12 Places in Devon (England) That Will Leave You Speechless       

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Devon completely stole my heart. The moment I stood on the wild cliffs at Salcombe, watching waves crash against red sandstone rocks while seabirds soared overhead, I knew this wasn’t just another pretty English county. The sea breeze carried the scent of salt and wildflowers, and I couldn’t stop smiling at how ridiculously beautiful it all was.

From the dramatic rock formations of Ladram Bay to the rolling hills of Dartmoor, where wild ponies roam free, these are the most beautiful places in Devon that will take your breath away. This slice of England feels like it was pulled straight from a fairytale, and I can’t wait to show you my 12 favorite spots that made me fall completely in love with this magical corner of Britain!

Top-Rated Places to Visit in Devon  

Looking to explore Devon’s most beautiful places? From the stunning cliffs of Jurassic Coast to the charming villages of Dartmoor National Park, Devon is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the historic streets of Exeter, marvel at the natural beauty of Lundy Island, or explore the cultural richness of Totnes. Discover the tranquil allure of Salcombe, the picturesque landscapes of Exmoor, or the serene beaches of Woolacombe. Whether you’re into coastal walks, history, or countryside charm, here are 12 of Devon’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Bantham Beach

• 📍 Location: South Devon, 20 minutes from Kingsbridge and part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♂️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, birdwatchers 🦅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Surfing the consistent waves, exploring rock pools, admiring Burgh Island views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for swimming, year-round for surfing (best swells in autumn/winter) 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bantham Barn – Stylish accommodation just minutes from the beach

Bantham Beach dazzles with its perfect combination of golden sands and adventure, especially for those seeking both relaxation and activity. This expansive beach offers crystal-clear waters where the River Avon meets the sea. Surfers love the consistent waves that make it one of Devon’s premier spots. Families appreciate the shallow waters and vast sand perfect for castle building.

At low tide, fascinating rock pools emerge filled with marine creatures waiting to be discovered. The beach sits within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with remarkable coastal walking along the South West Coast Path. I’ve spent hours mesmerized by the views across to Burgh Island that appears to float offshore. The estuary attracts numerous bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Visit the charming village of Bantham nearby for local refreshments after your beach day.

2. Beer and Lyme Bay

• 📍 Location: East Devon, nestled along the Jurassic Coast 20 minutes from Sidmouth
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏛️, beach relaxers 🏖️, seafood enthusiasts 🦞
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring fishing heritage, walking Beer Head cliff path, sampling fresh seafood
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for warmest temperatures, April-May for fewer crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mariners Hotel – Charming accommodation in a former 17th-century coaching inn

Beer captivates visitors with its authentic coastal charm, perfect for couples in their thirties seeking a mix of relaxation and culture. This picturesque fishing village cradles a stunning shingle beach within a natural cove sheltered by white limestone cliffs. The working beach still features colorful fishing boats, giving visitors a glimpse into Devon’s maritime traditions.

The sheltered position makes it perfect for swimming, while the clear waters offer excellent visibility for snorkeling. You won’t find a more peaceful spot to unwind with a good book and the sound of gentle waves. History lovers will appreciate Beer Quarry Caves, which provided limestone for St. Paul’s Cathedral. The spectacular views from the South West Coast Path atop Beer Head showcase panoramic vistas of Lyme Bay. Visit the traditional pubs and restaurants serving the day’s catch for a truly local experience.

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3. Blackpool Sands

• 📍 Location: South Devon, 3 miles southwest of Dartmouth along the stunning Heritage Coast
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury beach-goers 🧖‍♀️, swimmers 🏊‍♂️, water sports enthusiasts 🚣‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the Blue Flag waters, paddleboarding along the coastline, dining with ocean views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for warmest water temperatures, early morning or evening in July/August to avoid crowds 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Stoke Lodge Hotel – Charming countryside hotel with coastal views, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to Blackpool Sands

Blackpool Sands stuns visitors with its Mediterranean vibes right in Devon for travelers seeking quality experiences. This Blue Flag award-winning beach boasts turquoise waters and fragrant pines along its fine shingle shoreline. The crescent stretches for three-quarters of a mile, offering one of the cleanest swimming environments in the region.

The beach features excellent facilities, including Venus Café, serving locally sourced organic food, and equipment rentals for paddleboarding and kayaking that adventurous visitors will appreciate. Safety-conscious guests will feel secure with lifeguards patrolling during summer months—perfect for snorkeling along the rocky edges of what might be the most transparent sea in Britain.

For the ultimate experience, arrive early to secure a prime spot and spend the day alternating between exhilarating water activities and peaceful relaxation on the golden sand. As the day winds down, treat yourself to dinner while watching the spectacular sunset from the café’s terrace, which provides panoramic views across the Heritage Coast.

4. Branscombe

• 📍 Location: East Devon, between Sidmouth and Beer on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
• 🏆 Best For: Fossil hunters 🦕, hikers 🥾, heritage enthusiasts 🏚️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Discovering fossils along the shoreline, exploring the historic village, hiking the coastal path
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, autumn for peaceful walks and fossil hunting after storms 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Masons Arms – Traditional thatched inn dating back to the 14th century

Branscombe Beach reveals a fascinating fusion of history and nature, especially enticing for thirty-something explorers with a passion for discovery. This mile-long shingle beach sits at the foot of steep cliffs, offering rich fossil-hunting opportunities. The rust-red cliffs contrast against the blue sea, creating a stunning visual display.

The pebble shoreline gradually reveals sand at low tide, exposing fascinating rock pools and occasionally presenting fossils from the eroding cliffs. Beyond the beach lies Branscombe village with its thatched cottages, working forge, and historic mill. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking walks toward Beer Head or Sidmouth with panoramic views that I never tire of photographing. Allow time to explore both the beach and village with a stop at one of the traditional pubs serving excellent local fare.

5. Clovelly

• 📍 Location: North Devon, clinging to a 400-foot cliff 10 miles west of Bideford
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, photographers 📸, romantic getaway seekers ❤️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the cobbled streets to the harbor, visiting Clovelly Court Gardens, taking a boat trip along the coast
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June for spring blooms and fewer tourists, September for warm seas and autumn colors 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Red Lion Hotel – Historic harbourside inn with stunning sea views

Clovelly enchants visitors with its timeless beauty, especially captivating for thirty-something couples seeking Instagram-worthy backdrops and authentic experiences. This privately-owned, car-free hamlet cascades down a steep cliff to its ancient harbor. The village beach offers a tranquil retreat with crystal-clear waters where fishermen still land their catch using traditional methods.

The pebble beach provides perfect views across Bideford Bay. At low tide, a small area of sand emerges, ideal for relaxing while soaking in the historic atmosphere. Walking down through Clovelly’s steep, cobbled streets lined with flower-covered cottages makes me feel transported to another era. Stop at the visitor center to learn about the fascinating history. For a unique perspective, take a boat trip from the harbor to view the village and rugged coastline from the water.

6. Combesgate Beach and Woolacombe

• 📍 Location: North Devon, just north of Woolacombe and 30 minutes from Barnstaple
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♀️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, sunset chasers 🌅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Surfing world-class waves, exploring rock pools at low tide, walking the three-mile golden stretch
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for swimming, autumn for uncrowded surfing, winter for dramatic coastal walks 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Watersmeet Hotel – Luxury accommodation with panoramic sea views

Combesgate Beach offers a perfect playground for those who appreciate natural beauty without the crowds. This magical coastal sanctuary sits tucked between headlands just north of famous Woolacombe. The small sandy cove emerges completely at low tide, revealing intricate rock formations and crystal-clear tidal pools. The beach provides excellent surfing with smaller crowds than nearby spots. 

Adventure seekers can explore sea caves and unique geological features. As the tide recedes, fascinating rock pools become natural aquariums where I’ve spent hours discovering crabs, starfish, and anemones. Minutes away stretches the magnificent Woolacombe Beach, a three-mile expanse of golden sand consistently rated among Britain’s best. The beach’s size means finding your own space even during peak summer. The consistent Atlantic swells make it a surfer’s paradise. Time your visit to catch one of Woolacombe’s legendary sunsets.

7. Croyde

• 📍 Location: North Devon coast, 10 miles northwest of Barnstaple and 3 miles west of Woolacombe
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♂️, beach lovers 🏖️, coastal hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Catching waves at Croyde Bay, walking the South West Coast Path, exploring the charming village
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for best beach weather, autumn for less crowded surfing 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Croyde Bay Resort – Beachfront accommodations with direct access to the surf

Discover Devon’s surfing paradise, where perfect waves roll into a golden horseshoe bay. Croyde offers consistently excellent surf conditions that attract wave enthusiasts from across the UK. The expansive beach, protected by natural dunes, offers plenty of space for families to relax when the tide retreats. Walking the South West Coast Path toward Baggy Point rewards you with breathtaking cliff views and potential seal sightings. 

The village itself charms visitors with thatched cottages and friendly local pubs like The Thatch. You’ll find it hard to resist the artisan ice cream shops after a day in the sun. For maximum enjoyment, time your visit during the annual GoldCoast Oceanfest in June, when music and beach culture create the ultimate summer vibe.

8. Dartmouth

• 📍 Location: South Devon, situated at the mouth of the River Dart estuary
• 🏆 Best For: Sailing enthusiasts ⛵, history buffs 🏰, foodies 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising the River Dart, exploring Dartmouth Castle, riding the steam railway
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for pleasant weather, August for Dartmouth Royal Regatta 🚢
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Royal Castle Hotel – Historic waterfront hotel in the heart of town

Enter a vibrant harbor town where maritime heritage meets contemporary coastal living. Dartmouth captivates visitors with its colorful buildings reflecting in the bustling estuary waters. Narrow streets invite exploration, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving the freshest seafood. History comes alive at Dartmouth Castle, a medieval fortress guarding the river entrance just a short walk from town. Taking a boat trip along the River Dart offers the best views of this picturesque area. 

I particularly recommend the historic Kingswear Castle paddle steamer for an authentic experience. The Dartmouth Steam Railway provides another memorable journey as it chugs along the coastline toward Paignton. Visit during the annual Dartmouth Royal Regatta to see the harbor transformed with sailing competitions and spectacular fireworks.

9. Lynmouth Harbour and Lynton

• 📍 Location: North Devon coast, within Exmoor National Park, 20 miles east of Barnstaple
• 🏆 Best For: Romantic getaways ❤️, photographers 📸, history enthusiasts 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the cliff railway, exploring Valley of Rocks, hiking Watersmeet trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring for wildflowers, September-October for stunning autumn colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Lynton Cottage Hotel – Offering panoramic views over Lynmouth Bay

Experience the dramatic meeting of Exmoor and the ocean at these twin villages connected by an engineering marvel. Lynmouth sits at sea level with its pretty harbor, while Lynton perches 500 feet above on the cliff tops. The water-powered Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway has carried visitors between the two since 1890. The short walk from Lynton to the Valley of Rocks reveals a prehistoric landscape where wild goats navigate sheer cliff faces with surprising agility. 

Nothing compares to the tranquility of Watersmeet, where two rivers converge in a woodland gorge straight from a storybook. The National Trust tea room makes a perfect rest stop after exploring the riverside trails. Literary fans will appreciate how this landscape inspired both Wordsworth and Coleridge during their travels through the region.

10. Salcombe

• 📍 Location: South Devon, nestled in the South Hams district at the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary
• 🏆 Best For: Sailors ⛵, beach hoppers 🏖️, luxury travelers 💎
• 📸 Top Experiences: Island beach hopping, coastal sailing, exploring independent boutiques
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for beach weather, May for fewer crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Salcombe Harbour Hotel & Spa – Luxury waterfront hotel with estuary views

Escape to Devon’s most stylish coastal gem, where turquoise waters and golden beaches create a Mediterranean feel. Salcombe welcomes visitors with its perfect blend of nautical heritage and sophisticated charm. The town center buzzes with independent boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving just-caught seafood. Water taxis shuttle to South Sands for water sports and beachside dining. 

Try a sailing lesson or paddleboard tour for the full experience. The coastal path to Bolt Head offers stunning views that make every step worthwhile. During my last visit, watching the sunset from the harbor with a local gin cocktail created the perfect end to a perfect day.

11. Slapton Sands and Torcross

• 📍 Location: South Devon, in the South Hams district, 8 miles south of Dartmouth
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, nature lovers 🦢, beach walkers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the three-mile beach, exploring Slapton Ley nature reserve, visiting the Tank Memorial
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June for birdwatching, September for quiet beaches and swimming 🐦
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Tower Inn – Cozy historic inn with charming rooms, nestled in a quiet village near the nature reserve and beaches

Wander along a remarkable coastline where powerful history and natural wonders exist side by side. Slapton Sands stretches for three miles, a striking shingle beach with an extraordinary dual identity. Behind it lies Slapton Ley, the largest natural freshwater lake in southwest England. This unique habitat supports over 2,000 plant species and abundant birdlife. Walking trails wind through reedbeds and woodland with bird hides positioned strategically for wildlife spotting. 

At Torcross, the Sherman Tank Memorial commemorates Exercise Tiger, a D-Day rehearsal that ended tragically when German E-boats attacked in 1944. After exploring this poignant history, the Start Bay Inn offers outstanding seafood while you watch fishing boats return with their catch. Lucky visitors might spot dolphins playing offshore during summer months.

12. Torquay

• 📍 Location: South Devon coast, at the heart of Torbay (the “English Riviera”), 18 miles south of Exeter
• 🏆 Best For: Family holidays 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, palm tree enthusiasts 🌴, literary pilgrims 📚
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the prehistoric Kents Cavern, visiting Agatha Christie’s Greenway House, strolling along the marina
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for beach weather, December for the Christmas palm trees experience 🎄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel – Victorian splendor on the seafront where Agatha Christie spent her honeymoon

Step into the sunshine capital of Devon, where palm trees line elegant promenades along a stunning bay. Torquay lives up to its “English Riviera” nickname with a microclimate mild enough for subtropical plants to thrive year-round. White villas cascade down hillsides toward a marina filled with bobbing yachts. Follow the Agatha Christie Mile to discover locations that inspired the famous crime writer who was born here. 

For an underground adventure, Kents Cavern offers tours through spectacular limestone caves containing 40,000-year-old human remains. Families love the miniature marvel of Babbacombe Model Village and the aquatic exhibits at Living Coasts. The annual Agatha Christie Festival transforms September into a celebration of all things 1920s, complete with vintage cars along the harbor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Devon  

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Devon? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Devon attractions.

Where is the prettiest place in Devon?

Devon is home to numerous picturesque locations, but many consider Clovelly to be the prettiest place in Devon. It’s a charming village where cobbled streets wind down to the azure sea, and whitewashed cottages are adorned with colorful flowers. The tranquility and timeless beauty of this coastal gem make it a living postcard and a must-visit destination in Devon.

What is the most beautiful part of the Devon coast?

The most beautiful part of the Devon coast is arguably the area around Salcombe, known for its refined elegance and maritime splendor. The azure waters of the estuary meeting the lush, green landscapes create a harmonious blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm. It offers a serene and enriching coastal experience to visitors.

Which are the must-see Devon destinations for history enthusiasts?

Dartmouth and Lynmouth Harbour and Lynton are must-see Devon destinations for those interested in history. Dartmouth’s rich heritage and maritime traditions are encapsulated in its historic buildings and landmarks. While Lynmouth and Lynton offer poignant historical sites and memorials related to World War II. This allows visitors to delve into the past and learn about Devon’s diverse history.

Is Devon an expensive place to live?

Devon, like many tourist destinations, can vary in cost depending on several factors, including the time of year, the type of accommodation, dining preferences, and the activities you plan to do. Here’s a general overview of the costs associated with visiting Devon:

1. Accommodation: Devon offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and boutique B&Bs to budget-friendly hostels, campsites, and self-catering cottages. Naturally, prices for accommodation can be higher during peak tourist seasons, such as the summer months and school holidays.
2. Dining: Devon boasts a variety of dining options, from high-end restaurants serving gourmet meals to traditional pubs and cafes offering local dishes. Seafood, in particular, can be a highlight in coastal towns. While dining out can be pricey in upscale establishments, there are plenty of affordable eateries, especially if you venture away from the main tourist areas.
3. Attractions: Many of Devon’s natural attractions, like its beaches, moors, and coastal walks, are free to enjoy. However, entrance fees to specific attractions, such as historic homes, gardens, and theme parks, can add to your expenses.
4. Transportation: If you’re not driving, public transportation options like buses and trains are available, though they might be less frequent in more rural areas. Renting a car can give you more flexibility to explore, but it’s an added cost.
5. Activities: Activities like boat tours, surfing lessons, or horseback riding on the moors will have associated costs. However, many visitors are content with low-cost activities like hiking, beachcombing, or exploring charming villages.
6. Shopping: Devon offers unique shopping opportunities, from local crafts and produce to antiques and art. How much you spend will depend on your shopping habits.

What are the best places to experience Devon’s beautiful scenery?

Blackpool Sands and Bantham Beach are among the best places to experience Devon’s beautiful scenery. These beaches offer golden sands, clear waters, and stunning landscapes. These allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Devon and enjoy a plethora of recreational activities in picturesque settings.

Where can one experience the vibrant nightlife in Devon?

Torquay, known as the English Riviera, is the place to experience vibrant nightlife in Devon. The town’s lively streets are lined with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, each contributing to the dynamic and diverse atmosphere of the town. This makes every night a celebration of life and entertainment.

Which locations offer the best culinary experiences in Devon?

Salcombe and Torquay are popular for offering some of the best culinary experiences in Devon. Visitors can savor the fresh and delicious seafood of the region in the numerous high-end restaurants and eateries, experiencing a culinary journey through the flavors of the sea while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

What is Devon, England best known for?

Devon, located in the southwest of England, is famous for a variety of attractions, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the things Devon is best known for:

1. Coastline: Devon boasts two distinct coastlines. The North Devon coast is rugged with cliffs and sandy beaches, while the South Devon coast, or the English Riviera, has a milder climate and features towns like Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham.
2. Dartmoor and Exmoor: These are two of the UK’s national parks. Dartmoor is known for its granite tors, wild ponies, and vast moorlands, while Exmoor has a mix of moorland and woodland with a rugged coastline.
3. Cream Teas: Devon is famous for its cream teas, which traditionally consist of scones topped with clotted cream and strawberry jam, served with a pot of tea.
4. Cider: Devon has a long history of cider-making, and there are many local producers that offer a range of traditional and innovative ciders.
5. Historic Towns: Devon is home to many picturesque towns and villages, such as Totnes, Dartmouth, and Clovelly, each with its unique charm and history.
6. Jurassic Coast: While mainly located in Dorset, the eastern part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site extends into Devon. It’s renowned for its geological significance and fossil discoveries.
7. Festivals: Devon hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and arts to seafood and farming.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Devon  

Devon, with its diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culture, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From the serene beaches of Bantham and Blackpool Sands to the historic charm of Dartmouth and Lynmouth Harbour and Lynton, every corner of this county is a testament to the beautiful places in Devon. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Devon offers something for everyone.

The picturesque villages like Clovelly and Branscombe allow visitors to step back in time and explore the quaint charm and timeless beauty of traditional Devon life. The vibrant towns like Torquay and Salcombe offer a blend of luxury, entertainment, and coastal splendor. This makes every moment spent in Devon a celebration of life.

Every wave that crashes on the shores of Devon tells a story of the past, every hill that rolls under the Devon sun holds a secret of nature, and every dish that is served in the Devon eateries is a flavor of the local culture. Devon is not just a destination. It’s an experience, a journey through the scenic, historic, and culinary landscapes of England, a place where every visitor can find their own piece of paradise.