant Centre and Garden Tea Room. Marwood Hill is open daily from 9.30 - 5.30 (closed Christmas Day). The Plant Centre and Garden Tea Room are open March - October

Hartland Quay to Hartland Point

A 2 mile route with lots of ups & downs and some amazing views towards the Atlantic and Lundy Island.

$Wildlife Cruises - Ilfracombe$

Wildlife Cruises - Ilfracombe

Wildlife Cruises - Ilfracombe Spectacular wildlife and coastal cruises aboard one of the most technologically advanced passenger vessels in the UK. Frequent sights of seals, porpoises and dolphins. Come and enjoy one of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in England!

Arlington Court - Nr Barnstaple

This intriguing and intimate house is crowded with a lifetime of treasures amassed by the well-travelled Miss Rosalie Chichester, including model ships, costumes, pewter and exotic shells. In the 'bat cave' you can watch Devon's largest colony of Lesser Horseshoe bats, and in the stables is one of the finest collections of carriages and horse-drawn vehicles in the country.

Glen Lyn Gorge

Glen Lyn Gorge - you should not miss a visit to this spectacular gorge, through which poured the waters of the 1952 Lymouth Flood Disaster. There are lovely woodland walks by the waterfalls and well made paths climb this beautiful unspoilt valley. Ideal spot to bring a picnic and sit beside the river. Also Power of Water exhibition showing how some of the water from West Lyn River now produces environmentally friendly hydro-electricity. Children can operate the giant waterwheels and water cannons. Collections of steam engines and water operated models.

Clovelly

Clovelly's ancient Devon heritage is enriched by its own unique ingredients of traffic free cobbled streets, donkeys and sledges, and flower-strewn cottages tumbling down a 400 foot cliff. It lingers in the past, with a quality and peace of life that brings visitors of all nationalities to marvel at and enjoy its beauty and tranquillity. There is much to see and do. The visitor Centre has a range of shops and a café, and the audio-visual theatre shows the intriguing history of Clovelly. Nearby is Clovelly Court with its restored Victorian greenhouses and kitchen garden.

Valley of the Rocks

Follow the Toll Road through Woody Bay. Not for the faint hearted a very narrow single road which hugs the cliffs and the passenger will be looking down into the sea, a big drop ! Through the trees and woodland, passing small waterfalls you then emerge suddenly into what feels like another 'planet' Valley Of The Rocks is stunning & Breath taking huge rock formations that have stood for thousands of years. Inhabited by a colony of mountain goats. This road leads you into Lynton & Lynmouth which is another perfect day out - Why not combine the two!

Lynton and Lynmouth Railway

Devon's unique Tourist Attraction A unique Victorian Water Powered Lift, giving access to spectacular cliff top walks. The Cliff Railway joins the village of Lynton to its sister village of Lynmouth, 900ft below. Only a short walk from the beautiful beach at Watersmeet and close to the attractive fishing harbour, shops restaurants and cafés.

Braunton Museum

Braunton Museum is a wonderful insight into the early beginnings of the village. Documenting from the 6th century with the arrival of St. Brannock with Mueseum travels through the time of Braunton Railway, Henry Williamson, Maritime & Wartime History, The Great Fields & Agricultural history. Housing interesting displays of domestic and family histories of the inhabitants of Braunton.

Hartland Abbey & Gardens - Hartland

Hartland Abbey lies across a narrow, sheltered valley which winds its way to the spectacular Atlantic Coast. it contains collections of pictures, furniture and porcelain which have been collected over various generations. The abbey holds a lot of fasinating history and is one of the United Kingdoms national historic house.

Mortehoe

Mortehoe a delightful village perched along the coast from Woolacombe. Renowned for smugglers and ship wreaks it has a pretty church, cream tea rooms, craft shop, fresh fish shop and a Deadly Coast Walk.

Lundy Island

A remote island 12 miles off the coast, Lundy is a haven for wildlife including puffins and seals. It offers a unique escape with its lack of cars, tranquil walking trails, and rugged granite cliffs.

Lee Bay

Known locally as "Fuchsia Valley," this secluded cove is one of the most picturesque spots on the North Devon coast. At low tide, the rocky beach reveals wonderful rock pools and small sandy patches, all framed by dramatic, jagged cliffs and lush greenery.

Hedden Valley

A stunning valley within Exmoor National Park where a wooded river walk leads you directly to the sea at Heddon's Mouth. The towering cliffs here are some of the highest in England, and the area is a designated site of special scientific interest.

Wistlandpound Reservoir

This peaceful reservoir is hidden away on the edge of Exmoor and offers a gentle, accessible circular walk through pine forests and along the water's edge. It is a haven for wildlife, including waterfowl and various bird species, making it a popular choice for birdwatchers and families looking for a flat, easy stroll.

Black Church Rock

Just a short hike through the woods from Clovelly brings you to Mouthmill Beach, home to the massive, dual-arched Blackchurch Rock. It’s a spectacular natural limestone archway that looks like a giant’s doorway.

Bull Point Lighthouse

Starting from the charming village of Mortehoe, a lovely circular walk takes you across the downs to this active lighthouse. The path is dotted with dramatic rock formations and hidden "secret" beaches like Rockham Bay.

FAMILY DAYS OUT IN NORTH DEVON

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