2026 Devon Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

#backpacking2026 I did this section of the South West Coast Path and it’s still one of those UK trips I remember when I want to plan another walking adventure. 📍 South Devon, England The South West Coast Path runs for around 630 miles along the coast, but you can easily pick a section. We walked from Hope Cove towards Dartmouth, stopping around Salcombe, Hallsands and Strete along the way. 🥾 Hope Cove → Salcombe → Hallsands → Strete → Dartmouth It’s roughly 35 miles / 56 km, and spreading it over 4 days gives you time to actually enjoy the scenery rather than spending the whole day watching your walking app! 😂 🌊 There are cliffs, beaches, little villages, estuaries and plenty of hills. It’s beautiful, but definitely not an effortless seaside stroll. 🎒 One thing I’d recommend if you’re doing it now is using a luggage-transfer service. Luggage Transfers Ltd can collect your main bag from your hotel or B&B and deliver it to your next accommodation. You walk with just a small daypack, which makes a huge difference on a multi-day coastal route. Prices currently start from around £23 per bag per day, with a 20kg allowance. The Coast Path is maintained by local authorities, landowners, rangers and volunteers, who regularly deal with signage, erosion, gates and repairs. Conditions can still change, so check for diversions before setting off. 💡 Looking back, I really liked the freedom of doing a multi-day walk while still having somewhere comfortable to sleep at night. Would you try this section of the South West Coast Path? 🌊🥾 #SouthWestCoastPath #Devon #SouthDevon #HopeCove #Salcombe #Dartmouth #BackpackingUK #HikingUK

absolutely stunning views in devon

Smoke drifts slowly toward the Devon countryside🌿. Board a vintage steam train and immerse yourself in the leisurely moments Agatha once cherished. ✨**Trip highlights** ▫️Dartmouth Steam Railway: Vintage green steam locomotive, wooden carriages with velvet curtains. The tracks wind through valleys, countryside, and the coast, creating a truly atmospheric experience with the whistle blowing. Pass by viaducts and forest tunnels, enjoying views of the River Dart estuary along the way. ▫️Greenway, Agatha's holiday home: Her private country estate. The garden and old house still hold many of her personal belongings, and many inspirations for her novels were born here. ▫️Dartmouth town: Medieval cobblestone streets, an ancient harbor. Stroll through the timber-framed buildings of the Butterwalk and experience the slow pace of this seaside town. ▫️Dartmouth Castle: An old castle by the estuary, overlooking the river and bay. 🚞**Itinerary (one day)** Board the steam train from Paignton and enjoy the countryside and coastal scenery until you reach Kingswear station. Take a short ferry ride across the River Dart to explore Dartmouth town. Head to Greenway, Agatha's former residence, to tour the old house and gardens. In the afternoon, stroll through the town's streets and visit the castle. In the evening, take the ferry back, then catch the steam train for the return trip, watching the sunset over the fields by the tracks. 💡**Travel tips** The steam train only operates from May–October. Be sure to check the schedule in advance, and we recommend allowing plenty of time during peak season. Parking at Greenway is limited, so public transport is more convenient. The town has many cobblestone roads, so wear comfortable shoes. It can be windy by the coast and valley, so bring a light jacket. Ferry and train combo tickets are more cost-effective. Keep an eye on the last departure time so you don't miss your return trip.

No need to crowd into popular cities; this seaside town in Devon is truly soothing. The river flows gently, boats drift leisurely, and life naturally slows down. ✨Trip Highlights ▪️Dartmouth Castle🏰: A 600-year-old estuary castle guarding the mouth of the River Dart. With rocks by the sea, the atmosphere is incredible at high tide, and the views of the bay are stunning. ▪️Bayard’s Cove🪨: A historic old port where the Mayflower once set sail. The old stone walls are very photogenic. ▪️River Dart Cruise🛶: Cruise along the river, enjoy the lush greenery on both banks, and watch yachts and ferries shuttle back and forth. ▪️Old Town Alleys🚶: Winding medieval streets, colorful cottages, niche handmade shops, and a comfortable pace for strolling. ▪️Britannia Royal Naval College: Overlooking the entire estuary, the architecture is grand, and you can take a guided tour to learn about naval history. 🗓Itinerary (2-day light leisure) Day 1: Arrive in town. Stroll through the old town alleys, walk along Bayard’s Cove to watch the boats, and wait for the sunset by the river in the evening. Day 2: Visit Dartmouth Castle in the morning. Afterward, take a River Dart cruise. If you have time, take a short ferry ride to the other side to check out the steam train and end your trip at a leisurely pace. 💡Travel Tips 1. Pay attention to the tide times for the castle, as some paths are affected by high tide. Check the tide table before you go. 2. The town has many cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes. 3. During peak season, it is recommended to visit the cruise and castle during off-peak hours. Some locations have specific opening hours. 4. It can be windy by the sea, so bring a light jacket.

📍Location: Devon, UK 🏠Architecture: Secular Retreat (designed by Peter Zumthor) "The essence of architecture is to make one feel the meaning of existence." — Standing on that grassy slope surrounded by Monterey pines, watching the exposed concrete and floor-to-ceiling glass quietly confront each other in the morning light, I suddenly understood the weight of Zumthor's words. · -- 🌿 First impression: Not a luxury mansion, but a retreat for life Passing through the rolling hills of Devon, a low-key concrete building appears in view. No exaggerated shapes, no complicated decorations, just large floor-to-ceiling glass that brings the surrounding grassy slopes, pine forests, and sky completely into the interior. Heaviness and transparency coexist wonderfully here: the exposed concrete walls are as steady as a mountain, while the glass curtain walls are as light as nothingness. Pushing open the door, the sound of the wind, the sunlight, and the sound of one's own breathing become the only protagonists in the space. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is more like a "retreat" — not an escape, but a return. · -- 🛏️ Living: Waking up in the changing light and shadow, every window is a painting The morning is awakened by light. Sunlight spills through the floor-to-ceiling windows onto the concrete walls, the texture clearly visible, and the warmth of the wooden floor comes from the soles of the feet. Without unnecessary furniture, just a bed, a few chairs, and a wooden table, the space is intentionally left blank. Lying in bed, you can see the grassy slopes outside the window rising and falling with the breeze, clouds moving slowly, and time seems to stretch. The bathroom also faces the landscape; when bathing, you can see pine branches swaying in the wind, with birds occasionally flying by. There is no need for a TV or stereo here; the sounds of nature are the best background music. · -- 🌲 Environment: Zumthor's view of nature — letting architecture grow from the land What moved me most was Zumthor's respect for the original vegetation of the site. Many Monterey pines were intentionally preserved during construction, and the new gardens and landscapes were carefully planned; even the direction of the wind and the angle of the light seem to have been meticulously considered. The building does not encroach on nature, but rather seems like a part that grew naturally from this land. The coldness of the concrete is neutralized by the warmth of the wood, and the sunlight casts the shadows of leaves on the walls, becoming a changing decorative painting. Walking inside, you can't even tell where the architecture ends and nature begins. · -- 💭 Reflections: Minimalism is not emptiness, but letting the senses reawaken There are no Instagrammable spots here, no luxurious soft furnishings, only the texture of concrete, the warmth of wood, and the tranquility illuminated by sunlight. But it is precisely this "less" that makes one notice the details ignored by city life: the rustling sound of a breeze passing through the pine forest, the steam rising from a cup of tea, and the subtle changes in the color of the walls at dusk. Zumthor once said that the essence of architecture is to make people feel the meaning of existence. At Secular Retreat, I truly felt it — not as a tourist, but as a person coexisting with nature, existing briefly and authentically. · -- 💡 Some honest thoughts ✅ Suitable for: Architecture and design enthusiasts, minimalists, and those looking to completely clear their minds and recharge ❌ Not suitable for: Those seeking lively entertainment or needing extensive amenities 📌 Booking advice: Secular Retreat is operated by Living Architecture. Availability is very limited; it is recommended to check the schedule on the official website months in advance. Public transportation in Devon is limited; driving is recommended 💰 Reference: The rental price for the entire property is relatively high, suitable for groups or special anniversaries, but the experience is definitely worth the price · -- "Living in an ideal home, this is probably what it feels like — the architecture disappears, nature pours in, and you are still here."

Headed to Dartmouth? 🏞️ Here’s why Browns Hotel is your top spot for a cozy coastal escape: location, legendary breakfasts, and five-star staff—all in the heart of town! Top Stays in Dartmouth: Browns Hotel Review Location, location, location! Browns Hotel (27-29 Victoria Rd) puts you right where you want to be—minutes from the River Dart, the town’s famous ferries, the Devon Steam Railway, and local shopping gems or restaurants. No need to drive everywhere! 🛥️ The rooms? Super clean, modern, and actually spacious—think comfy beds, steamy hot showers, and those little toiletry touches that make you feel spoiled. Some rooms give you town views while others are a bit nosier thanks to nearby pubs—worth asking your preferences at booking. Worried about breakfast? Don’t. 🍳 Browns serves up a cooked-to-order spread with endless tea, coffee, and biscuits. Fresh, hot, and as varied as you want! Expect a relaxed, table-service vibe—just be patient if it’s busy. Parking’s always a drama in Dartmouth, but with Browns' complimentary parking vouchers you’ll have access to nearby lots. Pro tip: Ditch the car and walk or hop the local transport, everything’s close! Top shout-out: the staff! Friendly, helpful, always ready to sort you out—whether you need check-in flexibility or help with something unexpected. Quick Tips: · Walk to all main attractions—skip the car for stress-free exploring. · Eat breakfast here (worth it!) but for dinners, try local seafood spots on the Dart. · Check in early if you can; pick rooms away from pub noise if possible. #DartmouthHotels #DevonStay #UKTravel #CoastalEngland #tripdotcom

There are places where nature feels beautifully untamed, and Dartmoor National Park is one of them. Located in Devon, southwest England, Dartmoor is a vast landscape of windswept moorland, rugged granite tors, deep wooded valleys, rushing rivers and historic villages. The park covers about 954 km², making it one of England's great landscapes for escaping into nature. 🪨 The Granite Tors Dartmoor's most recognizable feature is its dramatic granite tors—rock formations rising above the surrounding moorland. There are hundreds of named and lesser-known tors scattered across the landscape. Haytor, Hound Tor, Great Mis Tor, Bellever Tor, Bowerman's Nose and Staple Tor are among the most memorable. Each has its own shape, character and views across the open countryside. 🐴 Ponies on the Moor One of Dartmoor's most charming sights is its free-roaming ponies, which have become an iconic part of the landscape. They share the moors with cattle, sheep and a variety of wildlife, helping maintain the character of this open countryside. 🌾 A Landscape Full of History Dartmoor isn't simply wilderness—it is a living historic landscape. Ancient stone rows, burial monuments, settlements and other archaeological remains reveal thousands of years of human activity. Dartmoor is particularly important for Bronze Age archaeology. Its landscape has also inspired literature and film. Arthur Conan Doyle's The Hound of the Baskervilles famously uses Dartmoor's mysterious atmosphere, while the landscape featured prominently in War Horse. 🌲 Valleys, Rivers & Woodlands Beyond the open moorland are peaceful wooded valleys and fast-flowing rivers. Ancient woodland, rocky riverbanks, waterfalls and green valleys create a striking contrast with the exposed high moor. 📸 Why Dartmoor Is So Photogenic Dartmoor changes dramatically with the weather. Mist can transform the tors into mysterious silhouettes; sunlight brings out the golden grasses and weathered granite; and sunsets can turn the entire horizon into layers of warm colour. Best experience: explore a tor, walk across the open moor, pause for the views, and let the changing Devon weather become part of the adventure. ✨ Final Impression Dartmoor is more than a national park—it is a landscape of atmosphere, history and freedom. Ancient granite standing above endless moorland, ponies wandering beneath huge skies, hidden valleys and centuries-old archaeological remains make it one of England's most distinctive natural destinations. 🏞️ Known for: Granite tors • Wild ponies • Moorland • Ancient archaeology • Rivers & valleys • Folklore • Hiking #Dartmoor #DartmoorNationalPark #Devon #England #UKTravel #VisitEngland #NatureLovers #GraniteTors #Haytor #HoundTor #TravelPhotography #ExploreEngland

I stayed at The Savoy for one night on my way down to Devon and had a lovely overall experience. Daniela, I believe, kindly escorted me to my room, where I was pleasantly surprised to find I’d been upgraded. The chocolates waiting in the room were a delightful touch, making my arrival feel even more special. The room itself was very comfortable, and I especially loved the underfloor heating in the bathroom. This is a feature I enjoy at home due to often getting cold feet, so having it here felt like an appreciated little luxury. Small details like this truly make a stay memorable. The doormen were friendly and welcoming, and breakfast was enjoyable. However, there was a slightly uncomfortable moment when the server randomly asked me if I was staying for work. I wasn’t, but the question, asked in front of nearby guests, felt a bit intrusive. As a very private person, I would have preferred it to be posed more discreetly, if at all. While I’m sure it wasn’t ill-intended, it did make me uneasy. I was in London to do some shopping and see *Paddington* at the theatre connected to the hotel, which made the location perfect for my plans. I also tried room service, and while it wasn’t bad, the food wasn’t quite to my taste. What really disappointed me, though, and the reason I deducted a star, was the pool. One of my main reasons for choosing this hotel was to use the pool. I had planned my morning around it, only to find it wasn’t open when I got there. I wish I’d been informed of this beforehand, as availability of the pool had been a key factor in my decision to stay here.

#bucketlistdestinations Visiting Watersmeet in Devon felt like stepping into a completely different world. I followed the woodland paths alongside the river, surrounded by towering trees, moss-covered rocks, and the sound of flowing water. The further I walked, the more peaceful the landscape became. I stopped several times to enjoy the small waterfalls and beautiful river views, and the fresh woodland air made the experience even better. What I loved most was how natural and secluded everything felt, despite it being a popular walking destination. It was the kind of place where I could slow down, explore at my own pace, and simply enjoy nature. Watersmeet definitely deserves a place on my #bucketlistdestinations list.

#bucketlistdestinations Visiting Heddon Valley in Devon felt like walking into a peaceful natural escape. I followed the trail through the wooded valley, with the river running nearby and green hills rising on both sides. As I continued toward the coast, the landscape gradually opened up and revealed dramatic views of the sea. I stopped along the way to enjoy the waterfalls, woodland scenery, and fresh countryside air. The walk was especially rewarding because the scenery kept changing from forest to valley to rugged coastline. I took plenty of photos, but the peaceful atmosphere was my favorite part. Heddon Valley felt like a true hidden adventure and definitely belongs on my #bucketlistdestinations list.

Okehampton lovely Devon town great Dartmoor museum, castle and lovely parks. Plenty lunch and coffee stops and town market.

#bucketlistdestinations Visiting Blackpool Sands in Devon felt like discovering a little Mediterranean corner of the English coast. I arrived to find a beautiful sheltered beach surrounded by green hills and clear blue-green water. I spent time walking along the shoreline, watching the waves, and exploring the rocky edges of the beach. The scenery was incredibly photogenic, especially when the sunlight reflected across the water. What I enjoyed most was the peaceful feeling of being surrounded by nature rather than busy city streets. I took plenty of photos, but the atmosphere was something that really had to be experienced in person. Blackpool Sands easily earned a place on my #bucketlistdestinations list.

#bucketlistdestinations My visit to Watersmeet was one of my favorite nature experiences in Devon. I spent the day walking through lush woodland trails with the river constantly guiding the way. Along the route, I discovered rushing streams, rocky pools, little cascades, and beautiful viewpoints hidden among the trees. The atmosphere was incredibly peaceful, with birdsong and running water replacing the noise of everyday life. I took plenty of photos, but the scenery was even better in person because of the peaceful atmosphere surrounding it. Watersmeet reminded me that a bucket-list adventure doesn't always need to be somewhere famous or far away. Sometimes, a quiet woodland valley can create the most memorable travel moments. #bucketlistdestinations

The railway is one of the few working around the world connecting to its highest neighbour town above the rocks the views are to die for! Also they do a mean cream tea whilst your looking at the devon coast #travel2026 #Devon #Northdevon #seascapes #seascapes #Beach

You don’t need to spend a fortune to explore England. Some of the country’s most dramatic beaches, coastal villages, caves and viewpoints are completely free to visit. Here are 9 incredible places in England you can explore for £0: 📍 Bamburgh Beach – Walk along a huge sandy beach with one of England’s most impressive castles as the backdrop. 📍 Robin Hood’s Bay – A gorgeous Yorkshire fishing village packed with winding lanes, traditional cottages and dramatic sea views. 📍 Valley of Rocks – One of Devon’s most spectacular coastal landscapes, with rugged cliffs and incredible views over the Bristol Channel. 📍 Rydal Cave – A huge man-made cavern hidden in the Lake District, surrounded by lakes, mountains and woodland. 📍 Winnat’s Pass – One of the most dramatic roads in the Peak District, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. 📍 Bamford Edge – An amazing viewpoint over the Peak District and Ladybower Reservoir. Perfect for hiking and photos. 📍 Bedruthan Steps – Cornwall at its wildest, with enormous sea stacks, cliffs and turquoise water. 📍 Chapman’s Pool – A beautiful hidden bay on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, especially stunning around sunset. 📍 Lud’s Church – A deep, moss-covered rocky chasm in the Peak District that honestly feels like something from a fantasy film. 🌿 The best part? Every single one is free to explore. Of course, you may still need to budget for transport or parking, but the actual experience doesn’t have to cost you anything. ✨ England can be expensive, but exploring it definitely doesn’t have to be. Which one would you visit first? 👀 #England #UKTravel #VisitEngland #BudgetTravel #FreeThingsToDo #hiking #HiddenGems #EnglandTravel #TravelUK #Tripcom #TravelInspiration

North Devon was a delight when beautiful scenery, gorgeous views and delicious food. With our base being Combe Martin we were able to take short drives out to Barnstaple, Wollacombe and Lynton and Lynmouth. Would definitely recommend a trip to Lynton and Lynmouth as it was beautiful. The cliff rail can’t be missed neither can the Glen Lyn Gorge. Wollacombe had a fantastic sandy beach which was just a fabulous way to spend as much time as you want. Would advise a trip to Barricane beach and let you find the surprise yourself. Places near Combe Martin that we would advise to visit to eat: · sawmills · pack o cards · black and white fish shop

#worthitomot #Clovelly #Devon Clovelly is not a village you drive into—it’s a toll experience. In 2026 the visitor centre at the top charges £15.50 adult (£42 family) covering parking, the audiovisual show, a fisherman’s cottage museum, and entry to the village itself; NT members get nothing off because it’s privately owned by the Clovelly Estate. I paid, parked, and walked down the Hobby Drive (a 1.5-mi wooded carriage road with sea glimpses) or took the Land Rover shuttle (included) to the top of the cobbled main street. From there it’s a 1:4 cobbled descent—no cars, just donkeys and sledges sliding goods down on a wooden skid. The Red Lion Inn at the bottom (herring plate £14, card ok) sits on the harbour where the Atlantic throws spray over the wall. I climbed back up the cobbles (25 min, thigh-burn) rather than wait for the Land Rover. Mistake: wearing a wheelie suitcase—people do, and it’s carnage on the cobbles; backpack only. Another mistake: coming in August bank-holiday week—the one street becomes a human conveyor. March or October gives you the herring gulls and nobody else. Worth it? Debatable. £15.50 for a single street is steep, but the descent is unlike anywhere else in England—part Norwegian, part Devon. If you’ve done Polperro and Port Isaac, Clovelly is the extreme version. Question: is a £15.50 private-toll village justified by the donkey-cart cobble descent, or is the free coast path above it the real Clovelly?

Looking for a relaxing UK seaside escape? Here’s a simple 3-day itinerary that combines beautiful beaches, coastal walks, great food and charming harbour towns. 📍 Day 1 –:Explore Torquay After checking into Hotel Indigo Torquay by IHG, take a leisurely walk to Torquay Harbour and enjoy the stunning views of the yachts and boats. Spend the afternoon strolling along Torquay Beach, soaking up the atmosphere before treating yourself to classic fish and chips by the sea while watching the sunset. Must-do: · Torquay Harbour · Torquay Beach · Evening seaside walk 🏖️ Day 2 – Beach Hopping Head to Babbacombe Beach via the Babbacombe Cliff Railway, a scenic ride with spectacular coastal views. From there, walk over to nearby Oddicombe Beach; both beaches are within easy walking distance and perfect for relaxing or swimming. In the evening, return to Torquay. During summer, you may even catch free live music and entertainment along the promenade. Highlights: · Babbacombe Cliff Railway ; its cost £2:50 and £5 both ways · Babbacombe Beach · Oddicombe Beach · Evening entertainment (seasonal) 🚍 Day 3 – Visit Brixham Take the No. 25 bus to Brixham (around 35 minutes). Explore this picturesque fishing town, wander around the harbour, enjoy fresh seafood, look out for dolphins on boat trips, or simply relax by the beach. Don’t forget to pick up a few local souvenirs before heading home. Things to do: · Visit Brixham Harbour · Dolphin-watching boat trips · Fresh seafood · Souvenir shopping 🏨 Where to Stay Hotel Indigo Torquay by IHG offers a great location within walking distance of Torquay’s main attractions, making it an excellent base for exploring the English Riviera. 🍽️ Food Recommendations · Boomiis West African Restaurant 📍171 Union Street, Torquay TQ1 4BX · Traditional fish and chips by Torquay Harbour are a must-try. 💡 Travel Tip Don’t miss the English Riviera Wheel! For just £6, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over Torquay Harbour and the coastline—perfect for photos. ✨ Overall: A wonderful long weekend filled with beautiful scenery, relaxing beaches, delicious food and charming coastal towns. Perfect for couples, solo travellers or anyone looking for a peaceful UK getaway. 🌊☀️

Brixham Devon, a seaside town in southwest England Morning: Harbour Charm and Historic Ships Brixham Harbour: Enjoy the colorful fishing village houses and moored fishing boats, experiencing the authentic English Riviera. Golden Hind Museum Ship: Visit the 1:1 scale replica of the historic sailing ship "Golden Hind," moored in the harbor, and learn about the stories of pirates and the Age of Exploration. Harbour Brunch: Enjoy coffee, freshly baked pastries, or the famous local fish and chips at a local café by the harbor. Afternoon: Natural Beauty and Coastal Promenade Shoalstone Seawater Pool: This is a historic open-air seawater tidal pool (Lido). The 53-meter-long pool is built directly onto the natural rocks of the coastline. At high tide each day, clean seawater naturally fills the pool, providing a unique experience similar to wild swimming but safer. Open free of charge from May to September each year, the pool is operated by a local charity volunteer team. Donation boxes are available on-site, and each swimmer is encouraged to donate 3 pounds (approximately 8.50 pounds for a family) to support maintenance. Berry Head National Nature Reserve: Head to the cliffside Berry Head National Nature Reserve for stunning sea views; you might even spot dolphins or seabirds. Breakwater Beach: Stroll along the breakwater or wade in the clear water and enjoy the coastal scenery. Seafood Dinner: Head to the renowned Rockfish seafood restaurant to savor top-quality fresh catch unloaded that day from England's largest fishing port; you might even spot wild seals. If you have time to stay overnight, you can join a morning Fish Market Tour to watch the fish being auctioned off after being brought ashore; the price includes breakfast at the famous Rockfish restaurant.

peaceful Devon

Exeter is one of the most storied cities in southwest England. Ancient churches, red-brick streets, and verdant gardens—every step feels like entering a historical poem, quietly sensing the warmth of time. Afternoon sunlight falls on the stone walls of Exeter Cathedral, the golden rays seeming to tell a story. The corner towers gaze silently at the sky, the red brick walls bearing the marks of time. Walking through the old town's alleyways, the wind carries the scent of flowers, and the shadows of trees sway on the ground. Every corner holds the gentle charm of England—a cup of coffee, a melody, a smile. Exeter is more than just history; it's a rhythm, a slower way of life. When you look up at the cathedral spire, you'll discover that tranquility can be magnificent. 📍 Travel Information Location: Exeter, Devon, England · Must-see attractions: Exeter Cathedral, Rougemont Gardens, Exeter Quay · Suggested activities: · Stroll through the old town streets · Visit a medieval church · Relax at a riverside café #ExeterCathedral #VisitExeter #BritishHeritage #EnglandTravel #HistoricTown #NaturePoetry #LovelyMoments

A little North Devon day trip 🌊 Clovelly → Instow #NorthDevon #Clovelly #Instow #Devon #VisitDevon

The Wisteria at Knightshayes: Devon's Quiet Spring Spectacle Tucked into the mid-Devon countryside near Tiverton, Knightshayes Court is best known for its Gothic Revival mansion and sweeping parkland — but for a few weeks each spring, it's the wisteria that steals the show. The old standard-pruned wisteria in the Paved Garden has been trained and gnarled over decades into something closer to sculpture than shrub — twisted trunks the colour of driftwood, holding up cascades of lavender-mauve blooms that hang like something out of a dream. Walk beneath one in full flower and the light comes through the petals in soft violet and gold, the whole garden filtered through colour. What makes Knightshayes worth the detour isn't just the sheer volume of blossom, though there's plenty of that — it's the detail. Look closely and you'll find every stage of the bloom happening at once: tight unopened buds still clenched shut, full trusses hanging heavy and complete, and older flowers just beginning to brown and curl at the edges, papery and spent. By the time the last blooms let go, the paths beneath the vines are carpeted in fallen petals, a soft drift of white and lilac against the moss and stone — its own kind of beauty, quieter than the peak bloom but no less worth seeing. When to go: Wisteria at Knightshayes typically flowers through late April into May, though exact timing shifts with the season — a warm spring can bring it forward by a couple of weeks. If you want the vines at their fullest, aim for late April; if you're drawn to the more melancholy, petals-underfoot look, a visit just as the blooms begin to fade has its own quiet reward. Getting there: Knightshayes is just off the M5 (Junction 27), about two miles from Tiverton, with Tiverton Parkway the nearest train station (roughly 8 miles). There's a pay-and-display car park on site, and the National Trust's Dartline 398 bus service connects from Tiverton. Beyond the wisteria: The gardens run well beyond the Paved Garden — expect topiary, a woodland garden, a walled kitchen garden, and 300 acres of parkland to wander. The Stables Café is a good stop for a cream tea afterwards, and the house itself, designed by the Victorian architect William Burges, is worth an hour if the weather turns. A slow, unhurried garden visit rather than a headline attraction — but for a short window each spring, Knightshayes' wisteria is one of Devon's loveliest, least crowded floral displays.

Devon in summer is seriously where it's at—this spot is everyone’s fave staycation for a reason! British families flock here for that pure paradise vibe. Think gorgeous sandy beaches, lush countryside views, and adorable seaside towns that are soo Instagrammable. 😍 Whether you’re chasing the sun at Woolacombe Beach (postcode: EX34 7BP—open 24/7 for those sunset strolls!), or getting your coastal fix in Salcombe, Devon is all about laid-back adventures and the best fish & chips ever. 🍟🐟 The Dartmoor National Park (address: Dartmoor, Devon, TQ13 9XT; open daily) is epic for hiking, wild pony spotting, and picnics with your crew. Every little corner here screams summer bliss, from cream teas at cute cafés to paddleboarding on the River Dart (try the waters down at Totnes, TQ9 5EW). Devon’s got you covered for pure chill vibes, adventure feels, and Insta-worthy stays—all thanks to its dreamy coastlines and vibrant towns! Ready to live your best summer life? Book your Devon escape on trip.com and let the fun begin!

Just spent the best day at Haldon Forest, nestled right on the edge of Dartmoor in gorgeous Devon, South West England—and y’all, this place is a whole VIBE in the summer! 🌞 If you’re craving fresh air and epic scenery, Haldon Forest delivers big time. Endless trails wind through lush woodland, making it perfect for hiking, cycling, or even just chill family walks (dog-friendly too, obvs 🐕). The sunlight filters through the tall green trees and it’s honestly cinematic. Location basics: Haldon Forest Park, Bullers Hill, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7XR, UK Opening hours: Daily, 8am–6pm (but check before you go, especially in winter!) Don’t miss the Go Ape treetop adventure if you’re feeling brave (or wanna impress your Insta followers 😏). There are picnic spots EVERYWHERE, plus a cute on-site café—grab a coffee or ice cream and just vibe. Bonus tip: You can hire a bike on-site if you don’t have your own, so no excuses! The forest is super easy to reach by car from Exeter, and parking is a breeze. If you’re in Devon in summer, do yourself a favour and spend a day here. Haldon Forest is sooo good for relaxing, reconnecting with nature, and snapping those main character pics. Happy adventuring! 🌳💚

If you’re craving a dose of pure English countryside magic, Devon is the ultimate vibe! This county is straight up #GardenGoals , packed with National Trust stunners that’ll have you literally stopping to smell the roses 🌹 and *absolutely* filling your camera roll. Devon’s gardens are totally serving dreamy landscapes, rare Insta-worthy blooms, and cozy corners for those spontaneous photo shoots. Here are a few must-visit gems you can’t miss: Killerton (Broadclyst, Exeter EX5 3LE, open daily 10am–5pm) – Think 18th-century mansion surrounded by wildflower meadows, magical gardens, and secret pathways waiting to be explored. Killerton is perfect for those slow, dreamy walks—or an epic lazy picnic spot if you just want to vibe out. Buckland Abbey (Yelverton, Devon PL20 6EY, open daily 10am–5pm) – This place brings the drama with terraced gardens, woodland walks, and serious history vibes. You’ll be time-traveling through the flowers—total fairytale feels. Knightshayes (Chettiscombe, Tiverton EX16 7RQ, open daily 10am–5pm) – If you’re all about that classic English country garden, Knightshayes is a must-see. Expect massive lawns, colorful borders, quirky trees, and endless new angles for your stories. Most National Trust gardens in Devon are open year-round, but always double-check opening hours on trip.com before you roll up—England’s weather is legendary for changing up the plans ☔. As soon as you step into these botanical wonderlands, it’s instant main character energy. Grab your phone for max content, channel your zen, and let Devon’s gardens do the magic. Trust me—these are *world-class* attractions that every plant-lover and garden dreamer needs to tick off their bucket list!

Knightshayes National Trust seriously delivers when it comes to charming days out in Devon! If you’re a nature lover, this spot is *chef’s kiss* perfection—the gardens here? Absolutely gorgeous, bursting with vibrant blooms, epic lawns, and hidden corners that feel straight out of a fairytale. You’ll find Knightshayes just outside Tiverton (Bolham, Tiverton EX16 7RQ). The estate is massive, with dreamy walking trails, majestic trees, and secret nooks that are sooo Instagrammable. Garden tours happen most days and trust me, you’ll wanna bring your camera. Pro tip: The gardens are open daily from 10am to 5pm, so there’s plenty of time to wander and soak in the vibes. If you’re feeling peckish, the on-site café serves up yummy homemade cakes and classic Devon cream tea—an absolute must-try! Whether you’re into history, flowers, or just vibing with great scenery, Knightshayes is a total Devon gem. Get those shoes on, grab your shades, and let your inner cottagecore kid live its best life!