Are you searching for a fun family-friendly staycation destination this summer? Devon is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the UK, so it’s no surprise that every summer, families flock to the golden sandy beaches to soak up the sun. Carry on reading to find out why Devon is the perfect place for a family holiday this summer, and what exciting activities you can fill your time with.
Why is Devon the Perfect Place for a Summer Staycation?
Devon is one of the most picturesque counties in the UK, boasting two coastlines and 300 miles of beautiful Devonshire shoreline, as well as two National Parks and five official Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region boasts an incredible combination of heritage, history, sandy beaches, unspoilt countryside, and endless activities to take part in.
With beaches of all shapes and sizes, visitors can enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the sun and reading a book, taking part in all kinds of water sports (including learning to surf!), or enjoying a leisurely swim in the deep blue sea. Devon is well-known for its stunning countryside and rural communities, so there’s no shortage of fantastic hikes which boast unparalleled views of the stunning county.
The Best Places to Visit in Devon This Summer
Widely thought of as one of the best beaches in the UK, Woolacombe Beach is located on Devon’s north coast. The three mile stretch of golden sand is a popular summer holiday destination for families, with a small village lying at the north end of the beach. Lifeguards operate on the beach, where you’ll see many people walking, swimming, kayaking, surfing, and flying kites. The award-winning beach is overlooked by the South West Coast Path and edged with sand dunes, boasting superb views to Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel.
Also on the north coast of Devon is Croyde Bay, one of the county’s most spectacular sandy beaches. Rated as one of the best surfing beaches in the world, Croyde Bay is popular with swimmers, experienced surfers, and of course, sunbathers. The beach is bookended by rock pools, perfect for discovering all kinds of aquatic wildlife, and there are several public footpaths to the nearby village which offer spectacular views… Baggy Point is a must-see!
Devon is home to some glorious vibrant gardens, perfect for family days out exploring and discovering. Knightshayes in Tiverton is a beautifully kept National Trust garden with one of the most outstanding botanical collections in the country. The gardens are surrounded by 262 acres of land which are home to county and country champion and veteran trees, and in the centre of this natural beauty lies a Gothic Revival house with amazingly opulent designs.
Nestled in north Devon’s Torridge Valley is RHS Garden Rosemoor, a stunning public display garden run by the Royal Horticultural Society. This enchanting garden is home to the infamous Tarka the Otter, as well as the largest rose gardens in the South West. Discover enchanting lakes, streams, waterfalls, fruit and vegetable gardens, natural flower meadows, and bluebell carpeted woodland. There are often seasonal events being held at RHS Garden Rosemoor, so check out their website before you go to see what’s on.
One of the best ways to really take in the beauty of Devon’s coastline is to embark on a walking or cycling adventure. The Tarka Trail is an incredible 180-mile figure-of-eight loop inspired by the route travelled by Tarka the Otter. Just waiting to be discovered are views of unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs, and the longest continuous cycle path in the UK – it truly is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of North Devon.
A slightly shorter walking and cycling trail is the East Devon Way, a 38-mile path which takes adventurers from Exmouth to Lyme Regis. Following footpaths, bridleways and stretches of quiet lanes, the route passes through the heart of East Devon, which is well-known as an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The path links to the South West Coast Path, the scenic Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, and the Exe Estuary.
Fun-Filled Family Breaks at Exe Valley Glamping this Summer
If you’re looking for an idyllic location for your family to escape to the countryside and breathe in the sweet Devon summer air, Exe Valley Glamping is the perfect place for you.
After a full day of adventuring across magnificent beaches and glorious gardens, you can return to our luxury safari lodges and enjoy some family down time, toasting marshmallows, discovering wildlife under logs, and taking a paddle in the pebbled streams. All our canvas tents come with board games, puzzles and books, great for winding down at the end of a busy day.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your Devon staycation at Exe Valley Glamping today.