|
Places To Visit in Devon
|
Castle Drogo
England's youngest castle, designed by Lutyens and built of Dartmoor granite with all the mod-cons of the 1920's. At 300 metres high, it catches the wildest of Dartmoor’s weather. Try a spot of croquet on the croquet lawn or amble through the garden and miles of walks in the Teign Gorge.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
50.695
-3.812
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.905
-3.489
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
Berry Head National Nature Reserve
A haven for rare and threatened species, Berry Head is home to one of the largest colonies of Guillemots on England's south coast. The Visitor Centre lets you watch them on CCTV and there are also many other migrant birds that come to the reserve. The limestone peninsular, which forms the southern arm of Tor Bay, is home to two Napoleonic-era forts as well as gardens rich with wild flowers from May to August and caves that house horseshoe bats.
www.countryside-trust.org.uk
50.399
-3.497
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Berry Pomeroy Castle
Reputedly Devon's most haunted castle, Berry Pomeroy is secreted away in a steep wooded valley. The 15th century ruin still displays a wall painting of the Three Kings in its gatehouse chamber. The great Elizabethan mansion of the Seymours was intended to become the most spectacular house in Devon, a match for Longleat and Audley End, however, it was abandoned by 1700 and subsequently became the subject of many a chilling ghost story, some of which can be heard in the audio tour. To get a good view of the ruin from below, take the woodland walk, although this can be steep in parts.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.15446
50.443
-3.64
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.69226
-3.137698
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
Dartington Hall
Dance, arts, film, contemporary performance, literature, music - there's a year-round programme of events at this wonderful medieval house set on a 1,200 acre estate by the River Dart.
www.dartington.org
50.45166
-3.692619
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/theatres.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exeter Underground Passages
Explore the medival passages that lie beneath Exeter High Street. Learn about the history of the tunnels with an interactive display, exhibition and film, then don a hard hat for a guided tour of the pasages that once piped fresh water to the city.
www.exeter.gov.uk/passages
50.7247
-3.526731
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
51.194
-4.09
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Merrivale Stones
Dartmoor is littered with mysterious standing stones, hut circles and old burial chambers believed to have been constructed up to 5,000 years ago. The stones at Merrivale are probably Dartmoor's most easily accessible, and include the longest double stone row in Europe, a stone circle, menhirs (standing stones) and a kistvaen (burial tomb).
50.555
-4.039
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
National Marine Aquarium
Check out the oceans’ strangest creatures and marvel at the beauty of the coral reef. With 50 live exhibits, three massive tanks, over 4000 animals, and six zones to explore- Explorocean, The Shallows, Atlantic Reef, Mediterranean Sea, Weird Creatures and Coral Seas - there’s plenty to keep the family entertained. Budding scientists and ocean explorers will love Explorocean, two floors of interactive exhibits exploring how technology is being used to help us understand and care for our oceans.
www.national-aquarium.co.uk
50.366
-4.131
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pecorama Model Railway
Up on the hillside above the pretty fishing village of Beer, Pecorama is home to the Peco Model Railway Exhibition and The Beer Heights Light Railway. The miniature railway carries passengers through the grounds, with great views over Beer and Lyme Bay. On site you'll also find children's play areas, crazy golf, a refreshments car and the colourful Millenium Gardens. During the summer, jugglers, magicians and clowns perform at the Top Spot Garden Theatre.
www.peco-uk.com/Pecorama/Pecorama.htm
50.69622
-3.100976
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.901
-3.488
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/museums.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Torre Abbey Histoic House and Garden
Explore the ancient ruins of what was once the wealthiest abbey of its kind in England. Try your hand at brass rubbing, take a stroll in the gardens, visit the galleries and round it off with lunch at the cafe in the old kitchen or out on the terrace.
www.torre-abbey.org.uk
50.465
-3.542
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
RHS Rosemoor
Set deep in the north Devon countryside, The Rosemoor estate was once the home of Lady Anne Palmer. Lady Anne developed a passion for plants when she met noted plantsman Colllingwood Ingram while recuperating from measles in Spain. Over the next 30 years, she travelled the world to collect specimens for her garden, which she gave to the Royal Horticultural Society in 1988. The estate now comprises 65 acres of land, which includes rose gardens, a winter garden, a fruit and vegetable garden, a formal garden, woodlands, and many stream and lakeside plantings, making Rosemoor an enchanting place to visit whatever the season.
www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor
50.94267
-4.137489
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.92586
-3.480653
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.69712
-3.191628
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Garden House
Well, if it’s on Alan Titchmarsh’s ‘must see’ list, it’s good enough for us. This eight-acre garden is actually several gardens in one, combining old and new. The beautiful walled garden surrounds the ruins of a medieval vicarage, while the newly developed Long Walk takes you through a variety of landscapes, from the South African garden, to the cottage garden to the flower meadow, with beautiful views along the way over the Cornish hills, and hidden benches to stop and soak up the sights and sounds of the countryside. Cakes, cream teas and lunches are served in the tea rooms in the 18th Century vicarage. Open February to November.
www.thegardenhouse.org.uk
50.489
-4.145
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beer Quarry Caves
Part of a Natural World Heritage Site. Marvel at the vast underground caverns created by cenuries of quarrying the famous Beer Stone. First worked by the Romans, the underground quarry supplied stone for 24 cathedrals, including Exeter and St Pauls. Quarried by hand, the smallest blocks weighing four tons, the stone was carted on horse-drawn wagons by barges from Beer beach to its destination, sometimes involving journeys of several hundreds of miles. Conducted tours last an hour.
www.beerquarrycaves.fsnet.co.uk
50.699
-3.114
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Killerton House and Gardens
A fine example of 18th Century architecture, Killerton House is home to a vast collection of period costumes - 9,000 items in all - spanning the fashions of the past 200 years. The gardens are the star of the show at Killerton. Beautiful all year round, they put on a wonderful display of rhododendrons and magnolias, set against the backdrop of Devon's rolling countryside.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-killerton
50.79129
-3.453693
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
51.229
-3.827
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
A la Ronde
English eccentricity at its inimitable best. In the 18th Century two spinster cousins, Jane and Mary Palmer, went on a grand tour of Europe. When they returned to England they had this quirky 16-sided house built and decorated the interior with a fascinating collection of mementoes from their travels. The shell-encrusted gallery is reputed to contain nearly 25,000 shells. Get into the spirit of things while you're here by dressing up as a Regency Lady or Victorian Gentleman.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-alaronde
50.64163
-3.409465
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.366
-4.135
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/theatres.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.60809
-3.759007
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dartington Cider Press Centre
This former apple-pressing mill is now a stylish shopping centre, with plenty to do for all the family, whatever the weather. Explore the shops and galleries where you'll find a unique collection of gifts including luxury food, Dartington Crystal, jewellery, ceramics and books, or relax in one of the cafes or picnic areas. Children will enjoy the traditional toy shops and play-zone. There is also a woodland trail around the old Tweedmaill, with its working waterwheel, onto the Dartington Estate. All profits go to supporting the charitable activities of the Dartington Hall Trust.
www.dartingtonciderpress.co.uk
50.447
-3.709
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.641
-3.905
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/heritage.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.697
-3.093
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/galleries.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.435
-3.564
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Seaton Tramway
Scenic tram rides between Seaton and Coylford following the old railway beside the Axe estuary. The route goes through two nature reserves, giving you great views of the birdlife.
Seaton Tramway is celebrating its 40th birthday in 2010.
www.tram.co.uk
50.704
-3.063
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.357
-3.675
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Clovelly Court Garden
This Victorian walled kitchen garden has magnificent greenhouses where melons, apricots, figs, peaches and nectarines grow. Take a stroll on the terraced lawns for fantastic views out to Lundy Island, or take a longer walk through the rhododendrons and woodlands to Clovelly village. The herbaceous borders are ablaze with colour in midsummer. Open March to October.
www.clovelly.co.uk/clovelly-court-gardens.php
51.0003
-4.410982
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Docton Mill Gardens
These unique gardens include wild flowers, a riverside walk and an unusual bog garden. Catch the spectacular display of narcissi in spring when bluebells carpet the woods, or come in summer to see the rosebanks in full bloom. Treat yourself to an award-winning cream tea at the Docton Mill Tea Room, voted Best Cream Tea in Devon at the 2007 North Devon Food & Drink Awards, or try some of the local homegrown produce - the Brixham crab sandwiches and homemade chutneys are firm favourites. Open March to October.
www.doctonmill.co.uk
50.976
-4.518
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Greenway
Agatha Christie's holiday home nestles on a crook of the River Dart in a beautiful woodland garden that is home to such horticultural treasures as Monterey pines, eucalyptus, China roses, myrtle and Turkey oaks. For a magical experience that's also kind to the environment, travel there by boat. 'Green ways' ferries leave from Dartmouth, Brixham and Torquay. Following a major restoration project, The National Trust has re-opened the house to the public, where quirky collections of memorabillia offer a glimpse into the private life of the well-loved crime writer. For house opening times, please visit the website.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway
50.384
-3.586
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
There's plenty to keep you busy here, with 63 acres of stunning gardens, historic glass houses and a woodland railway. Not to mention an Italian garden, Mediterranean and rose gardens, fernery, hermitage garden, pinetum and arboretum. Bicton also boasts 25 champion trees - the tallest/largest of their kind in Britain. At a dizzying 41m, the Grecian fir is the tallest ever recorded. Outdoor and indoor play areas, mini golf, a restaurant, shop and garden centre make it a great day out for all the family. Accepts Tesco Clubcard Days Out Vouchers.
www.bictongardens.co.uk
50.671
-3.318
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Escot
Originally set out by English landscape architect Capability Brown, Escot has more recently come under the green fingers of land artist and television gardener Ivan Hicks. Nature lovers can enjoy the natural historical gardens or the walks and trails in the fantasy woodlands that surround the stately home on this rural Devon estate. Pit your wits in the beech tree maze, see a traditional blacksmith at work, visit the wild boar, the red squirrels or, if you prefer your animals a little fluffier, pay a visit to pets corner. Homemade refreshments are served in the Coach House restaurant. During summer 2010 Escot are running Camp Wild, summer camps for kids. From day camps to five-night stays in the yurt village, children explore the great outdoors in a safe environment with loads of fun adventure activites. Find out more at www.escotcampwild.co.uk.
www.escot-devon.co.uk
50.77693
-3.298626
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.54407
-3.992363
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/family.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lukesland Gardens
Set in a perfect little valley complete with a babbling brook and waterfalls. Find a quiet corner to enjoy the peace and tranquility in the Tudor garden or use your nose to find the Circedephyllum grove - apparently their leaves are so full of sugars that they smell like caramel. Take a strolll through the azaleas, rhododenrons and copper beeches in the Victorian garden, meander by the ponds, or breathe in the fresh scented air of the pinetum. Tea and homemade cakes are available in the Old Billiard Room of the Gothic revival house.
www.lukesland.co.uk
50.403
-3.913
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marwood Hill Gardens
There's lots to see here, with three lakes and some excellent national collections, including the Japanese iris and a large collection of camellia (over 800 cultivars). Magnolias take centre stage in March and April. The Garden Tea Room serves home baked pies and cakes and, naturally, Devon cream teas. Open March to October.
www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk
51.118
-4.081
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50.368
-4.15
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/theatres.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
South Heathercombe
Set in a peaceful wooded valley on Dartmoor, The Heathercombe estate comprises 30 acres of woodland with an arboretum, streams and ponds, plus a cottage garden, orchard and wild flower meadow. There are over 1000 well-labelled specimen shrubs and trees here. The 100 varieties of rhodendron lend a splash of colour, and with one and a half miles of woodland walks and paths there's ample room to stretch your legs.
www.heathercombe.com
50.611
-3.803
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stone Lane Gardens
Famous for its collections of birch and alder trees, Stone Lane Gardens is a five-acre arboretum in Dartmoor National Park. A mixture of shady woodland with streams and bogs where giant-leafed gunnera towers at 7ft, and grassy open slopes. The birch are a blaze of orange and yellow leaves in autumn. In winter, they reveal their smooth peeling bark in a range of soft pinks to earthy chocolate browns.
www.mythicgarden.eclipse.co.uk
50.7
-3.829
http://www.classicguide.co.uk/images/symbols/gardens.png
|
|
|
|
Top 5 West Country Scoops
What's your flavour of the month? Here's our pick of the best ice creams in the South West this summer.
|
|
 | The wide open spaces and big skies of Dartmoor naturally divide Devon into three parts. The North is dominated by sweeping expanses of beach, aching to be sunbathed on, walked on and played on. Green rolling hills and a gentle coastline characterise the South - a haven for food lovers, and home to Meccas like The River Cottage. While Dartmoor’s wild, blustery, romantic moors are the perfect antidote to city life, promising to blow away the cobwebs with a welcome blast of fresh, country air.
|
 | Some ideas to fill a few days exploring the joys of North Devon. |
 | Browse our selection of hand-picked activities for days out and short breaks in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset. |
 | View your personal itinerary of things to do, places to visit and where to eat on your holiday. |
|
