Although Devon is a small county, there are many things that it’s famous for! Whether you’re trekking across the infamous moors, surfing on the glorious beaches, or relaxing in the dramatic countryside, you will find that there are activities for everyone to appreciate.
Lynton and Lynmouth
The adjoining villages of Lynton and Lynmouth are a must-see when visiting Devon. They encapsulate all that Devon has to offer as they sit between the stunning coastline and the edge of Exmoor, with quaint cafes, stunning walks, a beautiful beach and a welcoming community you are guaranteed to be charmed by all it has to offer.
The Valley of Rocks
To the west of Lynton lies ‘The Valley of Rocks’ which is mostly famous for its geology, its herd of goats and mesmerising views. The area possesses some of England’s highest sea cliffs, and if it isn’t enough, you can also climb up Castle Rock and feel on top of the world as you look out to the Bristol Channel.
The valley also leads to the Lee Abbey Estate which has several wooded walks, as well as a small lane which leads you to Lee Bay; a sheltered yet sandy beach which is known best for its kayaking and wild swimming. There are many picnic areas situated around the valley and even a café with both outdoor and indoor seating. Car parking and public toilets are also available close by.
Cliff Railway
Lynton and Lynmouth’s Cliff Railway is a unique experience available for all, as it shows you the picturesque views of the coastline. It’s one of the world’s oldest and steepest water-powered railways as it ascends down an 862-foot-high cliff. Take in the breathtaking views of Exmoor National Park, the harbour, and the Bristol Channel. You can also enjoy a cream tea in the quaint Cliff Top Café where you can also relax and take in the stunning sight of the bay. The railway is open daily from February to November, with many seasonal events and offers to enjoy throughout the year.
Flood History
On 15th August 1952, Lynmouth suffered from a highly dramatic river flood, which many describe as the worst river flood in English History. Over 9 inches (230mm) of rain fell, and 6 inches (150mm) of this fell within only a few hours towards the afternoon/early evening. Lynmouth was essentially destroyed during the night, since the rainfall flooded into tributaries of both the East and West Lyn rivers, and several bridges blocked the flow of debris which caused them to collapse.
After the damage, 114,000 tons of rubble were cleared from the village. Although some of it was used to extend the Esplanade Car Park, the majority of it was dumped into the channel and separated by the tides. It took almost 6 years to restore Lynmouth, so if you visit Lynmouth it is well worth visiting the Glen Lyn Gorge which tells the story of the flood as well as offers you a stunning and easy walk which includes a waterfall.
The Beaches Of Devon
The beaches located in Devon a truly unrivalled by that of the rest of the country. They boast dramatic coastlines paired with soft sands and turquoise blue water. With a range of beaches and coastal towns to choose from you could easily spend your entire trip exploring all the Devon coastline has to offer. Some of the top beaches to visit are:
Saunton Sands
Situated on the North Devon coastline, Saunton Sands Beach holds a beautiful 3-mile stretch of gorgeous golden sand, which is protected by the UNESCO Braunton Burrows Biosphere Reserve. The beach is dog-friendly all year round, since there aren’t any summer restrictions and has one of the best wave breaks for learning how to surf.
Saunton Sands is surprisingly a well-known filming location, as many films such as Edge of Tomorrow, Pink Floyd: The Wall, and the upcoming Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom have been filmed there.
Croyed Beach
If you are looking to experience a local beach like no other, then Croyed is the one for you. This small village is known for its local surfing community as it is home to one of the heaviest winter waves in the country. Come summertime it is bustling with delicious places to grab a bite to eat, local surf shops to parous and long-haired friendly local surfers to strike up and chat with.
Lee Bay
When you think of a picturesque bay, Lee Bay often comes to mind. As the cliff faces enclose the bay on each side the water is remarkably clear and at low tide, the rocks reveal a secret pathway to an enclosed cove that is perfect to spend the day in. The calm waters offer a fantastic environment to try water sports activities such as paddleboarding, which is partially lovely on an evening as the sun set between the cliffs.
The World Surfing Reserve Announcement
Recently, North Devon has been announced as the 12th location for the World Surfing Reserve, since the area has been recognised for its high quality and range of surf breaks, as well as its beautiful surroundings, its innate historic surf culture, and its great importance to the wider community.
National Parks: Exmoor and Dartmoor
In contrast to the incredible beaches of Devon, the Devonian moorlands boast stunning tours and valleys which are home to ancient woodlands and native wildlife (such as wild Dartmoor ponies!)
Exmoor
Exmoor is one of the UK’s smallest National Parks at just 693 square kilometres. Despite its size, it makes up for it with its beauty and vastness. There is plenty to do and see whether that’s with the family or just you and your partner. Exmoor is officially an International Dark Sky Reserve due to the fascinating display of stars that are visible when the sun goes down, which makes it a perfect location for camping.
Dartmoor
Dartmoor holds the largest and wildest area of open country in the south of England. Its 954 square kilometres has many activities for everyone such as wild swimming, horse riding, climbing, kayaking and even fishing. You may prefer to explore castles, visit museums, and learn about local myths and legends; Dartmoor is the perfect place for these exciting attractions.
Both book and TV dramatization settings of Sherlock Holmes and The Hound of the Baskervilles were set on Dartmoor, and this moorland is steeped in magic and mystery, with centuries of folk tales to lose yourself in.
Parson Jack Russell Terrier
Parson Jack Russell Terriers specifically gained their name after the breed’s creator, John (also known as Jack) Russell, was born in Dartmouth in 1795. Russell came from a hunting family, which made him determined to discover a hard-working breed of terrier that could hunt well for foxes. Russell obtained his first fox terrier named Trump, from a milkman whilst studying at the university in Oxford, in around 1815. After his university days in Oxford, he returned to the county to work as a churchman in North Devon. The story is that Trump was crossed with a Devon hunt terrier to produce the Parson Jack Russell breed, which is also known as a Parson Terrier.
The Devon Cream Tea
The origin of cream tea is often debated between Cornwall and Devon, but according to local historians, the infamous British “cream tea” originated in Devon at Tavistock Abbey during the 11th century. Both Devon and Cornwall are recognised for their cream tea and over the many years it has become a tradition when you visit either county.
The debate over whether cream or jam should be added first is continuous and still to this day divides the counties. Here in Devon, it’s traditional to add cream first, but as long as you’re enjoying it then there’s no real need to worry! At Northcote, we offer delicious Devon cream tea, so you can immerse yourself in the Devonian culture.
Where To Stay In Devon
Our 18th-century North Devon Spa and Manor House Hotel, which was originally a home for Benedictine monks, prides itself in being a friendly, high-quality North Devon sanctuary, which makes it the perfect destination for a calm staycation.
All 16 rooms have been created to display the history and heritage of Northcote Manor, as they are decorated with classic furnishings and rich fabrics. Whether it’s a standard room or a honeymoon suite, we have something for everyone for any occasion. Contact Northcote Manor to book your stay at a beautiful North Devon Hotel and Spa.