Romantic Breaks in Devon: Where to Stay, What to Do and How to Avoid the Crowds

Devon is one of England’s most romantic destinations for couples — but the key to a truly special break is knowing where to stay, when to go and how to avoid the crowds. From thatched cottages with cosy fires to quiet villages and epic walks, this guide shares the most romantic things to do in Devon, plus insider ways to enjoy it calmly and beautifully.

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Where To Stay on a Romantic Devon Break

Voted one of Devon’s best places to stay on a romantic break by The Times, Tatler AND Conde Nast Traveller, Moorland View Cottage places you in the heart of Dartmoor, where many of Devon’s most memorable experiences begin at the door.

This luxury thatched cottage on Dartmoor is for couples who want quiet surroundings, beautiful walks from the door, cosy fires and time together — without busy resorts or crowds. With a crackling log fire, a huge bath for two, dreamy Dartmoor views and a rose garden, Moorland View is the perfect destination for relaxing and easy romantic breaks, honeymoons and mini-moons. If you want your holiday to feel calm and unrushed, choosing the right accommodation makes all the difference.

Moorland View in Dartmoor, Devon

Is Moorland View the best place for your romantic break?

✔️ A peaceful, romantic cottage for couples
✔️ A luxury break that feels relaxed rather than formal
✔️ Easy access to Dartmoor walks, scenery and villages
✔️ A calm, adult-focused atmosphere with no shared facilities
✔️ An ideal base for anniversaries, mini-moons and meaningful time away
❌ Large group or family-focused stays
❌ Busy nightlife, resorts or on-site entertainment

• Wood-burning stove (firewood supplied)

• Pop-up home cinema

• Copper slipper bath for two

• Dreamy Dartmoor views

• Thatched village gastropub

• Dartmoor walks from the doorstep

• Luxury spa and country club nearby

• Close to Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park

• Sunny walled rose garden

• Complimentary welcome hamper & wine

• Sonos music system

• Exclusive insider travel tips

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The Best Things for Couples to do on a Romantic Devon Break

Star-gazing on Hound Tor

Here are some of our favourite date ideas for couples — the kinds of days that shape an unforgettable romantic break in Devon. Some of are well known — and deservedly so. But some of the most authentic, memorable travel experiences often happen off the beaten track. Guests who book a stay at Moorland View receive access to our private, guest-only guides, where we share all our very best insider secrets. It’s our way of helping you experience Devon at its most romantic — and least rushed.

• Romantic Walks With Big Views And No Crowds

  Stroll around picture-perfect thatched villages
  North Bovey is our favourite places because of its local walks and hidden gems close to the cottage, but Lustleigh, tucked away in a wooded cleave, comes a close second. It’s a rural idyll with a 13th-century church, cricket pitch, communal orchard, tea room, village shop and a friendly pub. The walk there from the cottage is one of our favourites.

  Climb a Dartmoor tor
  For a heady shot of country air and instant perspective, take the walk up Easdon Tor — the hill you see from the main bedroom window at Moorland View. At the top you’ll get 360-degree views and likely company from grazing Dartmoor ponies.

  Walk to Lustleigh
  The walk from North Bovey to Lustleigh is a classic: gorgeous views, a Roman fort and the magical woodland glen of Lustleigh Cleave. There’s a pub at the end. Book a taxi back if you don’t fancy returning on foot.

  Walk a Dartmoor gorge
  Taking in a fairy-tale castle, an oak-lined gorge, an ancient stone bridge and a traditional pub, this two-hour walk along the River Teign is one of Dartmoor’s most romantic routes. Woodland paths, shaded pools and tiny rocky beaches make it perfect for picnics and toe-dipping. Finish with cream tea at Fingle Bridge Inn.

  Take in a view
  Haytor is one of Devon’s most famous viewpoints. On a clear day you can see the coast, estuary, moors and rolling countryside. The Rock Inn in Haytor Vale is a good food stop afterwards.

  Visit an ancient oak forest
  Wistman’s Wood is a rare remnant of Dartmoor’s prehistoric dwarf oak woodland. Moss-furred oaks and boulder-strewn ground make it feel otherworldly. The easy walk starts near Two Bridges.

  Visit the White Lady Gorge
  Lydford Gorge is one of Devon’s most romantic natural landscapes: deep oak woodland, tumbling water and the dramatic White Lady Waterfall. Go early for the quietest experience.

  Climb to a 12th-century hilltop church
  Dartmoor’s rugged landscape offers endless opportunities for private walks. One of the most romantic places to visit in Devon is the tiny parish church of St Michel de Rupe on Brent Tor, with spectacular views across the moor.

• Food, Wine and Fireside Tables for Two

  Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant
  Gidleigh Park is a grand Tudor-style manor set in woodland near Chagford, known for its refined cooking and extensive wine list. Make an occasion of it and walk the grounds beforehand.

  Drink Dartmoor ale straight from the cask
  The Rugglestone Inn in Widecombe-in-the-Moor is a moorland classic: flagstone floors, open fires and ale poured straight from the barrel, with a sheltered garden and wide views.

  Dine at a country inn on the edge of the moor
  The Dartmoor Inn near Lydford blends old-world charm with modern cooking and is perfectly placed for a walk beforehand. Booking ahead is wise.

  Have lunch at a floating river café
  The River Exe Café off Exmouth is a floating pontoon serving ultra-fresh seafood. Closed in winter and booking is essential in summer.

  Eat crispy squid by the sea
  The Beach House at South Milton Sands is a weather-beaten shack right on the sand — ideal for a relaxed, romantic coastal stop.

  Shuck oysters by the estuary
  The Oyster Shack near Bigbury is famed for its freshness, serving oysters pulled from the nearby River Avon.

  Eat at a cosy pub with French flair
  The Millbrook Inn at South Pool mixes Devon comfort with French touches, live gypsy jazz and summer fish barbecues.

  Eat fish and chips by the harbour
  Rockfish in Dartmouth serves excellent fish and chips alongside locally landed seafood in a relaxed waterside setting.

  Indulge in a traditional Devon cream tea
  The Endsleigh near Tavistock is known for its generous scones, thick clotted cream and elegant, fireside surroundings.

• Castles, Grandeur and Sights with ‘Main Character Energy’

  See how the other half live
  Powderham Castle near Topsham is one of Devon’s oldest family seats, set in a deer park and open for tours through its medieval, neo-classical and Victorian rooms.

  Take a tour of Britain’s last castle
  Castle Drogo near Drewsteignton, designed by Lutyens, offers sweeping views over the Teign Gorge and a fine walk nearby. Check restoration updates before visiting.

  Have Sunday lunch on a tidal island
  Burgh Island’s art-deco hotel is gloriously atmospheric. Non-residents can dine on Sundays when tides allow. Booking is essential.

  Visit a grand Georgian house
  Saltram House near Plymouth has a refined Robert Adam interior and a setting familiar to fans of period drama.

  Visit Agatha Christie’s holiday home
  Greenway, near Dartmouth, remains wonderfully intact, with beautiful gardens overlooking the River Dart. Arriving by ferry is especially scenic.

• Water, Wild Swimming and Romantic River Days

  Swim in a stream-fed pool
  The outdoor pool at Chagford sits beside the River Teign and feels as close to nature as swimming gets. It’s bracing but unforgettable.

  Swim in the River Dart
  Spitchwick offers clean water, leafy surroundings and natural swimming pools. Go early on warm days to avoid crowds.

  Boat up the River Dart
  From Dartmoor to Dartmouth, the River Dart is perfect for gentle boat trips or private picnic cruises, with opportunities to stop off along the way.

  Go sea kayaking
  Guided sea-kayak trips along the south coast reveal caves and coves inaccessible on foot, with seals often close by.

  Go canoeing or kayaking on the moor
  The River Dart offers some of Dartmoor’s best paddling routes, with guided excursions available for different abilities.

  Fish for your supper
  Dartmoor’s rivers and reservoirs are renowned for wild trout and salmon, offering wonderfully peaceful fishing spots for licensed anglers.

• Suzy’s Top Secret Romantic Places

  We could list every secret here… but then they wouldn’t be secrets!

  We’ve spent years discovering Devon’s most magical, uncrowded spots — and we don’t give them away lightly!

  Book a stay at Moorland View and we’ll quietly pass on the insider tips that make all the difference. Our most precious Devon discoveries are reserved for Moorland View guests, shared once you’ve booked — just between us.
  
  🗝️ Unlock our guest-only Devon guide

• Road Trips, Big Skies and the Kind of Days You’ll Always Remember

  Take a road trip across the high moor
  A drive across Dartmoor takes in ancient bridges, granite tors, thatched villages and 14th-century churches — one of Devon’s most romantic ways to explore.

  Stargaze under dark skies
  With little light pollution, Dartmoor is perfect for stargazing. Hound Tor is an easy, romantic spot for watching the Milky Way on clear nights.

  Take to the skies in a hot-air balloon
  A balloon flight over Dartmoor or towards the coast is a breathtakingly romantic way to see Devon from above.

• Beaches, Coastal Walks and Salty Air

  Bask on a beautiful beach
  From sheltered coves near Salcombe to wide sandy bays further west, Devon’s south coast offers romance year-round. Go early in summer for the quietest experience.

  Walk the South West Coast Path
  Clifftop paths between Bolt Tail and Bolt Head offer big views, hidden coves and a sense of wildness that’s hard to beat.

  Visit Salcombe
  Pretty in every season, Salcombe is ideal for wandering, sandy coves and lingering harbour-side lunches.

  Drink in a pirate’s island haunt
  The Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island is rich in history and drama — and reaching it at low tide or by sea tractor adds to the romance.

  Watch the sun set on a west-facing bay
  Croyde Bay is one of Devon’s best sunset spots, with sweeping sands and dramatic cliffs glowing at dusk.

• Romantic Little Towns for Browsing, Cafés and Pottering

  Stock up in Chagford
  A charming stannary town with good cafés, delis and independent shops, perfect for a slow afternoon. Note the half-day closing on Wednesdays.

  Hunt for antiques in Ashburton
  Elegant and full of character, Ashburton is known for antiques, good food and a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere.

  Take a city stroll in Exeter
  Historic streets, a Norman cathedral and a lively quayside make Exeter ideal for a gentle cultural day out.

  Visit Topsham
  This estuary town is full of narrow lanes, waterside pubs and antique shops, with a wonderfully relaxed feel.

• Is Devon good for a couples’ getaway?

  Yes — especially for couples who enjoy nature, good food, beautiful places and privacy rather than busy resorts.

• When's the best time of year for a romantic break in Devon?

  Devon is romantic in every season, but many couples prefer:

  • Autumn for colour, calm and fireside evenings

  • Winter for moorland walks, starry skies and cosy pubs

  • Spring for blossom, birdsong and fresh light

  • Early summer for long evenings before peak crowds arrive

  Some of the most magical stays happen outside school holidays, when Devon feels slower and more intimate.

  Visit our FAQ page for more romantic break booking tips

• How can I avoid the crowds on a romantic break in Devon?

  The simplest way to avoid crowds in Devon is to choose the right location and timing. Staying inland on Dartmoor, rather than in busy coastal resorts, gives you immediate access to quiet walks, peaceful villages and open landscapes — even during peak season.

  Travelling in spring or autumn, visiting popular places early or later in the day, and choosing a well-located base so you’re not constantly driving between hotspots all make a big difference. Many of Devon’s most romantic experiences happen away from the main tourist centres, where the pace is slower and the atmosphere more intimate.

  When couples book a stay with us, we also share our detailed insider tips — including the quietest times to visit, lesser-known walks and uncrowded places that aren’t obvious from guidebooks — so guests can enjoy Devon at its most relaxed and unspoilt.

• Is Dartmoor or the coast better for a romantic break?

  Both are romantic, but they offer very different experiences.

  Dartmoor is ideal for couples who want privacy, space and atmosphere. Expect wild moorland walks, misty sunsets, crackling fires, dark skies and peaceful villages where you can spend whole days without seeing crowds. It’s especially romantic outside peak summer and perfect for slowing down and reconnecting.

  The Devon coast suits couples who love sea views, beach walks and lively harbour towns. It’s beautiful, but often busier, particularly during school holidays, and usually involves more driving between places.

  For many couples, the best choice is Dartmoor as a romantic base, with the coast enjoyed as a day trip. This gives you calm, seclusion and cosy evenings, while still having Devon’s beaches within easy reach — without the crowds or constant travelling.

• Are there any romantic, dog-friendly cottages in Devon?

  Yes — there are dog-friendly romantic breaks in Devon, especially if you choose a private cottage like Moorland View rather than a hotel.

  Many couples want to bring their dog without sacrificing peace, privacy or atmosphere, and rural Devon is ideal for this. Areas like Dartmoor are particularly popular, offering quiet walks, open landscapes and dog-friendly pubs — perfect for relaxed days out together.

  Moorland View Cottage offers a dog-friendly romantic break for couples who want both comfort and character. One well-behaved adult dog is welcome, and the cottage’s peaceful village setting, moorland walks from the door and cosy interiors mean you don’t have to compromise on romance to bring your dog along.

  For couples, the most romantic dog-friendly breaks in Devon are those that combine seclusion, beautiful scenery and a stay designed around adults, rather than busy, multi-dog holiday parks or large hotels.

  Many couples choose Dartmoor for a romantic escape with their dog, thanks to its peaceful walks, open landscapes and relaxed, dog-friendly pubs. Moorland View Cottage welcomes one well-behaved adult dog, offering couples a secluded, characterful base where they can enjoy privacy, cosy interiors and moorland walks straight from the door — without compromising on romance.

• Where is the most romantic place to stay in Devon?

  The most romantic places to stay in Devon are peaceful, secluded locations rather than busy resorts. Many couples find Dartmoor especially romantic, thanks to its wild landscapes, ancient villages and sense of escape.

  Set in the historic Dartmoor village of North Bovey, Moorland View Cottage is designed specifically for romantic breaks. This thatched, Grade II-listed cottage offers privacy, a wood-burning stove, a copper bath for two and easy access to Devon’s most beautiful walks, restaurants and spas — making it an ideal base for a truly romantic stay.

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Shhh! Devon’s best beaches are too good to share on the internet!

Brent Tor is one of Devon’s most romantic destinations

Along with our recommendations below, Moorland View guests receive access to top secret spots which are too special to put on the internet! We include:

• Quieter walks and alternative routes

• Uncrowded viewpoints and swimming spots

• Lesser-known cafés, pubs and picnic places

• Tips on timing popular sights to avoid crowds

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• Top Tips for Honeymooning in Devon

• The best places to propose in Devon

• A scenic Dartmoor road trip perfect for couples

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About the author

This blog is written by Suzy Bennett, The Telegraph’s Devon travel expert and owner of Moorland View Cottage. Suzy has been welcoming couples to Devon’s most romantic corners for over 20 years — combining first-hand local knowledge with real hosting experience to help guests plan unforgettable romantic breaks.

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10 Romantic Things to Do in Devon for a Dreamy UK Honeymoon

Wondering where to go for a UK honeymoon? Devon is one of England’s most romantic destinations. From secluded beaches and wild moorland walks to candlelit pubs and stargazing, these 10 dreamy, romantic things to do in Devon are perfect for couples celebrating the start of married life.

This blog’s author, Suzy Bennett, has been helping newly-weds enjoy honeymoons and mini-moons at Devon’s Moorland View Cottage for over 20 years.

View fullsize

Start your married life surrounded by rolling Devon hills at Moorland View Cottage, a dreamy honeymoon hideaway.

1. Stay in a Traditional Devon Thatched Cottage

Enjoy all the luxury of a boutique hotel, with the space and privacy of your own home, at Moorland View, the perfect romantic Devon cottage for honeymoons or mini-moons. Nestled in an idyllic thatched village in the hills of Dartmoor National Park, Moorland View is just a short drive from a five-star spa and country club, where you can relax in the pool, sauna, or enjoy sports facilities.
🛌 Discover our luxury honeymoon cottage in Devon

2. Take to the Skies

For couples wanting a dash of adventure to their Devon honeymoon, nothing beats a hot air balloon flight at dawn or dusk over Dartmoor’s epic landscapes. Virgin Balloon Rides offer group flights from nearby Okehampton, with prices from £179 per person.. On a clear day you may see as far as Yes Tor or even High Willhays –the highest point on Dartmoor and the highest in the UK south of the Brecon Beacons. You might also spot some of the famous Dartmoor ponies as they roam semi-wild across the moorland. Flights along Devon’s stunning south coast are also available.
🛌 After your sky-high adventure, return to the comfort and charm of Moorland View — book your stay now

3. Walk Along a Dartmoor Gorge

Discover one of Devon’s most romantic walks along the Teign River. This two-hour route takes you along an oak-lined gorge, past a fairytale castle, an ancient stone bridge and a traditional pub. Take Hunter’s Path for elevated views, or follow Fisherman’s Path along the wooded riverbank, spotting kingfishers, woodpeckers, trout, salmon, and even otters. Stop at Fingle Bridge Inn for a riverside drink or picnic. In spring, the woodlands here are carpeted with bluebells and daffodils.
🗝️ SECRET WALKS. Our best-kept secret walks are saved for our guests. Book a stay with us and we’ll reveal our hidden Dartmoor.

4. Bask on the Beach

Devon is home to some of the UK’s most stunning beaches, perfect for honeymooners seeking a romantic day out. Blackpool Sands has a mile-long shingle beach and charming cafe. Thurlestone is another romantic spot, complete with a rustic beach shack cafe serving delicious local food.
🗝️ SECRET BEACHES. Dreaming of your own private slice of sand? Book a stay with us and we’ll reveal hidden Devon coves that you’ll have (almost) to yourselves - even in the height of summer

Fingle Gorge

Stargazing on Hound Tor

We’ll reveal our favourite secret beaches and hidden coves when you book a stay with us!

Take a romantic hot-air balloon flight on your Devon honeymoon

5. Boat Up the River Dart

Sail along the River Dart, winding from Dartmoor to Dartmouth, for a picture-perfect Devon honeymoon experience. Choose from charming yachts, pleasure boats, or the UK’s last coal-fired paddle steamer. For ultimate privacy, hire the Banquet Boat for two, complete with bespoke menu, champagne, and stops at secluded bays.
🛌 Finish your romantic day on the water by returning to Moorland View — book your stay now

6. Take a Vineyard Tour

Sandridge Barton is a romantic must-see, offering breathtaking views of the River Dart and Capability Brown-designed hillsides. Taste sparkling and white wines, paired with local cheeses, and enjoy lunch at their stunning Roam restaurant. Pre-booking is essential for a truly indulgent Devon honeymoon experience.
🛌 After your wine-tasting adventure, retreat to the comfort of Moorland View — find out more

7. Enjoy a Tête-à-Tête in Grade-I Listed Gardens

The Endsleigh Gardens in the Tamar Valley are a fairy-tale destination for a Devon cottage honeymoon. Wander the Grade-I listed gardens, with grottos, hidden glades, and shell houses, before indulging in a Devonshire cream tea by the fireside in the grand drawing room.
🛌 After your visit, return to the privacy of your own Devon honeymoon cottage

8. Dine at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant

For a special night out, Gidleigh Park offers Michelin-starred dining in a Tudor-style country manor set in 107 acres of Dartmoor woodland. Creative menus and a 50-page wine list make it a must for honeymooners who love fine dining. A pre-dinner romantic walk around the grounds completes the experience.
🛌 After a gourmet evening out, return to your private luxury Devon cottage. Click to find out more

9. Lunch at the River Exe Café

For a quirky, unforgettable lunch, hop on a water taxi to the River Exe Café, a floating shed serving ultra-fresh seafood. Arrive via the Topsham–Exmouth cycle path for a scenic journey. Open in summer only, booking is essential.
🗝️ SECRET PLACES TO EAT. Want to know more local gems? Book a stay at Moorland View now and we’ll send you a password to unlock all our favourite places to eat that you won’t find in any guidebook

10. Stargaze
Our best idea for a gorgeous Devon cottage honeymoon is to go stargazing. With clear, dark nights, Dartmoor is a fantastic place to view the night sky, with the Milky Way often clearly visible.  
🗝️ SECRET STARGAZING SPOTS. Want to know where the best place near North Bovey to stargaze is? We’ll reveal all when you book your stay!

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10 Reasons to Book a Romantic Winter Break on Dartmoor

Moorland View Cottage in the snow

Ranked by London’s Evening Standard as one of the UK’s cosiest holiday cottages for winter breaks, Moorland View in North Bovey, Dartmoor, offers a magical off-season escape. Here are ten reasons to visit this winter.

Dartmoor is not for wishy-washy winters. Here, the season is cold and crisp, with soft winter sun and fresh, invigorating air that makes your skin tingle and your cheeks turn a natural blush. If you’re dreaming of a romantic winter break in Devon, Moorland View Cottage is the perfect base. Some of the UK’s most epic Dartmoor winter walks are right on our doorstep, from open moors and granite-topped tors to forested glades and ancient oak woods.

1. Magical Winter Woods

Denuded of leaves, local oak forests reveal gnarly, sculptural branches dripping with moss and colourful lichen. The ancient dwarf oak woodland of Wistman’s Wood is especially atmospheric in winter.

2. Epic Dartmoor Winter Walks

Wrap up in cosy knits and explore miles of open moors, forest glades, and scenic tors. Winter walks on Dartmoor are refreshing, invigorating, and completely romantic.

3. Stargazing Like Nowhere Else

On clear, cold nights, the stars in Dartmoor shine brighter than almost anywhere in the UK. With minimal light pollution, the Milky Way is clearly visible - perfect for a romantic winter night.

4. Luxury Bath for Post-Walk Relaxation

Our boutique Devon cottage has the biggest, most luxurious bathtub you’ll find in Devon, perfect for soothing aching limbs after a long Dartmoor winter walk.

5. Cosy Log-Burning Stove

Cuddle together by the log-burning stove, with the doors open for the full crackle experience, or shut for extra warmth. Firewood and marshmallows are provided for a quintessential romantic Devon winter evening.

6. Thatched Village Pub Nearby

The Ring of Bells, our local thatched pub, is the cosiest you’ll ever visit. With wood-beamed walls, log-burning stoves, friendly locals, and fabulous seasonal food, it’s the perfect spot after a day exploring Dartmoor.

7. Affordable Winter Prices

Winter stays start from just £180 per night, significantly less than summer breaks, making a romantic countryside break in Devon accessible even on a tighter budget.

8. Snowy Fun & Winter Play

There’s a chance of snow! Imagine sledging down local slopes like in The Holiday, then warming up with hot drinks in our cosy pub.

9. Peace and Privacy

Dartmoor and North Bovey get busy in summer, but in winter you’ll enjoy the countryside largely to yourself - quiet lanes, empty moors, and peaceful forests.

10. Unforgettable Memories Await

From cosy evenings by the fire to exhilarating winter walks and star-filled skies, a stay at Moorland View Cottage promises a truly unforgettable romantic winter getaway in Devon.

Moorland View is featured in AOL’s Best Cosy Cottages for Winter Breaks

A Scenic Dartmoor Road Trip

A Scenic Dartmoor Road Trip — Starting and Ending at Moorland View Cottage

Moorland View: The Perfect Starting Point

Set in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, North Bovey is one of Dartmoor’s prettiest and most unspoilt villages — and home to Moorland View Cottage. With no streetlights and barely any traffic, it’s a calm, restorative place to begin and end each day.

Enjoy a slow farmhouse breakfast back at the cottage, then set off knowing every stop on today’s route sits comfortably within reach.

1. Explore a Bronze Age Village at Grimspound

Your first stop is Grimspound, one of Dartmoor’s most atmospheric ancient sites. Dating back to around 1300 BC, this stone-walled settlement contains 24 Bronze Age hut circles enclosed by a granite perimeter wall.

Its haunting setting famously inspired Conan Doyle and appears in The Hound of the Baskervilles. Free to visit and open year-round, Grimspound is a powerful introduction to Dartmoor’s ancient landscape.

2. Visit an Ancient Oak Forest at Wistman’s Wood

Continue towards Two Bridges to visit Wistman's Wood, a rare remnant of Dartmoor’s original oak forest. Twisted dwarf oaks, thick with moss and lichen, rise from a boulder-strewn floor, creating a scene that feels almost mythical.

The gentle one-hour return walk is achievable for most visitors. Afterwards, pause for lunch or a cream tea nearby before continuing the loop.

3. Discover Dartmoor’s Dramatic Past at Princetown

In the centre of the moor lies Princetown, home to the formidable Dartmoor Prison Museum. Once housing some of Britain’s most notorious offenders, the museum offers a fascinating and unsettling insight into the prison’s past.

If the museum feels a little intense, Princetown itself is still worth a short wander, with its stark setting and sweeping moorland backdrop.

4. Stretch Your Legs Where the Rivers Meet at Dartmeet

Stretch your legs at Dartmeet, where the East and West Dart rivers meet beneath an 18th-century stone bridge. In warmer months, the shallow water is ideal for paddling; at any time of year, it’s one of the most scenic stopping points on the moor.

5. Wander One of Dartmoor’s Prettiest Villages: Buckland-in-the-Moor

Next, visit the tiny hamlet of Buckland-in-the-Moor, one of Devon’s most irresistibly pretty villages. Wander among its thatched cottages, step inside the ancient church, and walk above the village to find the Ten Commandments carved into exposed rock.

6. Browse Independent Shops and Delis in Ashburton

Known as the gateway to the moor, Ashburton is an elegant town whose prosperity was founded on cloth and tin. Today it’s a pleasure to explore, with antique shops, delis, cafés and well-regarded restaurants lining its slate-hung streets.

Ashburton is also the most convenient fuel stop on this route before heading back onto the open moor.

7. Visit the Iconic Moorland Village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor

One of Dartmoor’s most beautiful villages, Widecombe-in-the-Moor is a highlight of the drive. Its church, St Pancras, is crowned by a towering spire often called the Cathedral of the Moor. Inside, boards recount the dramatic storm of 1638, when lightning struck during a service and the Devil was blamed.

Pause for lunch at the Rugglestone Inn, with open fires and flagstone floors, or browse the National Trust shop in the square, known for woollen blankets and locally made homewares.

8. Walk to Breathtaking Views at Hound Tor

Before heading home, stop at Hound Tor, one of Dartmoor’s most accessible viewpoints. A short walk leads to sweeping views across the moor, with the remains of a medieval village lying just below the tor.

9. Return to Moorland View Cottage

As the light softens over the hills, return to Moorland View Cottage. Light the fire, sink into a deep bath, or wander down to The Ring of Bells for dinner and a drink.

This is the pleasure of staying somewhere perfectly placed: no long drives at the end of the day, just the feeling of having explored Dartmoor at its best — then coming back to somewhere quietly special.

Book Your Stay at Moorland View Cottage

Experience Dartmoor like this: unhurried, beautifully circular, and centred on one exceptional place to come home to.

AT A GLANCE

• Starting point: North Bovey (from Moorland View)

• Typical duration: Half day to full day (flexible)

• Best for: Scenic driving, gentle walks, photography, first-time Dartmoor visitors

• Best seasons: Spring to autumn (clear winter days can be stunning too)

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This scenic drive is just one of many carefully curated Dartmoor experiences we share with our guests. When you stay at Moorland View Cottage, you’ll also receive:

• Quiet road suggestions most visitors miss

• Best timings to avoid crowds

• Seasonal food and pub recommendations

• Walks matched to weather and energy levels

The best Dartmoor experiences aren’t in the guidebooks — they’re shared here!

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ROUTE

North Bovey → Grimspound → Wistman’s Wood → Princetown → Dartmeet → Buckland-in-the-Moor → Ashburton → Widecombe-in-the-Moor → Hound Tor → North Bovey

Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

Dartmeet

• Why start this Dartmoor scenic drive from Moorland View Cottage?

  Starting in North Bovey means you’re immediately on some of Dartmoor’s quietest, most beautiful roads. There’s no need to cross busy sections of the moor first, and you avoid doubling back later in the day.

  Guests staying at Moorland View benefit from a natural circular route, shorter driving distances and the flexibility to dip in and out of stops depending on the weather. It’s an ideal “slow travel” Dartmoor experience — especially for a romantic break.

  Many guests tell us this is their favourite day of their stay.

• What do I need to know about driving on Dartmoor?

  There is one main road that runs across the centre of Dartmoor, with cuntless narrow, country lanes leading off it.

  Drive slowly and carefully. Sheep, ponies and cattle often wander onto Dartmoor roads, and many are injured or killed each year by speeding vehicles.

  On narrow lanes, the driver closest to a passing place usually reverses. If you’re not confident, it’s fine to wait — and always offer a friendly wave of thanks.

  Book your stay at Moorland View Cottage to experience Dartmoor like this: unhurried, beautifully circular, and centred on one exceptional place to come home to.

• Are there any petrol stations on Dartmoor?

  Petrol stations are few and far between on the moor. The most reliable fuel stop on this route is in Ashburton.

• Where is the best place to stop for lunch on this Dartmoor scenic drive?

  One of the most reliable and relaxed lunch stops on this route is in Widecombe-in-the-Moor. The village has a small selection of welcoming cafés clustered around the green, making it easy to park nearby and enjoy an unhurried break.

  Widecombe is especially good for light lunches, homemade cakes and coffee, and it’s a natural pause point before heading back across the moor. On quieter days, it’s a lovely spot to linger and soak up the village atmosphere before continuing the drive.

  We share timing tips with Moorland View guests to help you arrive before the busiest periods.

• Best time of year for a Dartmoor road trip

  Late spring through early autumn offers the best balance of long daylight hours and road conditions. Clear winter days can be magical, but always check weather and visibility before heading out.

  We provide seasonal advice to guests on arrival.

• Grimspound: what is it and is it worth stopping?

  Grimspound is one of Dartmoor’s most atmospheric prehistoric settlements — a Bronze Age village set high on the open moor. Stone hut circles sit within a protective wall, with sweeping views across the landscape.

  It’s a short, gentle walk from the parking area and an excellent early stop to stretch your legs. On quiet days, it feels wonderfully remote and timeless.

• Wistman’s Wood: how difficult is the walk?

  Wistman’s Wood is an ancient, moss-draped oak woodland that feels almost mythical. The walk is uneven and rocky but relatively short, making it accessible for most reasonably fit visitors wearing sturdy shoes.

  Mist, low light and twisted trees make this one of Dartmoor’s most photographed places — especially atmospheric in cooler months.

Grimspound

Wistman’s Wood

Ashburton

Widecombe in the Moor

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Devon's Best Swimming Spots

Bovey Castle

If you’d rather not expose yourself to the elements, Bovey Castle has a beautiful Art Deco indoor pool with far-reaching views of the estate and Dartmoor beyond. In summer, there are sun loungers on the sunny terrace.

Moretonhampstead Swimming Pool

Don’t be put off by its location behind the town’s car park. Behind the walls of Moreton Pool is a peaceful 25m, community-run outdoor pool that’s the perfect place for cooling off on summer days. Heated by air source heat pumps and solar power, you can swim comfortably even when the sun is hiding behind the clouds. There’s a small grassy area for sunbathing. Leave before 3pm on sunny days if you want to avoid hordes of schoolchildren.

Chagford Swimming Pool

Just a ten-minute drive from North Bovey, Chagford Pool can't be far from heaven. Swallows nest in the changing rooms and dive-bomb the swimmers, and with the sound of the river Teign running past stepping stones, it's as relaxed as a swimming pool gets. Its river fed and heated with air source heat pumps that are supplemented by solar panels, so is a balmy 26c.

The Dart at Spitchwick

The leafy setting, the clean water (that brown colour is healthy peat) and the sheer fun of Spitchwick justifies its popularity. There’s a gorgeous swimming and picnic spot with a high corner pool, a deep, tranquil lower corner pool for serious swimmers; and a cliff for daredevil jumpers. It can get busy on a hot day as families gather to picnic on the common, and parking can be a problem - get there early for a space, or walk the half-mile from the car park at New Bridge. Peaty water, clean from the mountain, this is the most popular and accessible Dart swimming location, especially in summer. Also known as Deeper Marsh, it has been a bathing place for generations. Grassy flats lead to rocky river shore, deeper on far side with high cliff behind.

Salmon Leap, Fingle Gorge

This deep pool in Fingle Gorge is bliss in summer. The Teign cascades into three Victorian square stone plunge pools, each about 1m deep and smooth-lined, so great for a pummelling massage! Park by the humpback bridge just after Mill End hotel and walk up to the Iron Bridge, where there’s a beach area and rocks for picnicking on.

Blackpool Sands

You’re spoilt for choice for places to swim on Devon’s south coast, but our favourite is Blackpool Sands for its beautiful position, fantastic beach cafe, safe currents and summer-round lifeguards.

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Devon's Best Interiors Shops

Antiques, rustic baskets, pottery and rugs - Devon’s homeware shops are some of the most interesting in the UK. Here are our favourites.

Nkuku, Totnes

Baskets from Nkuku, Totnes

Signposted by a fashionably rusting modernist sign, Nkuku, on the outskirts of Totnes, is a rustic-chic repository of artisan creations from India, Vietnam and Africa – all handpicked by husband-and-wife team Alex and Alistair Cooke. Think pyramid terrariums created by a latch maker in Uttar Pradesh, hand-loomed Rajasthani block-print jute rugs, ceramics, pretty Mawia bead bracelets made in West Bengal, and Kadira leather journals crafted in Delhi. They have a lovely cafe.

The Shops At Dartington, Totnes

Artistic education centre Dartington Hall also houses an unusual shopping experience – you’ll find everything here, including natural beauty products including colourful kitchenware. At the lovely Re-Store shop, volunteer artists restore and upcycle old materials into covetable homewares. And the Tanner Bates Leather School produces hand-stitched and high quality leather goods, from luggage tags to messenger bags.

Fountain Antiques, Honiton

The small market town of Honiton has no less than 85 antiques shops, selling everything from carriage clocks to leather-bound books. Most have stalls at Fountain Antiques, on the High Street, with a handful selling the lace for which Honiton was once famed. Honiton Fine Arts sells gorgeous mid-century English oil paintings, while Strummer Pink, sells colourful artwork, mirrors, lighting, rugs and blankets made by local artisans. Take a breather at rustic café Toast.

Powdermills Pottery, Dartmoor

As the name suggests, Powdermills was once a gunpowder grinding mill, the gunpowder being used to blast rocks in the local tin mines. Located near Two Bridge, the granite buildings of the former mill now house a rustic pottery and traditional tea shop.

Quay Antiques, Topsham

The estuary-side town of Topsham is a delight: its narrow lanes wind towards the harbour, which is ringed with restaurants, pubs and antique shops. Other attractions include an appealing run of 18th-century Dutch-style gabled houses, a long riverside strand, huge antiques market on the quayside. Many shops close on Sundays. 

Ashburton Antiques, Ashburton

Dubbed the gateway to the moor, Ashburton is an elegant town whose fortunes were founded on cloth and mining. It is one of Dartmoor’s four stannary towns, where tin was bought to be taxed – and its fine slate-hung frontages house a well-to-do selection of antique shops.

Devon Guild of Craftsmen

The Devon Guild is the largest contemporary crafts centre in the South West, displaying beautiful pieces in an idyllic riverside setting, this former millhouse on a river in Bovey Tracey stocks a lovely range of products made by local artisans, including pottery, wrought iron pieces, jewellery and leatherwork. There are art and craft exhibitions, housed in airy white-walled studios, and upstairs is a rustic café, which sells a delicious salads and homemade cakes.

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Day Trip: Totnes

THINGS TO DO IN TOTNES

A Norman castle, stunning vineyard and some of Devon’s best shopping, Totnes is an all-round crowd-pleaser. Here’s a selection of our favourite things to do on a day out in Totnes.

Totnes Castle

SIGHTSEEING

Totnes Castle

High on a hilltop above town, Totnes Castle is among the best-preserved examples of a Norman 'motte and bailey' castle (a round keep sitting on a raised earthwork). The views over Totnes's rooftops and the South Hams beyond are captivating, but the interior is largely empty. Look out for the medieval toilet (but don't use it).

Totnes Fashion & Textiles Museum

Beautifully displayed 18th- to 20th-century garments, Totnes Fashion Museum is set in one of Totnes' finest Tudor merchant's houses.

Dartington Estate

Henry VIII gave this pastoral 324-hectare estate to two of his wives (Catherines Howard and Parr). For many years Dartington Estate was home to the town's art college; now the 14th-century manor house hosts events, including renowned classical-music and literature festivals. There's also an art-house cinema. The grounds are also worth exploring. It's about 2 miles northwest of Totnes. Dartington's 14th-century manor house edges a grassy space reminiscent of an Oxbridge quadrangle. In the landscaped gardens impressive terraced banks frame an area known as the Tiltyard, while flower-filled borders lead down to glades, meadows and thatched cottages. Amid the tiny paths and secret benches you can hunt out Henry Moore's carved stone sculpture Memorial Figure, the swirling bobbles of Peter Randall Page's Jacob's Pillow and the bronze Donkey by Willi Soukop. The Japanese Garden, complete with raked gravel and cedar-wood shelter, is beside the ruined church.

Sharpham Vineyard

Three miles south of Totnes off the A381, Sharpham Vineyard is chiefly known for its crisp, sparkling white wines, as well as its delicious cheeses. Perched above the meandering River Dart, it's become one of the UK's best-known winemakers. You can explore the vine-covered slopes solo, followed by a wine and/or cheese tasting in the shop, or plump for the full guided tour. After a tour of the vines, sit down for delicious food from a daily-changing blackboard menu at the rustic bistro of Sharpham Wine & Cheese. The choices revolve around local treats, so expect smoked fish, crab salad and Lyme Bay scallops, as well as the estate's own wines and cheeses. It's all delicious. Book ahead. Opens longer hours in summer.

Berry Pomeroy Castle

Two miles east of Totnes, this ruined castle was originally built by the feudal Pomeroys in the 15th century. Within the walls is a second stronghold, a Tudor mansion constructed by Edward Seymour, the 1st Duke of Somerset. Unfortunately, the Seymour clan's fortunes turned for the worse after the English Civil war, and by 1700 Berry Pomeroy was nothing more than a ruin – and has remained so ever since. It's notorious for ghostly goings-on.

SHOPPING

Totnes High Street

Hippyish Totnes is a place where the independent spirit is cherished – they even have their own currency, the Totnes pound. This is the place to shop for wholefoods, eco and organic stores. Aromatika sells organic and natural skincare products made in Devon, while Arcturus Books stock mind, body and spirit titles. The Seeds2Bakery uses only local organic stone ground flour, while the Wild Fig Deli specialises in gluten-free and vegetarian food. Drift Records stock new music, with a policy that ranges from left field minimal tech house to home-recorded roots music from the Appalachian Mountains. Me and East and Busby and Fox both sell gorgeous homewares.

Earth Food Love

Earth Food Love, which opened on Totnes High Street in March 2017, deserves a special mention for being the first zero-waste shop in the UK. Inside, almost every inch of the modestly sized shop is crammed with a dispenser of some sort, for everything from pulses, grains and dried fruit to detergents and bamboo toothbrushes – all organic and free of plastic and pesticides. They’re ahead of the game on the anti-plastic revolution and have become the pin-ups for others doing the same, from the Bulk Market in east London to other people around the country wanting to follow suit. The idea is you take your own container – whether it’s a Tupperware, tin can or reusable bag (they’ve even had someone using pillowcases), fill up with food, weigh and pay. There’s not a plastic bag in sight, nor anything wrapped in the shiny stuff. For them, it’s not about making a profit; it’s about consuming food and everyday products in a way that doesn’t cost the earth.

The Shops At Dartington

Artistic education centre Dartington Hall also houses an unusual shopping experience – you’ll find everything here, including natural beauty products, colourful kitchenware and a classy food shop, where 80% of the produce stocked is made, reared or grown in the West Country. At the lovely Re-Store shop, volunteer artists restore and upcycle old materials into covetable homewares. And the Tanner Bates Leather School produces hand-stitched and high quality leather goods, from luggage tags to messenger bags.

Nkuku

Signposted by a fashionably rusting modernist sign, Nkuku, on the outskirts of Totnes, is a rustic-chic repository of artisan creations from India, Vietnam and Africa – all handpicked by husband-and-wife team Alex and Alistair Cooke. Think pyramid terrariums created by a latch maker in Uttar Pradesh, hand-loomed Rajasthani block-print jute rugs, ceramics, pretty Mawia bead bracelets made in West Bengal, and Kadira leather journals crafted in Delhi. They have a lovely cafe.

Conker

A special shout out goes to Totnes institution Conker, who will knock you up a pair of distinctive, bespoke brogues for a surprisingly decent price.

EATING AND DRINKING

The Almond Thief, Dartington

The sourdough bread at craft bakery The Almond Thief is legendary, but they’ve also just branched out into a cafe business, serving a cracking artisan breakfast. The menu changes weekly, but look out for Bob’s dynamic poached eggs from neighbouring Huxham’s Cross Farm, served on sourdough with Rust Pig 24-month cured ham and asparagus. Wash it down with a cup of Crankhouse coffee.

The Curator

This Italian cafe has a cult-like following with Devon coffee aficionados and is lauded for its espresso. The brunch menu runs all day. Go for poached eggs served with either crispy prosciutto, house-made sausage or roasted peppers and avocado. Another favourite at The Curator is the Italian BLT, served on freshly-made focaccia.

Riverford Field Kitchen

This ecofriendly, organic, plough-to-plate farm is where everyone wants to eat when they visit Totnes. Riverford Field Kitchen began as a food-box scheme, and has now branched out into a delightful barn bistro, where diners sit communally at long wooden tables and share dishes of the day. Rustic flavours rule: expect delicious salads, roast meats and imaginative veggie options. Bookings required.

Sharpham Wine and Cheese

After a tour of the vines, sit down for delicious food from a daily-changing blackboard menu at the rustic bistro of Sharpham Wine & Cheese. The choices revolve around local treats, so expect smoked fish, crab salad and Lyme Bay scallops, as well as the estate's own wines and cheeses. It's all delicious. Book ahead. Opens longer hours in summer.

Mangetout

There’s breakfast, and then there is breakfast from Mangetout. Take up a seat out the front to watch Totnes wander by, take over the small interior, or better yet, find a seat in shaded courtyard out back. Their smoothies are incredible, as is the smashed avocado on sourdough, with a poached egg on top and a side of bacon.

New Lion Brewery

Craft beer with community spirit: this microbrewery is locally owned and run by Totnes residents, with profits helping to support the town's economy. The three core beers are the classic Mane Event bitter, hoppy Pandit IPA and silky Totnes Stout. The shop is open every day, but the brewery bar is only open on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Hairy Barista

Aeropress, cold-brew, V60, flat white or just plain-old espresso, the aptly named Hairy Barista (aka Roe Yekutiel) will oblige – his little shop has become the town's go-to place for speciality coffee. There are cakes and pastries on offer too, but the space is a little cramped inside (and mind the step on the way in!).

The Totnes Brewing Co

The Totnes Brewing Co is situated at the bottom of Totnes Castle. As well as brewing their own craft beers right in the bar on a weekly basis they also stock a huge range of guest craft ales & ciders - local and international. If you love craft beer this is a must with "probably" the largest selection of beers and ciders in the area (usually over 100). The beer garden is a perfect spot from which to admire the Castle and the bar is warm and cosy at night - with an open fire on cold days. Food platters to go with beer are served during the holiday season and people are welcome to bring their own food when the kitchen is closed - they are dog friendly and have free wifi. Children welcome during the day and early evening.

Nkuku Cafe

From the company’s base in an uber-cool barn conversion, Nkuku sells its range of ethical, handmade homewares online. What many customers don’t realize as they’re buying its beautiful ceramic cereal bowls or wooden serving platters is that Nkuku also has a shop and café at its Devon HQ. A calming, earthy, stripped-back space, it’s the perfect setting for artisan, wood-roasted coffee from the nearby Curator Café, homemade cakes and brownies and deli boards laid with locally sourced cheeses and cured meats. Its sunny, south-facing courtyard is a great spot to while away an afternoon.

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Day Trip: Salcombe

Sun-soaked and salty, the pastel-hued sailing town of Salcombe makes a great day out. Here are some ideas for the best things to do on a day trip.

1. Amble around town

Salcombe is a gem of a town, with ancient narrow streets, pastel-coloured houses, boutique shops, art galleries, delicatessens and a bay bobbing with fishing boats. It’s a popular sailing destination, too, with ‘up-country’ yachtie visitors flock here in their hundreds in the summer. Island Street gives a taste of artisanal Salcombe – here you’ll find boat builders and art galleries, and even live lobster and crab on sale alongside buckets and spades, wetsuits, fishing tackle and chandlers. It’s also the home of local favourite Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream.

2. Bask on the beach

It’s hard to choose from the array of beauties on the south coast, but Mill Bay, a quick ferry ride across the water from Salcombe, tops our list for being seaweed-free and warmed by the sun all day. In the summer, it gets busy, so take an Ordnance Survey map to walk to quieter coves further up the coast, or hire a tender boat from town. Further west along the coast, at Bantham beach, wetsuits outnumber bikinis on south Devon’s only surf beach. Look out for stand-up paddle surfers, a quirky new take on the sport. Our other favourite beaches near Salcombe include Thurlestone Sands, South Sands and Soar Mill Cove. Read our guide to Devon’s best beaches for more information.

3. Walk the South West Coastal Path

Britain’s longest footpath traces the north and south coasts of Devon, offering easy access to wild and windswept cliffs, secluded sandy coves and tiny hamlets. The three-hour walk from Bolt Tail, near Hope Cove, to Bolt Head, near Salcombe, is our favourite, offering perfect beaches and jagged headlands. For a longer walk, start further up the coast at Bantham, and stop off at The Beach House (www.beachhousedevon.com) at South Milton Sands for lunch en route.  Start Point is another popular coastal walk, with a characterful pub, the Pig’s Nose, at one end (see below).

4. Drink in an old pirate’s island haunt

The Pilchard Inn is a creaky, weather-beaten smugglers inn dating from 1336 oozing with swashbuckling history: ask about the pirates’ escape tunnel. Getting there is all part of the fun. Perched on the tiny, tidal outcrop of Burgh Island, surrounded by sandy beaches and choppy seas, it’s cut off from the mainland twice a day so you’ll need to consult a tide table when planning your visit. When the seas have parted, it’s a short walk across the spit. When the waters start coming in, a high-sided ‘sea tractor’ ferries passengers. TQ7 4BG

5. Have dinner at art deco Burgh Island

This vintage art deco hotel is perched atop a privately owned island just off the south Devon coast, and is much as it was when Winston Churchill, Noel Coward and Agatha Christie beat a path to its door in its 1930s heyday. Non-residents can only dine there on Sundays. Booking essential. TQ7 4BG

6. Hang ten

Discovery Surf School offer lessons for beginners through to advanced surfers from their base in Bigbury-On-Sea all year round. A two-hour beginner lesson is £38. TQ7 4AR

7. Eat crispy squid at The Beach House

This weather-beaten clapboard shack overlooking the dramatic sea arch of Thurlestone is right on the beach, making it a perfect pit stop for a coastal walk. Crab cakes, crispy squid and bacon sandwiches are served up on rustic wooden tables in an amiable atmosphere. Check ahead for opening times. TQ7 3JY.

8. Shuck oysters 

Don’t be put off by the garish décor at this former oyster farm: the freshness of the oysters at The Oyster Shack is famous. Handpicked from the River Avon less than half a mile away, the meaty molluscs are served with a huge selection of mouth-watering sauces. TQ7 4BE.

9. Eat at The Millbrook Inn

Probably the only place in Devon where pigs’ trotter patties and escargots appear on the same menu, this cosy pub is old school Devon meets French auberge. On a babbling brook and close to a tranquil creek, it’s accessible by boat from Salcombe so, in summer, yachtie crowds come and go with the tides. There’s live gypsy Jazz every Sunday and fish barbecues in the summer.  TQ7 2RW

10. Drink at the Pigs Nose, East Prawl 

South west of Salcombe, on a beautiful stretch of coastal path, is this whitewashed smuggler’s inn. Run by a delightfully eccentric music manager, its played host to The Animals, The Yardbirds, the Boomtown Rats and Curiosity Killed the Cat,and still stages regular acts. The knitting corner is for customers who prefer a quieter pint. TQ7 2B.

11. Have lunch at the Winking Prawn

With a salty location on the North Sands, the Winking Prawn beach café and BBQ is the perfect stop for a sunny lunch, ice cream or the inevitable cream tea. Cracked crab, lobster and sea bream fillets are amongst the main course attractions.

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Best Experiences For Foodies

Devon is crammed with artisanal food and drink producers offering unique experiences and tours for keen foodies. Check out our selection of the best things for foodies to do in Devon - from wine tastings, to visiting local producers, farmer’s markets and street-food stalls.

Exeter Street Food

If you’re a food lover, you’ll know how important it is to choose the right destination for your next break. Luckily, if you’re thinking of staying to our luxury Devon cottage you won’t have anything to worry about. It’s the perfect place to indulge your inner gourmand, and if you’re stuck on where to start your gastronomic odyssey just check out recommendations on some of the best foodie experiences Devon has to offer.

Graze at a food festival or farmers’ market

Time your visit to Devon with one of the county’s famous food festivals, such as English Wine Week, Nourish Festival and Salcombe Crab Fest. Check out our Events page for details.

Hire a private picnic boat

For the ultimate romantic honeymoon or mini moon idea, hire the Picnic Boat, a private boat for two, which provides a bespoke menu, champagne and will take you to little bays for swimming or crabbing, then wait for you while you take a vineyard tour at Sharpham.

Go cheese and wine-tasting in a Devon vineyard, Totnes

While rich, creamy cheeses are an English speciality, wine is less often associated with the UK, yet at Sharpham both are crafted to an exceptionally high standard. Visit the estate to see how they are made and take the guided Vine to Wine tour to learn about what makes these English wines – regarded to be among the best in Britain – different to their foreign counterparts. Tasting sessions then offer the chance for you to sample the wine and delicious, full-flavoured cheeses for yourself. Sign up for the full Sharpham Experience tour and you’ll enjoy a great insight into English winemaking, as well a picturesque river walk and a boozy lunch.

Sample street food produce at Exeter Street Food market

The street food craze has well and truly hit the UK and the university town of Exeter has embraced this trend for speedy yet wholesome food. Exeter Street Food takes over the town centre every weekend. Choose between tapas, classic American dishes and even Egyptian food among many others tasty options. You can watch it all get cooked in front of you, before eating it on the go or resting in one of the pop-up seating areas. Best of all, these modestly priced quick yet quality meals won’t put any strain on the holiday budget.

Harrie Kivell, private chef at Moorland View Cottage

Hire a private chef

A holiday at our luxury holiday cottage in Devon comes with the luxurious option of hiring a private chef to make you a gourmet three-course meal. Our chef, Harrie, will shop, prepare and serve you gourmet cuisine in the comfort of the cottage and she’ll even wash up afterwards.

Make your own sloe gin or cider, Bovey Castle

Nestled in a sheltered corner of the beautiful gardens of Bovey Castle, lies along barn lit only by candle light. Cider and sloe gin-making lessons start with pressing the apples in the traditional way, and guests are given the opportunity to try the finished products. A unique way to spend time with new acquaintances, family and friends in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Take home inspiration and the knowledge to bottle an essence of summertime country walks.

Take a bread-making course, Kingswear

At this well-established, family-run cookery school in Kingswear, you can learn to make all manner of things in a wood-fired oven. If you’ve managed to get hold of one of these hefty items at home the school’s owners, David and Holly Jones, will be delighted to pass on their wood-firing expertise. From pizzas and crusty breads to more surprising dishes – scallops, roast vegetables and even desserts – Manna from Devon offers a great introduction to this type of cooking. Choose from classes at the couple’s Victorian home or, for a true kitchen garden experience, join them in the beautiful setting of Deer Park Country House Hotel, near Honiton, and then stay overnight in your own private tree house.

Shops for a picnic at Dartington

On a warm and sunny day, choose one of the region’s fabulously well-stocked delis and gather a true Devonshire picnic to enjoy in the surrounding countryside. Don’t know where to start? Try the Shops at Dartington and choose from the likes of Portlebay Popcorn (the perfect balance between sweet and savoury, it’s made from butterfly corn grown in the foothills of the Pyrenees but popped locally), Salcombe Dairy’s indulgent ice cream (sophisticated stem ginger is great for grown ups, rich and velvety chocolate sorbet is a satisfying chocolate hit for dairy avoiders and honeycomb a sweet, chewy and crunchy treat for everyone) and Luscombe Drinks’ superb organic ginger beers, fruit juices and cider.

Devonshire cream tea

Indulge in a traditional Devonshire cream tea

No visit to Devon is complete without a traditional cream tea. Check out our favourite cream teas here.

Magdalen Road, Exeter

Magdalen Road is Exeter's foodie enclave. Along one short stretch of tarmac, you will find a fishmonger (remember them?), wine shop, the butchery outlet for award-winning Devon farm Piper's, the old school Village Bakery, as well as Bon Goût (45 Magdalen Road, 01392 435521, bongoutdeli.co.uk) and Belgreen (25 Magdalen Road, 01392 271190, belgreen.co.uk), a couple of interesting budget eating options. The former deals in sandwiches, loaded pizza slices, cakes, homemade pies, pasties and novel chorizo or Devon scrumpy scotch eggs. Meanwhile, the brand new Belgreen textile shop and cafe delivers such slick-sounding mains as Exmouth mussel and crab linguine or confit duck, Toulouse sausage and flageolet beans, at around £9 a plate.

Make your own gin, Plymouth

Take home a unique souvenir from your time in Devon in the form of your very own handcrafted bottle of gin. Tours of Plymouth’s distillery unveil the processes behind distilling and flavouring one of Britain’s favourite spirits. Book the Master Distiller’s tour to have a go at blending your own recipe, which you can then take back to enjoy later at our luxury Devon holiday home. Go for the Gin Connoisseur tour for a special tasting, during which the distillery’s resident gin experts talk you through the different styles of gin that they make.

Take a cookery class

Housed in one of Ashburton’s many grand merchant's houses, Ashburton Cookery School runs short cookery classes in fish and seafood, bread, and "gastro pub" style food. One of the founders has been promoting organic food since the 1980s.

Eat crispy squid by the sea

The Beach House is a beachfront clapboard shack sitting right on the beach and the South West Coastal path, making it a perfect pit stop for a hike. Dining is on rustic communal wooden tables, or outside on the terrace overlooking Thurlestone Sands.

Dine on a river, Exmouth

Our favourite alternative-eats venue for a sunny day is a floating shed-cum-pontoon, moored off Exmouth, and reached by water taxi. Serving seafood dropped off by passing fishing boats, the sea-to-plate interval at the River Exe Cafe can be as little as five minutes.

Have lunch on a chilli farm

On a 10-acre farm outside Totnes 10,000 chilli plants a year are grown in the South Devon sunshine. Visit and you can bask in the tropical heat of the Show Tunnel, lined with stunning bursts of colour from 200 varieties of chilli plants in every shape and size, see seedlings being propagated in the nursery or buy some plants to take home and grow on your windowsill – choose from Padron peppers, ancho poblanos, habaneros and many more. End your visit to the Chilli Farm at the on-site café with a savoury cream tea (fresh, fluffy scones, cream cheese and homemade chilli jam) or a chilli-laced drinking chocolate. The farm shop also sells chilli sauces, chilli chocolates and freshly-picked chillies.

River Exe Cafe

Stock up at a zero-waste shop, Totnes

The Eckersley’s shop, Earth Food Love, which came to life in March 2017, claims to be the first zero-waste shop in the country. Inside, almost every inch of the modestly sized shop is crammed with a dispenser of some sort, for everything from pulses, grains and dried fruit to detergents and bamboo toothbrushes – all free of plastic and pesticides. You’d be forgiven for thinking they had little space left, but they’re planning more shelves and constantly bringing in new stock – as long as the supplying company is ethical, of course. They’re ahead of the game on the anti-plastic revolution, but since the government recently put the issue of plastic pollution at the heart of its 25-year plan, it’s become front-page news with an increasing amount of well-deserved attention. They've become the pin-ups for others doing the same, from the Bulk Market in east London to other people around the country wanting to follow suit. The idea is you take your own container – whether it’s a Tupperware, tin can or reusable bag (they’ve even had someone using pillowcases), fill up with food, weigh and pay. There’s not a plastic bag in sight, nor anything wrapped in the shiny stuff. For them, it’s not about making a profit; it’s about consuming food and everyday products in a way that doesn’t cost the earth. It has been an undeniable success with locals and they’ve got plenty of loyal customers, as well as tourists wanting to see what’s happening.

Have an artichoke-themed lunch

In the most unlikely of places, tucked away on an industrial estate in Kingsbridge, Jane Baxter and Samantha Miller host lunches and suppers amid the pared-back surroundings of their kitchen (the pair, who met at the nearby Riverford Kitchen, also run a catering business, supplying the food for corporate and private clients across the county). Dinner or lunch at the Wild Artichoke HQ is not to be missed, however. Taking place at large wooden tables, they’re all about sharing Jane’s hearty, Southern Italian-influenced dishes – think crisp truffle arancini, deep-fried Brussels sprouts, cured salmon with beetroot, grilled leg of lamb with salsa verde, creamed parsnip, potato and fennel gratin, and spring greens with parmesan. Make sure you try a bit of everything, especially when it comes to desserts: panettone bread and butter pudding, perhaps, alongside rhubarb and strawberry crumble and pavlova with pears and chocolate.

Make your own gin by the sea, Salcombe

Born out of a love of gin and inspired by the sea, co-founders Angus and Howard created Salcombe Distilling Co, a beautiful waterside distillery and bar overlooking the estuary in the stunning coastal town of Salcombe, South Devon. Visitors can enjoy the ultimate ‘Salcombe & Tonic’ overlooking the estuary or watch the distillers handcraft the multi-award winning gin ‘Start Point’ which is an exceptionally smooth ‘London Dry Gin’ handcrafted on ‘Provident’, their striking 450l copper pot still which stands proud behind glass doors within the distillery for all to view. There is a fabulous seasonal cocktail menu and they also serve a wonderful selection of wines, beers, soft drinks and coffee alongside their gin. The distillery and bar is open 7 days a week and visitors are welcome to sample Salcombe Gin, find out more about how it is made, watch the distillers at work or simply relax in the bar with a drink. There is also a shop giving you an opportunity to take a little bit of Salcombe home with you. Next door to the distillery is their award-winning Gin School which runs Gin School lessons on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The experience is approx. 3 hours and guests learn about distillation, develop their own gin recipe before taking charge of a mini copper pot still to create their very own 70cl bottle of gin whilst enjoying a couple of ‘Salcombe & Tonics’ along the way. Gin School lessons start from £100 and booking is essential.

Brixham Fish Market

Tour Brixham Fish Market

For early risers only, tours of Brixham’s fish market start at 6am start. The market sees over 40 different species of fish landed annually with a turnover of around £40million. This is a chance to see behind the scenes and the hustle and bustle of the world famous Brixham Fish Market, culminating in a delicious fish breakfast at Rockfish.

Eat in a field kitchen

Food doesn’t get fresher or more local than at Riverford Field Kitchen, the organic farm that is home to the famous veg box scheme. Enormous bowls of hearty homespun fayre is served up on long tables in a wonderfully convivial atmosphere.

Glimpse inside one of the UK’s oldest working cider presses

Ron produces up to 1500 gallons of cider using one of the UK's oldest working cider presses, in a barn that dates back to Saxon times. The barns are crammed with antique cider-making tools and equipment. Ron has even found spearheads and Stone Age scrapers in the barn’s dirt floor, and just behind where this photograph was taken are the remains of a horse-powered mill. During his tour, Ron will show you around these characterful historic buildings and explain how cider is produced using his traditional press, pictured above. There will be a chance to look around the orchards, where old and rare apple varieties still grow, including the wonderfully-titled Fair Maids of Devon, Pigs’ Snout and Slack-ma-Girdle. You'll also have a chance to taste Ron's cider. Beware, it's strong! 

Take a guided foodie tour

Unique Devon Tours has put together a fabulous day out just for foodies, which includes visits to a variety of local producers and food and drink-related experiences. Bespoke options include a visit to Sharpham Vineyard, Salcombe Gin and South Devon Chilli Farm.

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Fine Dining With Our Private Chef

LUXURY DEVON HOLIDAY COTTAGE WITH PRIVATE CHEF

Book a bespoke private dining experience during your luxury cottage holiday in Devon, with our private chef Harrie Kivell.

We’re all about luxury here at Moorland View Cottage, and what better way to push the boat out than with a bespoke dining experience with a private chef?

Harrie Kivell is a highly regarded fine-dining chef who will prepare you a gourmet three-course meal in the cottage’s kitchen, while you sit back and relax.

Harrie Kivell

Hiring our private chef is the perfect option if you’re celebrating a special occasion, or just fancy a little well-deserved luxury on your Devon cottage holiday.

Harrie provides for all dietary requirements, including gluten- and dairy-free.

Prices for a three-course meal start from £100 per person.

How it works

Harrie will create bespoke menus specifically tailored to your personal taste, requirements and budget. She’ll require a 50% deposit once a menu has been decided on. On the day she’ll arrive at an agreed time; cook, serve and clear up your meal and of course leave the kitchen spotless! What could be better?

Ready to book?

Harrie is in hot demand, so it’s best to book your private dining experience least three weeks prior to your arrival. Contact her at Boo to A Goose (07791 960116)

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Photos by Harrie Kivell

SAMPLE MENU

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Guide: Luxury Cottage Breaks in Devon

Planning a luxury cottage break in Devon? Our comprehensive guide highlights the most luxurious things to do, from where to stay, eat and visit.

Wall-to-wall luxury at Moorland View Cottage

1. Stay in an ultra-luxurious thatched cottage

Offering all the luxury of a boutique hotel, but with the space and privacy of your own home, Moorland View Cottage makes the perfect location for a luxury cottage break. Set in an idyllic thatched village in the hills of Dartmoor National Park, the cottage has a luxurious vintage tub big enough for two, log fire and fabulous local walks.

2. Have a five-star spa treatment

Guests at Moorland View have complimentary membership of five-star spa and country club, with up to 25% off treatments, food and drink. The most luxurious spa treatment is an hour-and-a-half long aromatherapy massage. Bliss.

Fine dining at Gidleigh Park

The height of luxury: a private champagne flight over Dartmoor

3. Take a private hot-air balloon flight

Another idea for a luxury break in Devon is to take a hot air balloon flight at dawn or dusk over epic Dartmoor scenery. Local company Aerosauraus runs private champagne flights across Dartmoor or along Devon’s south coast. > More romantic things to in Devon

4. Hire a private chef

There’s nothing more luxurious than a private chef cooking for you in the comfort of a boutique holiday cottage. At Moorland View, our fantastic private chef does everything for you, from laying the table, to washing up at the end. All you have to do is choose your menu.

5. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park is a grand Tudor-style country manor hotel, set in 107 acres of Dartmoor woodland outside Chagford. Creative menus are delivered with pin sharp accuracy, and there’s a 50-page wine list to choose from. Well worth the £100+ price tag. Work up an appetite beforehand with a walk around their romantic grounds. 

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Day Trip: Exeter

A fine Norman cathedral, pretty Georgian streets, a fabulous street food market and the West Country’s best farm shop makes Exeter an interesting day trip. Here’s our pick of the best things to do in and around Exeter.

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral

Magnificent in warm, honey-coloured stone, Exeter's cathedral is one of Devon’s most impressive ecclesiastical sights. Dating largely from the 12th and 13th centuries, the west front is framed by extraordinary medieval statuary, while inside the ceiling soars upwards to the longest span of unbroken Gothic vaulting in the world, dotted with ornate ceiling bosses in gilt and vibrant colours.

RAMM

A fixture on the city's cultural scene since Victorian times, this hulking red-brick museum recently received a £24 million revamp. It's a treasure trove of rambling rooms, filled with glass cases of curiosities and archaeological finds – from samurai armour, African masks and Egyptian mummies in the World Cultures galleries to a truly amazing echinoderm collection of starfish and sea urchins amassed by the inveterate Victorian collector Walter Percy Sladen. Exeter's own history also figures strongly.

Underground Passages

Prepare to crouch down, don a hard hat and possibly get spooked in what is the only publicly accessible system of its kind in England. These medieval vaulted passages were built to house pipes bringing fresh water to the city. Guides lead you on a scramble through the network, relating tales of ghosts, escape routes and cholera. The last tour is an hour before closing; they're popular – book ahead.

Exeter Quay

On fine sunny days the people of Exeter head to the quay. Cobbled paths lead between former warehouses that have been converted into antique shops, quirky stores, craft workshops, restaurants and pubs (popular spots for al fresco drinks and people-watching).

Take a guided tour

Our Guided Tours page has details on Exeter city tours.

Real Food Store

Boxes and bags full of field-fresh veg, racks of fragrant bread, ranks of local cheeses and piles of cured meat and fish. Some 70% of the goods in this community-run cafe-cum-store are from Devon, and the other 30% is from the wider southwest.

Visit Topsham

The estuary-side town of Topsham is a delight: its narrow lanes wind towards the harbour, which is ringed with restaurants, pubs and antique shops. Other attractions include an appealing run of 18th-century Dutch-style gabled houses, a long riverside strand and a huge antiques market on the quayside.

Drink in a traditional ale house

One of England’s last traditional ale houses, little has changed at The Bridge Inn for centuries: faded bunting from George V’s 1911 coronation still hangs in the tiny bar. This ‘museum-with-beer’ is a must for ale connoisseurs.  

Exploding Bakery

Excellent news: one of Exeter's hippest little bakeries has now added half-a-dozen tables, meaning there's even more room to sample superb flat whites, macchiato and inventive cakes – the lemon, polenta and pistachio is a hit.

Stock up at a farm shop

Described as being ‘Selfridges’ food hall in the middle of a farm’, Darts Farm has done so much to promote regional produce it's something of a legend in the south-west. Come here for your shop, a three-course meal or just a takeaway. A favourite is the Fish Shed, a restaurant, fishmonger and take-out place rolled into one: the fish will have been caught that day.

See how the other half live

One of the oldest family seats in Devon, Powderham Castle, set in its own deer park, belongs to the Earl of Devon. Added to and altered repeatedly over its six hundred year history, tours take in the medieval core, neo-classical areas and Victorian kitchen. 

Have lunch at the River Exe café

Our favourite alternative-eats venue, at least on a sunny day, is the River Exe Café a floating shed-cum-pontoon moored off Exmouth. Serving seafood dropped off by passing fishing boats, the sea-to-plate interval can be as little as five minutes. Get there on the new Topsham to Exmouth cycle path, then catch a water taxi to the café. Closed winter. Booking essential. 

Go grazing on Magdalen Road

Magdalen Road is Exeter's foodie enclave. Along one short stretch of tarmac, you will find a fishmonger (remember them?), wine shop, the butchery outlet for award-winning Devon farm Piper's, the old school Village Bakery, as well as Bon Goût (45 Magdalen Road, 01392 435521, bongoutdeli.co.uk) and Belgreen (25 Magdalen Road, 01392 271190, belgreen.co.uk), a couple of interesting budget eating options.

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Devon's Best Fine Dining Restaurants

Devon is a foodie’s paradise, with dozens of fabulous fine dining restaurants. We choose our favourites.

Bovey Castle, North Bovey

The silver-service Great Western restaurant at Bovey Castle is dazzlingly glamorous – think glittery flock wallpaper, chandeliers and swirly carpets. The food wows too: estate venison, seat trout, duck – all come beautifully presented, with well thought-out accompaniments. 

Gidleigh Park, Chagford

With its Michelin standard restaurant, this imposing Tudor style house, overlooking 107 acres of private woodlands, has impeccable culinary credentials. Refined and formal, Gidleigh Park offers old-school charm and tip-top service. Gidleigh’s kitchen has been unsettled since the 2015 departure of long-standing head chef Michael Caines who, in his 21 years of service, won the restaurant two Michelin stars. Since then two chefs have come and gone, taking with them Gidleigh’s coveted Michelin stars, but the food is still excellent - a traditional, pared-down British menu that focuses on seasonal, locally sourced produce. Think Cornish turbot served with leeks, purple spouting broccoli and caviar hollandaise, and beef fillet with potato terrine and cauliflower purée. There’s a whopping wine list, with more than 9,000 choices which the charismatic sommelier has an encyclopaedic knowledge of.

The Horse, Moretonhampstead

Heralded as a ‘genuine slice of foodie heaven’ by the Michelin guide, the Horse is one of our best local restaurants. Brixham crab, lobster, scallops and wild Cornish sea bass are favourites, as is Moreton lamb, Devon Ruby beef and locally reared rare breed pork. The pizzas are the best we’ve ever tasted. and their summer brunches, served from 10am in the summer, are to die for, with classics such as Eggs Florentine, and Churros, Mediterrean Frittatas. It’s all served up in a lovely contemporary setting, and there’s a pretty walled courtyard for dining al fresco on long summer evenings. 

The Seahorse, Dartmouth

A smart restaurant in a lovely spot on the embankment; sit outside looking over the estuary or inside beside the glass-walled kitchen. Seafood-orientated menus at The Seahorse have a Mediterranean bias, with Josper-grilled whole fish and fresh pastas the favourites. Start with a cocktail in the lovely Joe's Bar.

Mason’s Arms, Knowstone

The gridlock outside this remote 13th-century thatched pub in the foothills of Exmoor speaks volumes for the Michelin-starred pub food served within. Sloping floors and precariously low doorways in the Mason’s cosy restaurant – which seats just 30 – mean pillows have to be strapped to door-frames to protect patrons’ heads. 

The Elephant, Torquay

The bucket-and-spade town of Torquay seems an unlikely setting for a Michelin-starred restaurant. The Room, on the first floor, is decked with framed menus from the travels of Simon Hulstone, the chef, and has the best view in town. Expect novelty desserts, such as pop rock candy, which pops and fizzes in your mouth. Downstairs, the non-starred brasserie offers more casual dining.

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My Devon: A Tour Guide's Top Spots

My Devon: A Tour Guide’s Favourite Destinations

Devon tour guide, Alex Graeme, knows more about the county than most. Here, he reveals his top 10 favourite Devon destinations.

Brixham

1. Whiteworks, near Princetown

Good for isolation and history.

For some people, Dartmoor is all about open space, and this is one spot that has it in abundance – and it’s easily accessible too!  Following Tor Royal Lane out of Princetown, the road peters out after 3.5 miles, becoming a track for hikers who wish to head out across the open moor.  Shortly before one gets to the end of the road, you’ll come over the brow of the hill, and see before you Fox Tor Mire, which became Grimpen Mire in Conan Doyle’s aforementioned Baskervilles story.  Park in one of the small car parks, and take one of the trails for a peaceful walk around this great bowl of marshland, or walk to the end of the road to visit the remains of Whiteworks, a former tin mining community.  It’s very tranquil here nowadays, but once would have been busy with the noise of working men, striving to make a living in this isolated and sometimes very harsh environment.

Tour guide’s travel tip: to get a further insight into what life was like in this harsh area of Dartmoor, perhaps visit Dartmoor Prison Museum after you’ve been to Whiteworks, and learn about the history of this intriguing prison that’s over 200 years old and still open today.

Holy Trinity Church

2. Holy Trinity Church, Buckfastleigh

Good for literary culture, myths and legends.

In my line of work I visit a great many churches in Devon, especially when on family history tours with guests who are following in their ancestors’ footsteps.  However, Holy Trinity Church is, to me, very special, unique as it is from the other 617 churches in Devon.  It has suffered great misfortune over its 800 years, and it now stands as a gutted shell of a ruin, on top of a hill, ready to tell its tales of which it has many.  The main story is about one particular man that’s buried here, this man being the one who inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to create his Sherlock Holmes masterpiece, The Hound of the Baskervilles!  Well worth a visit on your own, or if you want to hear more about the Baskervilles story, you could take part in our Hound of the Baskervilles Tour (see here).

Tour guide’s travel tip: you’re in the place that inspired one of detective fiction’s most famous stories, so make sure that you bring a copy of The Hound of the Baskervilles with you and read it whilst staying on Dartmoor.

Antsey’s Cove (photo: Alex Graeme)

3. Anstey’s Cove, Torquay

Good for peace and beauty

It’s quite a steep walk down to this tucked away cove in Torquay (and no less steep on the way back up!), but on a still, sunny morning it can feel like one’s been transferred to a gorgeous Mediterranean cove.  The views from here are quite lovely, looking across the bay to the shapely Long Quarry, with its tooth like prominence, and very rarely does it get overly busy here. It’s a great place to sit and look, something that most of us don’t do enough of, me included!  There’s also a café to enhance one’s relaxation.

Tour guide’s travel tip: perhaps combine a visit to Anstey’s Cove with a trip to nearby Kents Cavern, the UK’s most important cave system.  This is the only place in the World where evidence of three different species of humankind has been found!

The view from Hameldown Tor (photo: Alex Graeme)

4. Grimspound and Hameldown, Dartmoor

Good views, ancient history and walking

Having been a tour guide for nearly six years, there are many places that I visit on a regular basis. That’s not to say that I don’t love going to them though, and one place that I feel a special sense of calm at is Grimspound, the Bronze Age settlement on Dartmoor.  Even on the busiest Dartmoor days I invariably find it relatively quiet, and often it’s just my guests and I that are there, alone, apart from perhaps some Dartmoor Ponies or sheep!  My guests find it quite breath-taking to be here, in this place steeped in history and offering such spectacular views.  For the fitter ones amongst them, we sometimes hike up the steep hill to Hameldown, the ridge that runs above Grimspound in the direction of Widecombe.  The views from here are on another scale, and well worth the extra effort.

Tour guide’s travel tip: to truly appreciate the multi-layered history of this area, try to get hold of one of the small guidebooks about Grimspound - they can be purchased from one of the National Park visitor centre (at Haytor, Princetown and Postbridge).

5. The Denbury Triangle

Good for walking through Devon lanes and country pubs

Not far from Newton Abbot is an area sometimes known as the Denbury Triangle, although maybe it could also be called the Ipplepen Triangle or the Broadhempston Triangle!  If one draws a triangle, using Newton Abbot, Totnes and Buckfastleigh as the three corner points, the area within is a wonderful expanse of beautiful rolling green fields, woodland, lanes and small communities. The opportunities for getting wonderfully lost in this area are great, whether in a car, on a bicycle, or on foot. You’ll never get completely lost as a pub will eventually rear up before you, whether in Landscove, Torbryan or Denbury, and one thing’s for sure, you won’t be sharing the lanes or footpaths with too many other people!

Tour guide’s travel tip: look online for some walks in this area, as there are plenty of good trails to follow, including many public footpaths.

Ashburton

6. Ashburton

Good for antiques, independent shops and cafes

I’ve become a very big fan of this old market town in the last five years, and bring a lot of my guests to see it.  Ashburton has given itself a tremendous facelift in the last 20 to 30 years, and now ranks as one of the nicest towns in the whole of Devon.  The independent shops take great pride in providing the best for their customers, whether selling clothes, comics, freshly baked bread, chocolate or fresh fish.  Ashburton has a great antique scene, something that my international guests are often fascinated by, and they also love the great café culture that has developed here, with Taylors Tea Room being a favourite thanks to its quintessential English charm, fabulous array of freshly baked cakes, and very tasty Devonshire cream teas!

Tour guide’s travel tip: Sundays and Mondays are not the best days to visit Ashburton, since some of the independent shops are closed, particularly on Mondays.

7.  Berry Head

Good for sea views and nature appreciation

I rediscovered Berry Head about two years ago, having not been for many years, and now I can’t get enough of it!  It has history right in front of you, with its two Napoleonic forts guarding Torbay. It has beautiful sea views, and is a great place from which to observe nature, whether it’s Dolphins or Porpoises in the waters below, or Guillemots or Peregrine Falcons in the skies above. There’s also the fabulous Guard House Café where they serve up original dishes and tasty drinks.  One can drive straight to Berry Head, but a favourite walk of mine is to park at Freshwater Quarry car park in Brixham, follow the footpath around the picturesque town harbour, and keep hugging the coastline (partly by road and partly by footpath) up to Berry Head.  It’s a walk, there and back, of about two hours, but add some time for pausing at Berry Head and for a stop at the café.

Tour guide’s travel tip: taking your binoculars with you will give you a distinct advantage when trying to spot the wildlife at Berry Head.

8. Dartington Hall

Good for gardens, walking and shopping.

I’ve fallen for Dartington Hall for several reasons. The grounds are lovely, from the beautifully kept gardens, to the endless network of different paths one can follow around this huge estate.  It is a very active place, with its Barn Cinema providing constant and varied entertainment.  There are events going on all the time, celebrating the arts, literature and education.  They have concerts, utilising their magnificent Great Hall, and there are three great places to eat at, including The Green Table Café where, amongst other things, the salted caramel brownies are just incredible!

Tour guide’s travel tip: I might have talked about Totnes here, but felt the need to write about somewhere a little less obvious.  Totnes is nearby to Dartington Hall, so the two can be combined together in a lovely day visit, perhaps along with a visit to the Shops at Dartington.

9. Haytor (well, behind it actually…)

Good for going beyond the crowds and beautiful scenery.

Haytor cannot be described as any kind of secret place – it stands proudly at the edge of Dartmoor, visible from many miles away, luring people to visit it which they do in vast numbers.  It’s wonderful there early in the morning or late in the evening, but otherwise I tend to find quieter alternatives to visit with my guests.  However, there is a lovely walk that includes this great tor, but quickly leads you away from the madding crowd.  It incorporates the quarries behind the tor, part of the old granite tramway, Becka Brook and Greator Rocks (and can be extended to include Hound Tor), and then circles back around, up to Smallacombe Rocks before returning via Haytor to where you started.  We’ve done this walk many times, and rarely see more than a handful of people after passing Haytor.

Tour guide’s travel tip: please don’t be tempted to feed the Dartmoor Ponies here, or anywhere else on the moors.  It encourages them to come closer to the road, making it more likely that an accident will happen.

Hope Cove

10. Hope Cove

Good for beaches and coastal walking.

I discovered Hope Cove for the first time just a few years ago when my Dad had a big birthday celebration, and as a family we spent a weekend there.  It instantly captured my heart, being in such a pretty and cosy location, and offering such great opportunities for coastal path walking. I remember swimming and kayaking from the two sandy beaches there, and hiking around the coast to Bolt Tail Head, where the views are quite spectacular.  Needless to say, I’ve returned many times since then, and generally it has been peaceful and uncrowded.  It’s certainly well tucked away, way down in the south of Devon!

Tour guide’s travel tip: bring your towel and bathing costume – you may well find the temptation of a swim too much to say no to, just like I did!

Unique Devon Tours

To find out more about more about Alex’s guided tours, please visit his website www.uniquedevontours.com, or email info@uniquedevontours.co.uk and/or telephone 01803 812556 or 07585 928070.

Map of Devon's Best Attractions

Map of Devon’s Best Attractions and Places to Visit

Planning a holiday in Devon? Our handy map gives an at-a-glance view of Devon’s best places to visit.

Zoom in and out using the + and - buttons, and click on the red arrows for more information.

Here are some of our favourite things to do in our local area. Please have a look at our guide in the leather folder in the living room for more ideas.

Dartmoor's Best Photo Locations

Leather Tor

The 10 Best Dartmoor Locations For Epic Landscape Photos

Dartmoor landscape photographer and social media sensation Will Lamerton is an expert on Dartmoor’s most Instagrammable destinations. Here, he reveals his favourite places on Dartmoor to take photographs.

Dartmoor - it has a fantastic diversity of landscapes, wildlife and rich history. With jagged rocky tors, forests, lakes and big views, this renowned corner of the UK has something to offer for everyone. With plenty of amazing hidden gems to choose from, read on to see my top 10 favourite landscapes on Dartmoor!

1. Black Tor

Black Tor

This granite outcrop, situated impressively on the edge of the West Okemont Valley is one of Dartmoor's best-kept gems. A visit to Black Tor at sunset is the most impressive time to make the hike, with glorious basking views of the valley lit up by the golden light - look out for Sourton Tor to the North, the slope of Yes Tor to the East and Branscombe Loaf to the West, an outcrop shrouded in stories of the Devil dating back to the Middle Ages.

The hike to Black Tor is fairly laid back - around 1.5 miles. Parking at the nearby Meldon Reservoir is your best bet and taking the well-marked footpath up Longstone Hill. After reaching the top of here, you'll be able to see two of the three granite outcrops that make up Black Tor with a rough trail leading to them. Make sure to wear suitable footwear as although there is a path, it can be boggy.

After your walk, if you get peckish, the small Dartmoor town of Okehampton is a short 5-minute drive from Meldon Reservoir with great options for refreshment.

2. Black-a-Tor Copse

Black-a-Tor Copse

Whilst you're visiting Black Tor, you may notice to the West, a small woodland in the valley below Corn Ridge with a river running through it. This place is called Black-a-Tor Copse, an incredible example of a high altitude Oak woodland. Like its famous cousin, Wistman's Wood, also situated on Dartmoor, Black-a-Tor Copse is made up of the same amazing twisted Oaks but this time, without the tourists. With a spread of Granite boulders lining the floor and rare lichens draping from the trees - this place is a pure fairytale.

Visiting any time of the year is special, mid-April to August you'll see moorland birds but it's most magical to visit in the morning mist, the trees standing tall and eerie in the still air. Just be sure you know how to navigate if you go there in those conditions.

Sourton Tors

3. Sourton Tors

Located right on the Northern border of Dartmoor, dramatically elevated above anything for miles, Sourton Tors really does have some views to show off. I love this place for how easy it is to get to, giving an amazing taste of what the national park is like but without having to yomp miles off of the beaten track. Pulling off of the A30, the main car park is to the left over a cattle grid a further 2-minute drive on the road towards Tavistock. From here, visitors will follow a short 30-minute trail to the top.

From the peak, you'll have fantastic panoramic views into North Devon and some of Dartmoor's highest and most spectacular tors to the South, including Black Tor!

The location itself is also of great interest, as you ascend the tor from the car park, you may notice some long, tall, grassy mounds that appear to be man-made. What you're looking at is the remains of 'Sourton Hill Ice Factory', a patch of land constructed in the late 1800s for the purpose of collecting naturally produced ice to help food storage in the local area. Also, keep an eye out for Dartmoor ponies on the ascent, these gentle creatures love grazing on the hillside and due to the location, are quite friendly around humans - just don't feed them!

Ger Tor

4. Ger Tor

Situated as a sharp peak on the edge of the fantastic Tavy Cleave Valley, Ger tor is a location for the more experienced hikers. There is no obvious path, so waterproofs and walking boots are advised as the journey can be boggy and tough terrain depending on the time of year. Don't let this put you off though, as long as you're prepared, the views from Ger Tor are out of this world. From the top, you can see right into the valley with a distinct feeling of remoteness as you look around. For me, Ger Tor is the visual definition of Dartmoor.

Getting there, despite the lack of trail, isn't too hard. There are multiple ways to the top, but the easiest would be starting in the Lanehead, a remote car park near Nattor Farm. From here, Ger Tor is around a 1km off-road hike crossing Mine Leat via a footbridge at the base of your first stop, Nat Tor - a place to pause and admire the view before moving on. To reach your destination continue following the contour of the ridgeline along Nattor Down with Ger Tor being next peak you'll come to.

Once you've finished your walk, the Fox and Hounds Pub not too far a drive from the car park is a great walkers establishment for good, reasonably priced food. There's even a campsite attached giving you a great place to stay if you want to explore some of the other surrounding moorlands.

Venford Falls

5. Venford Falls

The elusive Venford Falls, this place is somewhat of a local secret. Not marked on maps and without any paths going to it, this beautiful twin waterfall is well hidden. I'm not going to be the one to spill the mystery location of Venford Falls, but starting near the waterworks of Venford Reservoir is a good place to begin your search. These cascades are well worth finding, but a pair of walking boots and being prepared for moderately sharp inclines is necessary. The best time to visit would be in the Spring and Summer when the surrounding woodland is in full bloom and colours.

The moorland is fairly baron around here, but the fantastic wooded Dart Valley is very close and the town of Ashburton a short 15-minute journey by car which will have all of the amenities you need.

6. Leather Tor

Leather Tor

Sat a stone's throw from the beautiful Burrator reservoir, Leather Tor is a stunning and remote, yet easy to reach granite outcrop. If you follow a sat-nav, your car will be guided to a small car park right at the foot, this leaves the peak of Leather Tor only a 15-minute hike away. I love this place as there are so many gorgeous views around. 

From the top, look back towards where you parked your car and you'll see the glistening waters of Burrator reservoir, not far South, this looks fantastic in photos. Look to the West and there are some beautiful woodland areas immediately in the valley with some more classic Dartmoor tors in the distance and directly behind Leather Tor you'll find Sharpitor, another peak worth the short 1/2km walk to. Here you'll find lots of hut circles and ancient settlement areas back when Dartmoor was largely inhabited if history is your thing.

Leather Tor is great for families too, with the walk to the top a very short distance and Burrator, renowned for its cycle tracks, there's no better a place to go for some outdoor activity, nice views and plenty of spots for picnics.

7. Great Staple Tor

Great Staple Tor

This is one of Dartmoor's more 'poster' tors. Great Staple is situated 1km from the main road to Princetown from Tavistock and is well know for it's unique and instantly recognisable 'steeples' made up of layered granite. You might encounter some other visitors up there walk but the offroad journey without much of a path tends to keep visitors low. Don't let the lack of trail put you off though, this is a fairly easy place to get to with a steady incline to the chain of tors that flank the west side of the Walkham Valley with panoramic views from the top. This chain is an excellent place to explore on Sunday afternoon, with places such Roos Tor and Great Mis Tor easily reachable after you've finished photographing the steeples of Great Staple.

Carrying on with the theme of Sunday afternoon walks, you can finish your exploration of the Walkham Valley peaks by heading into Tavistock, a historic and often bustling market town for a well-earned bite to eat and only 10 minutes away from the car park at the beginning of the walk.

If towns aren't your thing, Princetown is a further 15 minutes down the road in the opposite direction to Tavistock and is well signposted. This remote village is well off of the main road and is steeped in history with old Tin Workings and Quarries just outside of the village, the famous prison and Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre here, you can also learn all about Dartmoor life through history.

Brat Tor

8. Brat Tor

An old favourite spot of mine. Brat Tor is an iconic hill on the A386 towards Tavistock coming from the North Moors. This outcrop is instantly recognisable thanks to the granite statue known as Widgery Cross at the very peak erected by William Widgery to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887. From the top, there are more panoramic views across the Eastern section of Dartmoor and towards Cornwall if you look off of the park. With Brat Tor standing abruptly higher than most of the terrain around, I highly recommend visiting at sunset as surrounding views light up golden and the air becomes more still - it really does give you an 'on top of the world' feeling.

If sunset isn't an option, setting off for an afternoon or day trip is beautiful too, this gives you time to explore and appreciate the surrounding places such as Hare Tor, Arms Tor, Doe Tor and as mentioned above, Ger Tor and the Tavy Cleave. All these places are within 1-hour walk or less to each to each other.

To get to Brat Tor is fairly easy, as you're driving down the A386 towards Tavistock, look for the Fox and Hounds pub at the side of the road, pull in here and you can park for free. Heading behind the pub you'll see a well-trodden gravel footpath that passes the campsite also at the pub and walks towards the moors - you can actually see Brat Tor from where you have parked.  This footpath leads directly to the peaks but doesn't stay gravel for long, so walking boots are still advised.

The only advisory for this place is aware Willsworthy Firing Range is very close to the tor and has many of the other surrounding tors stated above within its borders, so be aware if you want to explore them that they're not firing - you can find times online.

Brent Tor

9. Brent Tor Church

Officially known as the church of St Michael de Rupe, this fairy tale building is located 1100 feet on of Brent Tor. Founded in 1130, the church is fully working as one of the highest altitude places of worship in England and has been for almost 900 years.

This place is beautiful and worth a visit all year round, whether that be in basking sunset, winter frost or morning mist. Being just a short 10 minute walk from the car park, Brent Tor is a unique photo opportunity that is accessible to many, with masses of history behind it if that's what you love, big views and the ability to actually go inside this tiny church to explore for free, it's a must visit place on Dartmoor!

Nearby is the famous National Trust owned Lydford Gorge that has amazing walks and the White Lady Waterfall at its centre. The village of Lydford is also only a small drive from Brent Tor too which has a castle and a peaceful local pub opposite fittingly called 'The Castle Inn' which is a great place to stop for a quiet pint after a day exploring.

10. High Willhays

High Willhays

This place deserves a special mention at the end because it is the highest point on Dartmoor and the South of England below the Brecon Beacons making the statement, 'I was standing higher than anyone in the South of England' true for the most part! This, like Ger Tor, is a journey only advised if you're properly equipped as it is mostly off the beaten track and a steep climb.

You can get to High Willhays in multiple ways, however, to get the best out of this place I would highly recommend beginning on the Dartmoor Ringroad past Okehampton Army Camp. The walk is longer, around 4km as a round trip across rougher terrain, but if you're a keen adventurer and want to see some amazing views I highly recommend this route.

Passing the Army camp over a cattle grid, take the right road that's immediately after. Driving down here you'll see two tors that you're heading for, both peaks you'll be visiting on this route. As you drive, there are quite a few pull-ins that you're allowed to park in so stopping in one close to the tors is the perfect place to begin. From here, follow the chain of tors to your right, these will be West Mill Tor, Yes Tor and finally, High Willhays - all in that order and the next one visible from the previous. This is just a rough guide, so I advise you follow an OS map and ensure you check the weather before leaving!

Pick a clear day and you'll walking across Dartmoor's Highest Peaks with panoramic views across Devon and visiting High Willhays which the summit is high enough to be classed as a mountain!

Will Lamerton

Will Lamerton is a full-time landscape and lifestyle photographer based in Dartmoor National Park, Devon. With over 30,000 followers on Instagram, he's been sharing his imagery for over three years.

Working with brands internationally, Will has explored Dartmoor inside out and can offer first-hand knowledge and experience photographing this extraordinary corner of the UK.

Follow Will on Instagram: http://instagram.com/willlamerton (@willlamerton)

DARTMOOR COTTAGES

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• Summer
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• Swimming
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  • Mar 11, 2019 Divine Devon Towns and Villages
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  • Feb 3, 2019 20 Things to Do on Dartmoor This Winter

12 Dartmoor Artisans To Visit

THE DARTMOOR ARTISAN TRAIL - WHO TO VISIT

The Dartmoor Artisan Trail gives visitors a glimpse behind the workshop walls of Dartmoor’s finest craftspeople. Founder Suzy Bennett suggests who to visit during a stay at Moorland View, a holiday cottage that’s on the trail. Photos by Suzy Bennett.

Katherine Miles / Willow Weaver / Chagford

Famed throughout the South West for her life-sized willow animal sculptures, Katherine's work is displayed in stately homes, private gardens and as interior design pieces. Katherine's studio is a sight in itself. Nestled in an arboretum in Chagford's Stone Lane Gardens, it's crammed with sculptures of beasts, including highland cows, pigs, horses, deer, donkeys, sheep, goats, hares, owls, llamas, foxes, swans and birds of prey. Katherine welcomes visitors and offers short weaving courses.

Greg Abel / Blacksmith / Moretonhampstead

One of just a handful of blacksmiths left on Dartmoor, Greg Abel works in a 150-year-old stone forge, where vintage farm and farriers’ tools, made by previous smithies, still hang from the rafters. Greg uses traditional coal in the original hearth rather than gas, which is now more commonly used, with hammer and anvil still his main tools. You can drop in to see Greg at work, or book in for a course and learn how to make a fire poker, toasting fork, letter opener, coat hook or barbecue butler

Sharif Adams / Wood Turner / North Bovey

Specialising in ancient woodturning techniques, some of which date from the Iron Age, Sharif uses a traditional pole lathe powered by a treadle to turn bowls, pots, cups, flasks and boxes, sourcing wood from sustainable Dartmoor forests. Sharif works in beautiful stone threshing barn on a working farm near North Bovey. During Sharif's demonstration, you will see him practise this age-old skill to craft a wooden bowl. Using a pole lathe requires a moderate amount of physical energy but it is great fun and can be a real challenge. No previous woodturning experience is required

Yuli Somme / Felt Maker / Moretonhampstead

Yuli is the UK’s only remaining maker of burial shrouds, a funereal tradition dating from the 17th century, when law decreed that the dead must be buried in wool. Yuli also makes felt urns for cremated remains, hot-water bottle covers, tea cosies, pillows, seat pads and hats, which she sells in her Moretonhampstead studio, which doubles as a Unitarian chapel. During her workshops, Yuli will give you a tour of her beautiful studio, pictured, and you'll have the chance to produce your own piece of felt.

Alison Hastie, Green Shoes, Moretonhampstead

With her company, Green Shoes, listed as one of world’s most ethical shoemakers, Alison Hastie and her small team hand-makes footwear to order, using full-grain leathers and vegan alternatives. Her workshop is in a beautiful chapel in the artisan town of Moretonhampstead. You'll be treated to a personal guided tour of her workshop, where Alison will show you how she hand makes her shoes from scratch.

Stuart Coote / Upholsterer / Chagford

Follow the sounds of chamber music that waft around the backstreets of Chagford and you'll be led to the Georgian coachhouse where Stuart devotes himself to upholstering antique and modern furniture the traditional way. His is a wonderfully riotous workshop, where walls are hung with half-broken chairs, furniture springs and enormous rolls of webbing, and floors are scattered with off-cuts of damasks and fine silks, piles of lambswool and hessian bags overflowing with horse hair and shredded coconut husks. Stuart welcomes visitors, but it’s best to check he’s in by calling first.

Ambrose Vevers / Wood Worker / Ashburton

One of Dartmoor’s up-and-coming craftsmen, Ambrose hand-makes contemporary furniture using traditional techniques such as steam bending. He sources his wood from coppicing and careful woodland management. Ambrose offers three-hour courses where you’ll learn to make your own coat hook or beautiful elm chopping board.

Miriam Boy / Jeweller / Chagford

Working from a cosy studio in the centre of the ancient stannary town of Chagford, Miriam makes silver jewellery using designs inspired by the moors and wildlife that surrounds her. Miriam is one of the few people in the UK to offer lovebirds the chance to design and make their own wedding rings

Ron Barter / Cider Maker / Dunsford

Ron produces up to 1500 gallons of cider using one of the UK's oldest working cider presses, in a barn that dates back to Saxon times. Ron offers one-hour tours, showing you around these characterful historic buildings and explain how cider is produced using his traditional press, pictured above. There will be a chance to look around the orchards, where old and rare apple varieties still grow, including the wonderfully-titled Fair Maids of Devon, Pigs’ Snout and Slack-ma-Girdle. There'll also be a chance to taste his cider, but beware - it’s strong!

Sophie Berger / Landscape Painter / Belstone

A rising star of Dartmoor’s arts scene, Sophie paints impressionist landscapes of the north moors, with Skaigh Woods a favourite spot. Sophie runs regular ‘art walks’ - group painting sessions in the outdoors – in the Belstone area.

Martin Brady / Leather Worker / Chagford

Martin has a hands-on approach to his craft, visiting tanneries to select the perfect hides. Here, is pictured sampling skins at J&FJ Baker & Co, the UK’s last remaining oak-bark tannery, in Colyton, East Devon. Martin hand-stitches his products, which include belts, handbags and dog collars, at his shop in Chagford, in full view of his customers. Martin offers short workshop, where you’ll have the chance to produce your own bookmark or key fob

Mary Gillett / Printmaker / Tavistock

Inspired by Dartmoor’s atmospheric landscapes, Mary etches scenes of its valleys, woodlands and open moors onto metal plates, then passes them through her vintage printing press, pictured. Mary's workshops are suitable for everyone from complete beginners to experienced printmakers

MOORLAND VIEW COTTAGE

This stunning Dartmoor holiday cottage is right on the Dartmoor Artisan Trail and displays the work of several artisans.

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  • Oct 8, 2025 A Scenic Dartmoor Road Trip
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  • Jan 13, 2026 Romantic Breaks in Devon: Where to Stay, What to Do and How to Avoid the Crowds
  • Jan 5, 2026 10 Romantic Things to Do in Devon for a Dreamy UK Honeymoon
  • Nov 30, 2025 10 Reasons to Book a Romantic Winter Break on Dartmoor
  • Mar 24, 2019 Devon Marriage Proposal Locations
  • Mar 9, 2019 Guide: Luxury Cottage Breaks in Devon
  • Mar 9, 2019 Devon's Best Fine Dining Restaurants
  • Feb 3, 2019 8 Reasons To Honeymoon With Us
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• Shopping
  • Mar 24, 2019 Town Guide: Moretonhampstead
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• Summer
  • Mar 24, 2019 Devon's Best Outdoor Eating
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  • Mar 24, 2019 Summer Holiday Ideas For Devon
  • Mar 11, 2019 Devon's Most Beautiful Beaches
  • Mar 11, 2019 Devon's Best Public Gardens
  • Mar 10, 2019 Day Trip: Salcombe
  • Feb 3, 2019 Day Trip: Cornwall
  • Feb 2, 2019 Day Trip: Dartmouth
• Swimming
  • Mar 24, 2019 Devon's Best Swimming Spots
  • Mar 11, 2019 Devon's Most Beautiful Beaches
• Town Guides
  • Mar 24, 2019 Town Guide: Bovey Tracey
  • Mar 24, 2019 Town Guide: Moretonhampstead
  • Mar 24, 2019 Town Guide: Ashburton
  • Mar 24, 2019 Town Guide: Chagford
  • Mar 11, 2019 Divine Devon Towns and Villages
  • Mar 11, 2019 Devon's Best Towns For Shopping
  • Mar 10, 2019 Day Trip: Totnes
  • Mar 10, 2019 Day Trip: Salcombe
  • Feb 2, 2019 Day Trip: Dartmouth
• Winter Breaks
  • Jan 8, 2026 Dartmoor's Best Autumn Walk
  • Nov 30, 2025 10 Reasons to Book a Romantic Winter Break on Dartmoor
  • Jul 10, 2025 Devon's Perfect Pubs
  • Mar 12, 2019 Devon's Best Interiors Shops
  • Mar 11, 2019 Dartmoor's Best Cream Teas
  • Feb 3, 2019 20 Things to Do on Dartmoor This Winter

Day Trip: Cornwall

PLACES TO VISIT IN CORNWALL

Fancy a day trip to Cornwall? Here are the best places to visit that are within an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Moorland View.

The Cornish fishing village of Port Isaac

Port Isaac

If you're looking for a classic Cornish fishing town, you've found it in Port Isaac, where a cluster of cobbled alleyways, slender opes (lanes) and cob-walled cottages collect around a medieval harbour and slipway. Though still a working harbour, Port Isaac is best known as a filming location: the hit TV series Doc Martin has used the village as a ready-made backdrop. A sign near the quayside directs visitors straight to Doc Martin's cottage. A short walk along the coast path leads to the neighbouring harbour of Port Gaverne, while a couple of miles west is Port Quin, now owned by the National Trust. Cornwall's chef du jour Nathan Outlaw has made the village his culinary centre of operations.

Port Quin

With its cluster of rocks and a lonely seaside cottage, the small cove of Port Quin makes a perfect picture. Local folklore maintains that it was once a thriving fishing port, but the entire fleet was lost during a great storm in the late 17th century. The remaining families, including some 20 widows, were all subsequently relocated to Port Isaac. It's a good focus for a walk, easily reached from Port Isaac via the coast path, about 2 miles away.

Tintagel

The spectre of legendary King Arthur looms large over Tintagel and its dramatic clifftop castle. Though the present-day ruins mostly date from the 13th century, archaeological digs have revealed the foundations of a much earlier fortress, fuelling speculation that Arthur may indeed have been born at the castle, as locals like to claim. It's a stunningly romantic sight, with its crumbling walls teetering precariously above the sheer cliffs, and well worth devoting at least half a day to exploring.

Bedruthan Steps

Bedruthan Steps

Roughly halfway between Newquay and Padstow loom the stately rock stacks of Bedruthan. These mighty granite pillars have been carved out by the relentless action of thousands of years of wind and waves, and now provide a stirring spot for a stroll. The area is owned by the National Trust (NT), which also runs the car park and cafe. Admission to the site is free, but non-NT members have to pay for parking.

Padstow

If anywhere symbolises Cornwall's increasingly chic credentials, it's Padstow. This old fishing port has become the county's most cosmopolitan corner thanks to the bevy of celebrity chefs who have set up shop here – including Rick Stein, whose Padstow-area property portfolio encompasses several restaurants and hotels, plus a gift shop, bakery, pub, seafood school and fish-and-chip bar.

Newquay

In a superb position on a knuckle of cliffs overlooking fine golden sands and Atlantic rollers, its glorious natural advantages have made Newquay the premier resort of north Cornwall. It is difficult to imagine a lineage for the place that extends more than a few decades, but the “new quay” was built in the fifteenth century in what was already a long-established fishing port, up to then more colourfully known as Towan Blistra. The town was given a boost in the nineteenth century when a railway was constructed across the peninsula for china clay shipments; with the trains came a swelling stream of seasonal visitors. The centre of town is a somewhat tacky parade of shops and restaurants from which lanes lead to ornamental gardens and cliff-top lawns. The main attraction is the beaches. Festivals run through the summer, when the town can get very crowded.

Eden Project

Eden Project

Built at the bottom of a china clay pit, the giant biomes of the Eden Project – the world's largest greenhouses – have become Cornwall's most famous landmark, and an absolutely essential visit. Looking rather like a lunar landing station, Eden's bubble-shaped biomes maintain miniature ecosystems that enable all kinds of weird and wonderful plants to flourish – from stinky rafflesia flowers and banana trees in the Rainforest Biome to cacti and soaring palms in the Mediterranean Biome. Book online for discounted admission.

Fowey

In many ways, Fowey feels like Padstow's south-coast sister; a workaday port turned well-heeled holiday town, with a tumble of pastel-coloured houses, portside pubs and tiered terraces overlooking the wooded banks of the Fowey River. The town's wealth was founded on the export of china clay from the St Austell pits, but it's been an important port since Elizabethan times, and later became the adopted home of the thriller writer Daphne du Maurier, who used the nearby house at Menabilly Barton as the inspiration for Rebecca.

Mevagissey

Mevagissey

Slender alleyways, flower-fronted cottages and a grand double-walled quay make the little coastal village of Mevagissey one of the most authentically pretty ports in southeast Cornwall. Its character has changed little since the days when it earned its keep from the sea; higgledy-piggledy buildings line the old streets leading inland from the harbour, and fishing boats bob on the incoming tide. It's not been gentrified to quite the same degree as other ports along the coast, and feels all the better for it. There are secondhand bookshops and galleries to browse, and the harbour is one of the best places on the south coast for crabbing: you'll be able to buy all the gear you need in the nearby shops. In summer, ferries run along the coast from Mevagissey Harbour to Fowe

Truro

Dominated by the three mighty spires of its 19th-century cathedral, which rises above town like a neo-Gothic supertanker, Truro is Cornwall's capital and its only city. It's the county’s main centre for shopping and commerce: the streets here are packed with high-street chains and independent shops, and there are regular weekly markets held on the paved piazza at Lemon Quay (opposite the Hall for Cornwall).

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