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.

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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

Devon Marriage Proposal Locations

Planning a marriage proposal in Devon? Here are Devon’s 18 most romantic places to pop the question.

With epic beaches, windswept mountains and postcard-pretty thatched villages, Devon is full of romantic marriage proposal locations. Here’s our pick of the 18 best places in Devon to get engaged. By Suzy Bennett, Moorland View Cottage, Devon.

Devon holiday cottage Moorland View makes a romantic destination for a marriage proposal

1. A chocolate-box holiday cottage

Could there be a more romantic place to propose than in front of a roaring fire in a thatched Devon holiday cottage? Moorland View is an idyllic holiday cottage for couples in the pretty thatched village of North Bovey, in Dartmoor National Park. With its crackling log fire, huge bath for two, epic views and a romantic rose garden, it’s had dozens of marriage proposals - and a 100% ‘yes’ rate!

2. Sharpham vineyard, Totnes

With views of the River Dart and Capability Brown-designed hillsides, the award-winning Sharpham vineyard in South Devon is just made for marriage proposals. Perched above the meandering River Dart, it is one of the UK's best-known winemakers. You can wander at will through the vine-covered slopes to find the perfect proposal location, then repair to the romantic cafe for a celebratory glass of bubbly. The most romantic way to get there is by hiring your own private picnic boat up the River Dart.

3. The River Dart, Holne

For an alternative Devon marriage proposal idea, pop the question at this local beauty spot after a bracing dip in the river. There’s a romantic 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.

4. Grade-1 listed gardens, Tavistock

A wildly romantic verdantly-gardened Eden between Dartmoor and Exmoor, these Grade-1 listed gardens have shell houses, grottos and hidden glades for a romantic tête-à-tête. Once she’s said yes - and how could she resist in such a setting? - head inside to celebrate with a champagne cream tea.

Brent Tor

5. A 12th century hilltop church

The ruggedly romantic landscape of Dartmoor offers an abundance of places to propose for outdoor lovers. One of the most romantic places on Dartmoor is the tiny parish church of The Church of St Michel de Rupe, sitting atop Brent Tor, which has spectacular views of Dartmoor.

6. A mystical dwarf-oak forest

If you love mysticism, Wistman’s Wood is the best location in Devon for a marriage proposal. A vestige of the prehistoric dwarf oak trees that used to cover Dartmoor, it’s straight out of Lord of the Rings. The moss-covered, boulder-strewn woodland floor is dotted with stunted oaks furred with mosses and lichen. The easy one-hour walk starts from the Two Bridges Hotel, near Princetown.

7. Your own sandy cove

Elendor Cove

Proposing on the beach is an oldie but a goodie. 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 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. North east along the coast from Salcombe, nestled below wooded cliffs, is Blackpool Sands, a mile-long, privately owned sweep of shingle. By day, swimmers can practise their dives from a floating dock; at sunset, the café serves beach BBQs. Beware, it attracts families in their droves during the school holidays.

8. A Dartmoor gorge

Taking in a fairy-tale castle, oak-lined gorge, ancient stone bridge and traditional pub, this two-hour walk along the Teign River is pure romance - especially in autumn when the colours are extraordinary. Hunter’s Path runs higher up the valley, while Fisherman’s Path traces the spectacular wooded riverbank path, where kingfishers and woodpeckers dart between shaded pools, and trout, salmon and otters frolic in deep, clear waters. The small rocky beaches are perfect places for picnics and toe-dipping. Look out for glimpses of Prestonbury Castle Iron Age hill fort on the other side of the valley. At the bottom of the gorge is the age-old Fingle bridge, which has recessed buttresses for packhorses to pass. Behind it is Fingle Bridge Inn, which serves a mean cream tea and has a pretty terrace overlooking the river. In spring, the woodlands here are carpeted with bluebells and daffodils.

Hot air ballooning over Dartmoor

9. Hot air balloon flight

Another romantic idea for a Devon marriage proposal 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.

10. 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 views of romantic beaches and jagged headlands.

11. A private island

This tiny private island off Bigbury-on-Sea houses an Art Deco hotel and a weather-beaten smugglers inn dating from 1336. If you want some privacy when you pop the question, head inland to find the perfect spot. 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 across.

12. A private picnic boat on the River Dart

For a Devon marriage proposal idea that’s bound to guarantee a ‘yes!’, hire a private Picnic Boat up the beautiful River Dart, stopping off in little bays to go crabbing and at Sharpham Vineyard.

13. A stately home

This Devon marriage proposal location is for culture vultures, The National Trust property of Saltram House may look familiar: it was used as the Dashwood’s’ pad in Ang Lee’s film of Sense and Sensibility. The grand Georgian façade has a Robert Adam interior with original Chippendale furniture, Wedgwood China and portraits by Sir Joshua Reynolds.

14. A waterfall

One of the most romantic locations for a Devon wedding proposal is Lydford Gorge, nestled in the north-western reaches of Dartmoor. Owned by the National Trust, the oak tree lined gorge is the deepest in the South West, stretching 1.5 miles from Lydford Village. A fairly strenuous, three and a half mile round walk, high above the gorge, brings you past the spectacular 30 metre White Lady Waterfall which cascades majestically into the chasm below. Following the route around, you will descend into the gorge and return via a low path beside the River Lyd which carves a tumbling course through the steep-sided valley. Towards the end, the trail rises slowly up to the Devil's Cauldron where a metal grid is the only thing separating you from the ferocious whirlpool below. If you want to be sure to have the romantic location for yourself, the best time to visit is shortly after it opens in the morning.

15. Watching the sunset

What could be more romantic than walking hand in hand across the pristine sands of a tranquil bay while the last light of the day ebbs away beyond the horizon? West-facing Croyde Bay in North Devon is perfect for observing one of the most awe-inspiring sunsets in the South West. The beautiful swathe of sand is stunning during the day and becomes illuminated by a warm, golden light as the sun melts into the sea at nightfall. Backed by sand dunes and framed by dramatic cliffs it's a great opportunity to crack out the camera and take a few photos which wouldn't look out of place in an exotic honeymoon brochure.

16. Stargazing

Hound Tor

With clear, dark nights, Dartmoor is a fantastic place to view the night sky and propose to your loved one. Grab a picnic rug from the cottage, a torch, blanket and bottle of wine and head to the top of Hound Tor, one of the most romantic easily accessible places to stargaze on Dartmoor.

17. A rose garden

Set within wonderful woodlands, RHS Rosemoor is a highly ornamental garden with shrubs, roses, perennials and bulbs. Originally created by Lady Anne Berry, the gardens still have original features including the woodland garden and woodland banks, as well as a huge variety of ornamental woodland trees and shrubs including Collingwood Ingram cherry introductions. There is also the beautiful Queen Mother Rose Garden containing a marvellous collection of hybrid tea and floribunda roses, and a maze of pathways which gradually leads to the side of the valley with views overlooking Rosemoor House.

18. The River Dart

Crime novelist Agatha Christie is said to have described Greenway, which was her holiday home, as ‘the loveliest place in the world’. It’s a delight to discover the walled garden, boathouse, vinery and historic interiors. Literary fans will be in their element, as the author set three of her novels here, relaxed with friends and played croquet within the grounds. Follow the romantic woodland that leads down the hillside towards to the shimmering Dart estuary for a stolen moment together.

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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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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8 Reasons To Honeymoon With Us

Eight reasons why you should spend your Devon honeymoon at our dreamy Devon honeymoon cottage

Moorland View is the perfect destination for honeymooners

1. Moorland View is one of the UK’s most romantic holiday cottages for honeymooners

What could be more romantic than spending your Devon honeymoon in a chocolate-box thatched cottage? Geared for lovebirds, Moorland View has sumptuous beds layered in fine linens, a vintage slipper bath for two, romantic log burning stove, wood-beamed walls and dreamy views. We’ve been named one of the UK’s most romantic cottages for honeymooners, with reviews in Tatler, Conde Naste Traveller and The Times.

2. We offer uber-gorgeous cottage honeymoon packages

St John’s Church, in our village, is a popular wedding venue

Our honeymoon package includes a bottle of champagne on ice for your arrival, rose petals for scattering on the bed and a box of delicious artisan chocolates.

3. We’re in one of Devon’s prettiest villages

North Bovey is one of Devon’s most romantic honeymoon destinations, with clusters of thatched cottages grouped around an oak-shaded village green, 13th century church, fabulous pub and fairytale views of Dartmoor.

3. We’re surrounded by wildly romantic countryside, with walks galore

Dartmoor is one of the UK’s largest wildernesses, where walks take you into a world of wuthering moors, lushly wooded glades, gushing rivers and remote thatched hamlets. Check our guide to the most romantic things to do on a Devon honeymoon or mini-moon.

4. You won’t have to cook unless you want to

Some of the UK’s most romantic restaurants and cosiest pubs are on our doorstep, including Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park. We offer a range of luxurious extras, including oven-ready meals and breakfasts, as well as the services of a private chef.

5. You’ll be near a luxury spa and country club

Swim in their beautiful pool overlooking the moor, enjoy fine dining or a cream tea in their elegant lounge or stroll around their beautiful grounds.

Your own log fire

6. You’ll have all the luxury of staying in a hotel, but with oodles more space and privacy

Your own log fire, your own sofa ... there’s no sharing with complete strangers at Moorland View.

7. You won’t be woken up by other guests, or by housekeeping knocking on your door

Moorland View is in an incredible peaceful village, where the only sounds are birdsong, distant church bells and the occasional clip-clopping of horses’ hooves. Far more romantic than hearing your neighbour’s toilet flushing, or housekeeping knocking on your door, wouldn’t you agree?

8. We won’t fail you

We’ve been welcoming honeymooners for over 17 years, with 100% five-star reviews on Tripadvisor. Many of our couples come back year after year for their anniversaries.

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Eight Ideas For A Devon Mini-Moon

8 ROMANTIC THINGS TO DO ON A DEVON MINI-MOON

Only have time for a mini-moon or short honeymoon? Here are eight romantic ideas for things to do on a UK mini-moon that are right on our doorstep.

Moorland View is the perfect mini-moon escape

1. Stay in a chocolate-box thatched cottage

With a log fire, wood-beamed walls, vintage slipper bath for two and rose garden, luxury holiday cottage, Moorland View, is one of the UK’s most romantic places to stay for a mini-moon or short honeymoon.

2. Have a spa treatment in a castle

Bovey Castle

Ok, so it’s not actually a castle, but what Bovey Castle lacks in heritage, it makes up for with fabulous facilities and sweeping views. Set on a private sporting estate just up the river from Moorland View, this luxury hotel has an 18-hole championship golf course, indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, fly-fishing lake, croquet lawn and archery arena. Huge stone fireplaces, soaring ceilings, ornate panelling, squishy sofas and terraces with epic views make it one of the grandest destinations on Dartmoor. The 20-minute walk from the cottage along the river, across old stone bridges and through woodlands, is beautiful.

3. Walk a Dartmoor gorge

Fingle Gorge

Taking in a fairytale castle, oak-lined gorge, ancient stone bridge and traditional pub, this two-hour walk along the Teign River makes an ultra-romantic mini-moon destination. Hunter’s Path runs higher up the valley, offering epic views, while Fisherman’s Path traces the spectacular wooded riverbank path, where kingfishers and woodpeckers dart between shaded pools, and trout, salmon and otters frolic in deep, clear waters. The small rocky beaches are perfect places for picnics and toe-dipping. Look out for glimpses of Prestonbury Castle Iron Age hill fort on the other side of the valley. At the bottom of the gorge is the age-old Fingle bridge, which has recessed buttresses for packhorses to pass, and Fingle Bridge Inn, which serves a mean cream tea and has a pretty terrace overlooking the river. In spring, the woodlands here are carpeted with bluebells and daffodils. > More Dartmoor walks

4. Horse ride across the moor

For an adventurous mini-moon idea, book in for a canter across the moors. Shilstone Rock Stables, in Widecombe in the Moor, is the most safety conscious stable around, and offers hacks in small groups tailored to experience. > More Dartmoor activities

5. Take a road trip

There’s no better way to blow away the cobwebs on a UK mini-moon than with a drive across the high moor. Our most romantic scenic drive takes in epic moorland, pretty thatched hamlets and the remains of a Bronze Age village. 

6. Hunker down in a cosy country pub

Our friendly village pub, the Ring of Bells, has recently reopened after being destroyed in a fire, with a like-for-like restoration that has melded medieval features with a fresh, modern feel. Spend one of your mini-moon evenings next to one of the log-burning stoves and tuck into some Dartmoor-bred lamb or fresh fish landed in nearby Brixham. The sunny pub garden is one of Dartmoor’s prettiest. > More country pubs

7. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant

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 with a walk around the grounds. > More restaurants

8. Go stargazing

Star-gazing on Hound Tor

Our last idea for your UK mini-moon 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.  Grab a picnic rug from the cottage, a torch, blanket and bottle of wine and head to the top of Hound Tor, one of the most atmospheric and easily accessible spots to stargaze. You’ll find full details in the cottage.
> Guided tours