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30+ Amazing Things to do in South Devon: Cities & Nature

There are so many things to do in South Devon.

From ancient ruins to dramatic hidden coves, this part of the county has lots of tourist infrastructure, but also plenty of hidden spots where you can get away from the crowds.

There’s plenty to do for family holidays, but the coastal walks and restaurants pack a punch for adulrts.

In the summer, South Devon enjoys mild weather with plenty of sunshine (it doesn’t have the crazy heatwaves that other parts of the country do, but it’s still nice and warm!) perfect for a trip away by the seaside.

However, it’s also worth visiting South Devon out of season – you’ll still witness a beautiful landscape, plenty of indoor attractions and top-class cuisine, but there are fewer crowds!

I live in Exmouth in East Devon, just over the River Exe from South Devon, so I visit all of these spots frequently.

I used to spend a lot of time in South Devon as a child too, so I’ve been to many of the family attractions that I mention, both as a kid and as an adult with other kids in the family!

Table of Contents

Where is South Devon?

South Devon is all the way nearly at the bottom of the country.

Sitting on the south coast of the UK, it sits next to Cornwall.

South Devon encompasses the South Hams, Torbay and Teignbridge regions of Devon, although I might add a couple of entries for West Devon here as well.

Plymouth and Exeter are also kind of their own thing, but I’m going to include them in this blog post.

Although East Devon and the Jurassic Coast runs along the south coast as well, I’m going to write a separate travel guide for this region.

Here’s a map to illustrate it all better. Basically, as far as this post is concerned, South Devon runs from Dawlish Warren to Plymouth and inland a little.

Best things to do in South Devon

Walk along the west side of the exe estuary.

The Exe Estuary technically marks the border between Teignbridge and East Devon.

On the east side, you’ll find Exmouth, Lympstone and Topsham, whereas Powderham Castle, Starcross and Dawlish Warren are on the west!

You can follow the path down the western side of the Exe Estuary as it spans from near Exeter all the way down to Dawlish Warren in the south.

There’s a popular cycling and hiking route that you can take from Exeter all the way down to the coast.

Or, you can take a boat from Starcross to Exmouth.

Explore Powderham Castle

Powderham Castle is a grand stately home sitting on the banks of the River Exe.

Dating back to 1390 when it was built by Sir Philip Courtenay, Powderham Castle was (and still is!) the seat of the Earl of Devon.

It was the home of a siege in the Civil War, and has historically been one of the most important places to visit in Devon.

Nowadays, you can visit the historic rooms of the house and learn about the area’s past. There are also some beautiful gardens to explore.

Take a hot air balloon flight from Exeter

One of the most bucket-list activities that you can do in South Devon is to take a hot-air balloon flight over the Devonshire countryside.

This hot air balloon flight takes off from the city and enjoys gorgeous sweeping vistas of both the countryside and coast.

You’ll be in the sky for an hour and witness some of Devon’s best scenery from the sky.

Either enjoy the panoramic vistas for sunrise or sunset!

After landing, enjoy a champagne toast.

Have some old-fashioned family seaside fun at Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren is one of the most popular seaside resorts in South Devon.

There’s all you need for a family day out here, including Funder Park which has some great amusements for kids of all ages.

Dawlish Warren has a blue flag beach – this is a prestigious award given to some British beaches due to their excellent water quality.

You can see all of the best things to do in Dawlish and Dawlish Warren here.

Eat a traditional cream tea in Dawlish

Dawlish town is full of traditional tea rooms and British pubs.

One of my favourites is Annie’s tea house.

This friendly cafe offers sumptuous cream teas and tasty savoury meals like jacket potatoes and sandwiches.

You can even order a cream tea which comes with a pot of tea or coffee – plant-based milk included!

Visit Forest Fungi, the mushroom farm of Dawlish

Forest Fungi is a fantastic sustainable restaurant, attached to its own mushroom farm.

Famous for their breakfasts (which all include mushrooms of course!), the cafe also offers BBQ food in the evenings from Thursdays to Sundays.

Walk along the sea wall from Dawlish Warren to Teignmouth

The scenic railway line runs from Teignmouth Beach to the headland at Holcombe.

The railway spans through a tunnel through the headland at Holcombe, and it then spans from this headland to Dawlish.

You’ll enjoy gorgeous views out to the ocean and smell the salty sea air as you walk!

This is part of the South West Coastal Path.

If you don’t want to walk, you can take the South Devon railway from Dawlish Warren to Teignmouth .

This is largely thought to be one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the country, especially on a sunny day!

Find the hidden Ness Cove Beach in Shaldon

There are lots of beautiful beaches in South Devon, but Ness Beach is one of the best hidden gems!

You can reach it from Shaldon by walking down a historic smuggler’s tunnel.

When you reach the end of the tunnel, enjoy the vistas of beautiful golden sands and the epic towering cliffs.

Due to its relative isolation, it’s one of the quieter beaches even in the summer months, when other beaches in the county are packed.

Discover the curious history of Buckfast Abbey

Sitting on the edge of Dartmoor, Buckfast Abbey dates back to 1018, although it was demolished during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539.

Ultimately, a Gothic mansion house was built, although the site was purchased by French Benedictine monks in 1882; it was then ultimately reinstated as an abbey in 1902, and the church was consecrated in 1932.

Buckfast tonic wine has been brewed in the abbey since the monks took it over, and it’s become somewhat renowned for the drink!

Nowadays, visitors head to the monastery to try some of the wine and learn about its fascinating in-depth history!

Go back in time at Kent’s Cavern Prehistoric Caves

Down in Torbay, one of the best attractions is Kent’s Cavern Prehistoric Caves

These are located close to the coastal town of Torquay .

These natural caves have been part of Torbay life for 2,000 years, although they’re estimated to date back 12,500 years old, and were home to 50,000 artefacts.

It’s thought that bears, lions and mammoths once roamed the caves!

The caves have been run by the same family since 1865 and you can see them on a fascinating tour.

Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari

Fancy heading out on a boat from the seaside town of Torquay?

This Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari takes in some of the best beaches in the area, the beautiful rock formations and then heads to some of the best areas where dolphins and other marine animals frequent.

You can read more about this Seafari here.

Explore the majestic Torre Abbey

Dating back to 1196, Torre Abbey became the wealthiest monastery in Medieval England.

Like other monasteries, the abbey was closed after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries.

After 1662, the Cary family lived there and adapted the abbey as a private house.

They lived there for nearly 300 years, before the council bought the abbey and adapted it into a tourist attraction.

Nowadays, it houses exhibitions with 18th to 21st century artwork and an 800 years gallery which tells the story of the abbey.

Escape from the rain at Bygones Museum

Bygones Museum boasts over 2,000 authentic curiosities and antiquities from the last few centuries of British history.

Learn about Victorian history with a real-life, 27-tonne steam train or walk through the World War One trenches.

If you’re visiting Devon in the rain and looking for indoor attractions, this is your place!

Beach hop in Torbay

Affectionately known as “The English Riviera”, Torbay was a popular summer holiday destination in the 1960s onwards.

Nowadays, it’s

There are so many beautiful beaches around Torbay (many with palm trees!) so this stretch of coastline is perfect for enjoying golden sands against the bright blue water. Here are the best beaches in the Torbay area:

• Oddicombe Beach: Close to Torquay town centre, Oddicombe Beach is a beautiful cove with bright green plants on the cliffs either side.
• Anstey’s Cove: This breathtaking beach is located between Torbay and Babbacombe and is a stunning cove with a small shingle beach.
• Meadfoot Beach: This beautiful beach is a strip of white sand contrasting against the bright blue water and green bushes.
• Goodrington Sands: This beach is just to the west of Paignton. It’s a lovely stretch of sand with plenty of attractions, including Splashdown Quaywest water park.

Wine tasting in Torbay

This Torbay wine-tasting tour is a fantastic budget-friendly activity to do, especially if British weather gets the best of you when in Devon!

Your guide will walk you through a few wines from all over the world, with a connoisseur who knows all there is to know about the drink!

Find out more about the tasting here.

Take a spin on the famous Paignton Pier

Paignton Pier , spanning out from the main beach of the town, is one of Devon’s best family-friendly attractions.

Full of rides and amusements, this fun attraction is great for all the family.

It also boasts plenty of food outlets, including ice cream stalls and fish and chip stands.

At 240 metres, it’s the longest pier in Devon and dates back to 1879 (slightly younger than Teignmouth’s which dates back to 1867.

Soar around rides at Splashdown Quaywest, the UK’s largest outdoor waterpark

Also in Paignton is Splashdown Quaywest. This is the UK’s largest all-outdoor waterpark, with eight water slides of varying levels.

I reviewed this park this summer , and while I was a little underwhelmed, I can see how it offers family fun, especially for adrenaline chasers.

I did enjoy the spectacular views of the red cliffs from the top of the slides!

Explore National Trust Greenway, home of Agatha Christie

One of the most famous Devonian residents is the famous novelist Agatha Christie.

Close to Dartmouth, on the banks of the River Dart, you can find her manor house, which is a snapshot of 1950s life.

It was one of her eight residences, but she spent many a summer and Christmas here.

Nowadays, the building is a National Trust property, so you can explore, learn about the famous author’s life and enjoy the gorgeous river views that she once relished in.

Admire Dartmouth Castle

Greenway isn’t the only historical attraction in Dartmouth.

Dartmouth Castle dates back to the 14th century and enjoys breathtaking vistas over the coastline.

The castle historically defended the entrance to the Dart Estuary, which was always a vulnerable place in Devon that could have been invaded.

Nowadays, it’s a tourist attraction that’s run by the English Heritage. Walk around and learn about Medieval defensive history or just enjoy the incredible estuary and sea views!

Board a boat in Dartmouth and sail to Totnes

Board the Dart Explorer to get between the town and the equally impressive settlement of Totnes, enjoying some beautiful nature along the way.

The Dart Explorer takes around 90 minutes to plow the distance between the two towns.

If you want to see more of the area, you could opt for the Round Robin ticket, which includes a bus to Paignton and a train to Kingswear, which sits just on the other side of the River Dart.

Explore the ruins of Totnes Castle

Totnes Castle also has an impressive English Heritage-run castle.

Totnes Castle is a Norman motte and bailey castle that was built to defend the histoirc Saxon town.

A stone shell-keep was added later, which you can climb to the top of for breathtaking views of the town and River Dart.

It’s also worth learning about the World War Two history of the castle – you can see graffiti left on trees by prisoners of war.

Walk around Totnes, one of Devon’s most historic towns

After visiting Totnes Castle, it’s worth taking a walk around the town as well.

There are so many things to see in Totnes , including the 11th century Totnes Guildhall and the Totnes Museum.

You can also follow the Totnes Town Trail to see some of the most impressive historical buildings, or take the South Devon Railway to explore the surrounding countryside – it runs all the way to Buckfastleigh!

Taste some gin at Salcombe

After all that exploring, it might be time for a drink!

If you visit Salcombe, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some of their locally-made tipples at the Salcombe Gin Distillery .

This distillery offers tours where you can try all of their most delicious gins, plus learn a little about the business and its origins.

If you don’t fancy the full tour, just head to the bar where you can try a local gin or a wide range of other beverages. Don’t drink? Salcombe does a great alcohol-free gin!

Watersports at Salcombe Estuary

Salcombe is a beautiful harbour town that boasts both river and sea vistas.

It’s most famous for Salcombe gin, but it’s also an incredibly photogenic place with some excellent beaches and plenty of independent shops and restaurants.

Salcombe Harbour is an excellent place for watersports. With Salcombe Watersports, you can hire a paddle board or take lessons or try your hand at kayaking.

Admire the sandy beaches on a coastal walk around Hope Cove

Hope Cove is one of my favourite places in South Devon.

Sitting on the rocky coastline in the south of the county, Hope Cove boasts two beaches and sits in the heart of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) .

Explore Mouthwell Sands, which is right by the main car park in town, and enjoy the Harbour Beach which is a shorter walk away.

You can walk the South West Coast Path, one of the UK’s best walking trails, around this area – or it’s also an excellent place for a beach day!

Head out to Burgh Island from Bigbury-on-Sea

Bigbury-on-Sea is one of the best beaches in Devon and is another ideal location for paddle boarding.

However, thanks to the fact that it has bigger waves than most South Devon beaches (as they mostly face the English Channel, surfing isn’t as popular here as in North Devon!), it’s also quite a popular surfing destination!

Bigbury-on-Sea’s other main draw is it’s connected to Burgh Island, which is connected to the mainland by a small spit and is home to an Art Deco Hotel.

Do a historic walking tour around Plymouth Barbican

Plymouth Barbican is one of the most fascinating areas of the city – and

You’ll learn about the city’s connection with Sir Francis Drake , its connection to Katherine of Aragon and of course, the importance of the Mayflower Pilgrimage.

This tour will also take you to Plymouth Hoe, where you can enjoy amazing sea views of the entire of Plymouth Sound.

It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Plymouth !

Visit Plymouth gin distillery, the oldest continuously operating gin distillery in the world

I know this is the second gin distillery I’ve got on this list – but it’s worth visiting them both, trust me!

Plymouth Gin Distillery sits just back from the Barbican.

It’s the oldest continuously operating gin distillery in the world, and you can learn all about its fascinating history on a tour, which also includes information about its distilling process and a tasting.

You can book a tour via their website.

It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re spending a weekend in Plymouth !

Learn about the Mayflower steps in Plymouth

One of Plymouth’s most significant tales is that of the Mayflower Pilgrimage.

Today, you can see “The Mayflower Steps” which is allegedly where the pilgrims departed from.

However , they are actually a replica from the early 20th century, rather than the physical steps that the pilgrims descended down before boarding the Mayflower.

There is a plaque commemorating the departure of the ship and its significance.

It is worth taking a look inside the Mayflower Pilgrim Visitor Centre which is above the Tourist Information Centre just opposite the steps and is a fascinating exhibition all about the journey.

Take a Red Coat guided tour in Exeter

There’s a wonderful way to get around Devon’s other city.

Red Coat Tours are definitely the best things to do in Exeter .

Run by local guides who are really passionate about the Devon city’s history, you can choose between a Cathedral to Quay tour, a Medieval tour, a tour about the hidden areas of Exeter, a Georgian Exeter tour or many more!

Take a look at the Exeter gov website to find out more.

Red Coat Tours are completely free.

If you want to learn more about the rich history of Exeter and Devon, I recommend checking out the Royal Albert Memorial Museum .

Admire Exeter Cathedral

If you’re spending a weekend in Exeter , another attraction that you can’t miss is Exeter Cathedral .

There has been a cathedral on this site since the 7th century, although the building that you see today was built between 1258 – 1400 AD, after a bishop visited Salisbury Cathedral and was jealous that Exeter’s wasn’t as grand!

It boasts the longest uninterrupted Medieval Gothic Vaulting in the world, along with a crypt, several impressive stained glass windows, several chapels and an astronomical clock.

You can visit during a service free of charge, or if you want to look around some more, you can see it during visiting hours.

Go underground in Exeter Underground Passages

There’s an extensive labyrinth of tunnels spanning under Exeter.

These underground passages date back to Medieval times when they were used to bring clean drinking water to the city.

Nowadays, they can be visited on a guided tour.

Your guide will take you underground and detail some of Exeter’s Medieval history on the way.

Not only is it a really cool experience, but you’ll learn lots of interesting facts about Medieval Exeter as you go!

Shop in the Pannier Markets in Tavistock

There are quite a lot of things to do in Tavistock , and I think it’s a really underrated South Devon town.

One of the best parts is its beautiful pannier markets, which date back to 1105 when Tavistock got its royal charter and first gained permission to hold a market in the town.

Originally, the markets sold food. Nowadays, they’re a little different, and mainly offer gifts and other trinkets!

However, they’re set in a beautiful historic building and are the ideal place to purchase any Devon souvenirs.

Explore Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park is a bucket-list place to visit in Devon.

Although it’s kind of a region of its own, the southern part of the park is very close to the South Devon coastline.

Spanning 954 km², the park is one of the most famous and impressive open spaces in the UK. It’s also the only place you can legally wild camp in England!

Here are some of the best things to do in Dartmoor:

• explore the ancient woodland of Wistman’s Wood
• walk across the clapper bridge at Postbridge
• hike up its many tors and admire the view
• walk around Burrator Reservoir
• see some of the best waterfalls in Devon , such as Cantonteign Falls
• tour the Dartmoor Prison Museum
• enjoy countless hikes
• camp out for the night!

What is better South or North Devon?

They’re both different, and I wouldn’t say one is better than the other!

North Devon is one of the best places in the UK for surfing, with its wild Atlantic Ocean coastline.

Expect craggy cliffs with dramatic views and somewhat isolated towns and villages. It’s a great place for outdoor activities, although there are a few wet weather activities too.

South Devon, on the other hand, has golden beaches and a milder climate – which is why you’ll find palm trees here!

It also has a few more attractions – although there are plenty of things to do in North Devon too.

I’d say that North Devon is marginally better for adventurous types, and South Devon is best for families and people who want a beach holiday – but it’s worth exploring both if you can!

is North or South Devon better for beaches? 

It’s hard to say. North Devon’s beaches are more crashing and dramatic, but the weather isn’t as good. South Devon has golden sands with palm trees and generally calmer weather!

South Devon’s top attractions!

Whether you love outdoor adventures in breathtaking landscapes, top-class cuisine in fine dining or hearty British restaurants or activities for kids, South Devon is the perfect destination for a fun holiday by the coast!

See my other Devon guides!

There are so many things to do in Devon, and South Devon is just one area! Here are my other guides to different Devon regions:

• things to do in North Devon
• things to do in East Devon
• things to do in Mid Devon
• things to do in Dartmoor

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12 of the Best Places to Visit in South Devon

• Last Updated 21 March 2024

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From seaside hotspots and bougie harbour towns to historic cities and rolling rural landscapes, these are some of the very best places to visit in South Devon…

Southwest England is easily one of the best, and most popular, holiday destinations in the country. And Devon has it all! Beaches to suit all possible tastes, an epic foodie scene, gorgeous little villages, and one of England’s greatest wildernesses.

Neighbouring Cornwall might be better known as a beach holiday destination, but personally, I think I prefer Devon. I live just next-door in Dorset , so I know the whole southwest very well. And after spending the last couple of months visting nearly every corner of Devon while researching for a guidebook, I know the county better than ever!

So, I’ve popped together this guide to the most beautiful towns, greatest beaches and best places to visit on your trip to south Devon.

Get ready for beach days, cliff walks, quaint harbours, river journeys, glorious wildlife, and SO much more…

Map: Best Places to Visit in South Devon

1. dartmouth, 2. plymouth, 3. burgh island, 4. salcombe, 5. torquay & the english riviera, 7. dartmoor national park, 9. start bay, 10. teignmouth, 11. dawlish warren, 12. tamar valley aonb, top attractions in south devon – a quick list, best beaches in south devon.

For tthis post, I’m focusing on the most southern section of the county rather than the whole southern half of Devon. Exeter, Exmouth and beyond fall into ‘East Devon’ and won’t be covered here – but they’re well worth visiting too!

12 Best Places to Visit in South Devon

Spread along the west bank of the wide Dart Estuary, Dartmouth has long been a significant port. There’s a prestigious naval college, a swanky yacht marina, and a historic harbour area to discover.

Today, the town’s crooked streets and stunning old buildings house posh restaurants, cosy bars, swish art galleries, and cool boutiques. Oh, and a lot of nautical clothing shops – there’s no escaping the maritime vibes here!

One of the best things about Dartmouth is exploring by river. Take the ferry downriver to visit Dartmouth Castle , the oldest parts of which date from 1388. Next, take a leisurely cruise upriver to spot the wildlife including seals, kingfishers, wading birds and (sometimes) otters. Finally, take the ferry to Greenway , Agatha Chistie’s former holiday home, now a National Trust property.

Devon’s largest city, Plymouth has a rich maritime heritage, earning it the nickname ‘Ocean City’. Some of history’s most famous voyages set sail from the port here: including the Mayflower Pilgrims, Captain James Cook and Francis Drake .

More recently, Plymouth has been undergoing a dramatic transformation. The city was heavily bombed during WWII due to its role as a key naval port, and the hasty rebuilding left behind a city centre that tended to favour functionality over style.

But that’s all changing – thanks to trendy new waterfront revelopments around Sutton Harbour and Royal William Yard, plus an exciting new Arts Quarter . This last one is around the University area, with galleries, funky new architecture, and the lively Tavistock Place.

Top things to do in Plymouth

• Visit The Box – a fantastic new museum showcasing Plymouth’s maritime history.
• Explore the historic harbourside Barbican area and visit the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrims sailed from.
• Tour Black Friar’s Distillery – the home of Plymouth Gin and England’s oldest working gin distillery.
• Visit the National Marine Aquarium – the UK’s largest aquarium.
• Find out more in my guide to the BEST things to do in Plymouth .

You can’t skip Burgh Island when you visit south Devon – this iconic landmark is one of the best places for a mini adventure! It’s a tidal island, connected to the mainland by a strip of beach that completely dissappears at high tide.

At low tide, you can walk to Burgh Island from Bigbury-on-Sea. Or, at high tide, there’s the Sea Tractor. This unique, bizarre-looking contraption is is operated by Burgh Island Hotel; you’ll find timetables posted at the beach carpark in Bigbury-on-Sea and at the entrance to the island.

There are only a handful of buildings on Burgh Island, and no roads to speak of. This is a place to get away from it all: walk the coast path, spot wildlife, and climb the hill for views of the coast. To eat, there’s the swanky art deco Burgh Island Hotel or the 14th-century Pilchard Inn – one of England’s oldest taverns and apparently haunted by a smuggler’s ghost.

Just along the coast from Dartmouth you’ll find another sailing mecca to explore. Siting at the mouth of the serene Kingsbridge Estuary, Salcombe is one of south Devon’s most upmarket destinations.

This bougie little town – with its sheltered moorings, white sandy beaches, and fancy food scene – attracts a bit of a yachtie crowd. But there’s plenty here for everyone to enjoy.

Get ready for incredible seafood (don’t miss the Crab Shack ), epic cliff walks, and gorgeous beaches. South Sands and North Sands are closest, or take the ferry to explore the idyllic beaches around East Portlemouth on the opposite bank. Click here for my guide to the best Salcombe beaches , with instructions on how to find them. You can also take a ferry upriver to the historic market town of Kingsbridge.

The three towns clustered around the wide spread of Tor Bay earned themselves the nickname of ‘The English Riviera’ around the time of the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). With the French Riviera off limits, wealthy Georgians turned to the calm, sheltered waters of Tor Bay instead. After all, this gorgeous turquoise bay is one of the most beautiful places in Devon !

Torquay and Paignton are the two largest towns. Both have some lovely beaches and lots of nostalgic seaside vibes. If you’re looking for the classic English seaside experience, this is the place to come!

Torquay is a little more upscale, with lots of grand Victorian villas and parks. Paignton is a little more ‘cheap and cheerful’ and feels a bit run down in spots. But it has some lovely beaches (Goodrington and Broadsands in particular), plus a retro Victorian pier lined with funfair rides and arcades.

Best Things to do in the English Riviera

• Go Underground at Kents Cavern, a network of caves directly beneath Torquay.
• Take the steam train to Dartmouth .
• Walk the Agatha Christie Trail – the world-famous crime fiction writer was born in Torquay and lots of locations here appear in her novels. Or take a guided tour (from £28pp) – click here for more info .
• Hop aboard the Babbacombe Cliff Railway, a 1920s furnicular down to the red sands of Oddicombe Beach.

Brixham is also on the English Riviera, but has a very different vibe to Torquay and Paington. Colourful fishermen’s cottages are clustered onto the hillside above Brixham’s busy working harbour. This is home to one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK, so the seafood scene in Brixham is unbeatable!

You can take fishing trips and boat tours from the harbour, or take a tour of the harbourside Fish Market with a fish breakfast at the excellent Rockfish restaurant. Don’t miss the lifesize replica of the Golden Hind, Fransic Drake’s ship!

It’s not all about the south coast in Devon – there are plenty of amazing places to visit in the county’s gorgeous rural interior, too. And one of my personal favourites is Dartmoor National Park .

Honestly, I could wax lyrical about this place – but I’ll try to contain myself! It’s one of England’s last true wildernesses: a vast area of heather-strewn moors, towering granite tors (hilltop boulders) and dense forests. And mystery! Legends, folklore and ghost stories abound on Dartmoor, and amidst these dramatic landscapes its easy to start believing them.

Don’t miss the impossibly cute village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor, the ancient Bronze Age settlement at Grimspound , or the iconic Haytor Rocks – a great spot for a walk. I also love the walk along the old Princetown Railway out to King’s Tor and the historic Foggintor Quarry.

Right in the heart of rural south Devon sits Totnes, the UK’s first Transition Town and probably the most ethical town in England! It was one of the very first towns in The Transition Network , a worldwide movement through which communities aim to tackle global crises at a local level.

The result is a creative, community-minded town with one of the most independent high streets you’ll ever find. The veggie/vegan food scene is STRONG here. Don’t miss Riverford Field Kitchen for a seasonal, farm-to-fork dining experience.

There’s also a lot of history to discover – particularly the anceint Totnes Castle – as well as the serene, wildlife-rich River Dart. Totnes sits at the head of the Dart Estuary; you can take ferry rides and boat tours to Dartmouth, or hop on a kayak/SUP to explore.

Just west of Dartmouth, the wide sweep of Start Bay is one of the most beautiful spots along this stretch of coast.

Slapton Sands sits at the centre of the bay: a narrow strip of shingle beach between the sea on one side and a huge lake on the other. The lake, Slapton Ley, is surrounded by a wildlife-rich nature reserve and makes an excellent spot for a walk. You can get a fantastic view of it all from on high as you drive out of the village of Strete. Driving across the thin strip of Slapton Sands is a fun experience, too.

At the southwestern end of the bay, Start Point is a great area for hiking and adventures. Hit the coast path to glimpse the remains of South Hallsands village, washed away by a terrible storm in 1917, and to visit Start Point Lighthouse. Follow the path around the headland to reach the remote, crescent-shaped beach at Mattiscombe Sands. Chances are, you’ll have the place to yourself!

Just northeast from Torquay sits another historic seaside town: Teignmouth. There’s a grand Victorian pier, a pretty Georgian seafront, and a striking rust-coloured sandy beach.

Beyond the nostalgic beach vibes, Teignmouth also has an excellent food scene. It sits at the mouth of the River Teign (hence the imaginative name!), so is surrounded by excellent produce. There are mussel and oyster beds on the river, lots of fertile farmland, and a fantastic local fishing industry.

Just along the coast from Teignmouth, Dawlish Warren is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in south Devon.

Dwalish Warren itself is a small village known for its cheap-and-cheerful holiday parks and retro amusement park. But just outside of the town sits Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve – the perfect place to get away from it all.

The reserve is right on the mouth of the Exe Estuary, one of the most important locations for migrating birds known for its rich and varied wildlife thorughout the year. And skirting this nature reserve is an idyllic – and often almost empty – white-sand beach backed by grass-topped dunes.

Last, but definitely not least, on this list of the best places to visit in South Devon, we have the Tamar Valley Area of Natural Beauty . Just north of Plymouth, this is a rich rural landscape full of rolling valleys and picturesque woodland.

Here, history and nature collide. Though Cornwall is more famous for its mining heritage, West Devon had its share of mines – particularly around the Tamar Valley. Don’t miss the ancient stannary town of Tavistock, a beautiful little place with a great independent shopping scene, or Morewellham Quay , a living museum where you can take a ride on an underground mine train!

The Tamar Valley is also a great place for walking and biking. Try Drake’s Trail , a 21-mile cycling and walking route between Tavistock and Plymouth. You can do the whole thing, or just a section!

Below, I’ve listed a few of the top attractions dotted around South Devon. These aren’t quite ‘places to visit’ but they’re all great additions to any holiday.

• Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company – take a steam train from Paignton to Dartmouth, river cruise to Totnes, then a bus back to Paignton. You can do this ‘Round Robin’ trip in any order.
• Greenway – a grand white country manor once owned by Agatha Christie.
• Buckland Abbey – a manor house built from a 700-year-old Cistercian monastery, once home to Francis Drake.
• Saltram House – historic property near Plymouth used as a filming location for Sense and Sensibility.
• Overbeck’s Garden – beautiful clifftop gardens near Salcombe.
• The Miniature Pony Centre to meet Dartmoor’s most famous residents!
• Salcbome Gin School – distill your own bottle of gin!
• The Shops at Dartington – posh boutique shops on the Dartington Estate.
• Sandridge Barton – a vineyard near Dartmouth and the home of Sharpham Wine .

A quick round up of the best beaches to visit when you hit the south Devon coast!

• South Milton Sands
• Dawlish Warren
• Bantham Beach, near Bigbury-on-Sea (one of the south coast’s best surfing beaches)
• Blackpool Sands, near Dartmouth
• South Sands and North Sands , Salcombe
• Anstey’s Cove, Torquay
• Goodrington Beach, Paignton
• Broadsands Beach, Paignton
• Torre Abbey Sands, Torquay
• Mattiscombe Sands, Start Point (can only be reached by walking)
• Ness Cove Beach, Teignmouth
• Wembury Beach, near Plymouth

Best Places to Visit in Devon

50 Unique Things to do in Dorset

Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of England

Best Places to Vist in South England

Are there any more great places to visit in South Devon that I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments!

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Must-see attractions in South Devon

South Devon

High on Devon’s must-see list, the captivating summer home of crime writer Agatha Christie sits beside the placid River Dart. Part-guided tours allow you…

Start Point Lighthouse

Sitting on one of England's most exposed peninsulas, the 815,000 candela beam of this bright-white lighthouse can be seen for 25 nautical miles. Tours (on…

Paignton Zoo

This innovative, 32-hectare zoo is by far and away Paignton's top draw. Spacious enclosures recreate habitats from savannah and wetland to tropical forest…

Coleton Fishacre

For an evocative glimpse of jazz-age glamour, drop by the former home of the D'Oyly Carte family of theatre impresarios. Built in the 1920s, its faultless…

An Aladdin's cave of curios, Edwardian country house Overbeck’s crowns the cliffs at Salcombe's estuary mouth. It's set in 3 hectares of lush, subtropical…

Kents Cavern

Expect stalactites to drip water on your head and temperatures to dip to 14°C in these atmospheric caves. Hour-long guided tours lead through a maze of…

Babbacombe Model Village

There are 413 tiny buildings, inhabited by 13,160 even tinier people, on display at this Lilliputian attraction, the epitome of English eccentricity…

South Sands

Although it gets busy in the summer holidays, South Sands has immense charm. It's something to do with the broad beach (at low tide), the mini watersports…

Maritime Museum

Here be treasure: the highlight of the hauls from local shipwrecks are the 500 glittering Moroccan gold dinars from the Salcombe Cannon wreck site, dating…

Salcombe's best high-tide beach, sand-filled Mill Bay sits across the water on the east side of the estuary. It's reached by either walking the lane south…

Berry Pomeroy Castle

Two miles east of Totnes, this ruined castle was originally built by the feudal Pomeroys in the 15th century. Within the walls is a second stronghold, a…

Bantham Beach

Bantham is, arguably, South Devon's finest low-tide beach. Set at the mouth of the River Avon, this dune-backed sweep of sand offers a cool cafe, surf…

Dartington Estate

Henry VIII gave this pastoral 324-hectare estate to two of his wives (Catherines Howard and Parr). For many years it was home to the town's art college;…

Burgh Island

A slanting 10-hectare chunk of grass-topped rock, tidal Burgh Island is connected to Bigbury-on-Sea by a stretch of sand at low tide. At high water the…

Dartmouth Castle

Discover maze-like passages, atmospheric guardrooms and great views from the battlements of this picturesque castle. The best way to arrive is via the…

Slapton Ley

Slapton Ley's broad sweep of water is ringed by a nature reserve and fringed by reed beds and woods. A 1.75-mile trail skirts the ley, crossing the reed…

Sherman Tank

Wave-dashed as they are today, Slapton Sands have an even more dramatic past. During WWII, thousands of American servicemen trained here for D-Day using…

Cockington Country Park

At 182 hectares, Cockington provides a welcome oasis of calm, green space, just a mile from Torquay's seafront bustle. Walking trails wind through fields,…

Dawlish Warren

Clinging to the coast at the mouth of the River Exe, a curling sand spit reaches far out into the water, offering exhilarating views up the river and out…

South Hallsands

The shells of a handful of houses clinging to the cliff at South Hallsands are the remains of a thriving fishing village. In 1917 a severe storm literally…

Britannia Royal Naval College

The imposing building crowning the hills above Dartmouth was built in 1905 and is where the Royal Navy still trains all its officers. Guides lead you…

Golden Hind

Devon-born explorer Sir Francis Drake carried out a treasure-seeking circumnavigation of the globe aboard the Golden Hind in the late 1500s. This full…

Slapton Sands

The name is misleading: Slapton Sands is actually a spectacular pebble ridge that's 3 miles long. You can find solitude here on even the busiest days. It…

Torquay Museum

The collection at Torquay's town museum is eclectic, taking in everything from samurai suits of armour to Egyptian mummies and taxidermied butterflies…

Teignmouth & Shaldon Museum

It's as far from a fusty old museum as you can get, with engaging exhibits filling a stylish new building. Step into a Victorian bathing machine, heft a…

Dartmouth Museum

An eclectic collection of costumes, swords, ships in bottles and vintage toys, plus evocative WWII exhibits explaining how the area was a mustering point…

Totnes Castle

High on a hilltop above town, Totnes' castle is among the best-preserved examples of a Norman 'motte and bailey' castle (a round keep sitting on a raised…

Dartmouth's Butterwalk is a row of ancient timber-framed buildings that lean at an improbable angle. Despite looking as though they could collapse at any…

Cookworthy Museum of Rural Life

An engaging collection of school desks, cooking ranges, wagons and ploughs, plus a particularly fine photographic archive.

Torre Abbey Gardens

Built in 1196, this impressive abbey is a setting for arts and cultural events, but it's the wonderful gardens that are of most interest – particularly to…

Elizabethan Garden

Signs in this tiny walled garden cast light on 16th-century medical thinking, outlining which herbs were used to cure which ailment: soapwort for syphilis…

Brixham Heritage Museum

An eclectic collection of exhibits explores the town's salty history, majoring in sailboats, smuggling, shipbuilding and sea rescues. There are…

Bayard's Cove

It's worth tracking down Dartmouth's quaintly cobbled Bayard's Cove, the quay from which the Pilgrim Fathers set sail to America, having put into…

Parts of this atmospheric structure were once the kitchens of the town's Norman priory; look out for cells, ceremonial robes and an elaborate council…

Oddicombe Beach

One of a string of sand-and-shingle beaches, Oddicombe sits at the foot of the Babbacombe Cliff Railway.

Anstey's Cove

A pocket-sized beach that's popular with swimmers, thanks to a picturesque rock ridge and pinnacle, and a cheerful beach cafe.

Totnes Fashion & Textiles Museum

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

Torre Abbey Sands

A central, tidal beach, beloved by early-morning bathers.

Paignton Pier

To indulge in pure holiday nostalgia, head to this grand old Victorian pier where you can parade along the long wooden deck, jump in a dodgem, bounce…

North Sands

Compact North Sands lies a short walk or drive (1.5 miles) south along Cliff Rd from the centre of Salcombe (on the same side of the estuary as the town)…

More destinations you need to see

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Things to do in south devon.

When you see how much there is to see and do in South Devon, it won’t be at all surprising that it has been one of the most popular holiday destinations since the Victorian era. If you’re thinking of Devon for your next getaway, here is the lowdown on South Devon.

South Devon is a huge area comprising countryside and coast, so is a good option for those who want to enjoy a bit of both. The region includes the famous English Riviera, the beautiful South Hams, the city of Plymouth and a host of quirky market towns, chocolate box villages and award-winning beaches. So, as you can imagine, there is always something to see and do but we’ve pulled a couple of ideas together to help you plan the perfect visit.

For the adrenaline junkies

In the summer months, head to the coast and take your pick from the array of watersports on offer. Whether you want to try your hand at surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking or jumping on a jet ski, you can in South Devon. In Dartmouth, the River Dart is a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking, while the English Riviera offers sailing and surfing opportunities and places like Noss Mayo, Salcombe and Hope Cove are loved by surfers and paddle boarders alike. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or want to challenge yourself to something new, you can find tuition, guided sessions and equipment hire all over the region during the summer, so you don’t even need to bring your own boards with you!

It isn’t all surfing and paddleboarding, if you want to get the heart pumping and take on some waves without jumping on a board, head to Splashdown Quaywest  in Paignton, the UK’s largest outdoor water park. Whatever your age or ability, there are rides for everyone, including the Devil’s Drop which is only for the biggest thrill seekers!

Or for those of you who would rather stay dry, Devon’s largest family theme park can be found on the outskirts of Dartmouth. Woodlands Family Theme Park  features rides, a zoo, falconry displays, workshops and a host of other activities, including additional themed ones for the school holidays.

For a range of adventure activities, check out River Dart Country Park . Packed with outdoor fun for all ages, you can test your skills at everything from high ropes, archery, cycling and everything else you can think of all suited for a range of abilities and ages. Whether you want to take on an assault course, get out on the river or play in the purpose built play area.

Perhaps for you the best way to get the adrenaline flowing is by having a flutter on the horses, in which case, keep your eyes on the racing programme at Newton Abbot Racecourse.   This year, from April onwards, there will be 18 thrilling fixtures with races taking place over the weekend, during the week and in the evenings, so you can visit whenever fits during your break. There are even a selection of family friendly events too.

For the animal lovers

Not only is South Devon incredibly dog friendly, with a host of places you and your pets can stay and beaches that are happy for your dogs to join you ( click here to find out more ) it’s also a haven for those that love animals.

Of course, perhaps the most famous of the region’s animal attractions is Paignton Zoo  which is celebrating its 100 th anniversary this year. As you can imagine, there will be a whole host of additional things to help you celebrate. It won’t be any surprise to you that Paignton Zoo is known as one of Britain’s best zoos, there are loads of animal residents for you to befriend including red pandas, giraffes and more!

Alternatively, for those of you travelling nearer Dartmoor National Park, there is Dartmoor Zoo.  Set in 33 acres of woodland and home to the biggest variety of big cats in the South West, as well as a wide range of exotic creatures you won’t learn about anywhere else!

Or for something a little different, head to Buckfastleigh where you can get up close and personal with some adorable otters and some incredibly beautiful butterflies at Otters and Butterflies.  This otter sanctuary and butterfly house allows you to experience a rainforest atmosphere and join in at feeding times for the otters, most of which have been rescued. You can even sponsor an otter – which makes a lovely gift for the animal lover in your life!

Younger children and those looking for a gentler day out must visit Pennywell Farm.  This family friendly farm park has everything you could need for a day out, it’s the biggest activity farm in the South West and features over 150 animals, rides, activities and just about everything else you can think of. Hand-feed red deer, watch the world-famous mini pig racing, cuddle a guinea pig and more right here! If you visit during the school holidays, there are a host of additional things to do on site, including performances and trails to keep the whole family entertained.

For the history buffs

Did you know one of the oldest human fossils in Europe was found in Torquay? Or that one of the most haunted castles in England is in the region? Well, now you do! There is an abundance of history and heritage to explore in South Devon with everything from stone age caves to castles and steam trains.

Two of the best-known heritage attractions are Berry Pomeroy Castle (the aforementioned haunted castle) and Dartmouth Castle, which was the one-time home of the town’s mayor, who also happened to do a bit of privateering on the side. Perhaps the most famous of South Devon’s exports is the author Agatha Christie. Known as the queen of crime, she remains one of the most prolific female authors of all time. Not only can you follow the Agatha Christie mile around her home town of Torquay but also visit places like Torre Abbey ,  where you will find a poison garden dedicated to the lady herself.

That’s not the only reason to visit Torre Abbey – it is after all one of the oldest buildings in the town and is set within 18 acres of parkland. It is home to a wide selection of art and antiques and regularly hosts exhibitions among other events.  Another spot for Christie fans is her holiday home, Greenway House , which can be found on the outskirts of Brixham. During the annual Agatha Christie Festival, you can find screenings of some of the best loved Poirot adaptations and during the rest of the year, you can see the home as the family left it and of course, explore the beautiful gardens. It is now managed by the National Trust, so entry is free for members.

For something a bit different, head underground and discover the wonders of Kents Cavern . Spanning the Ice Age to the Victorians, there is plenty to unpack here, including the skulls of two stone age bears that once roamed the region. A 40,000-year-old human fossil was also discovered here – it’s a truly fascinating place. Not only that but at certain times of year you can enjoy special events, like film screenings, Easter egg hunts and more.

Or why not jump on board a steam train for a picturesque journey around South Devon? Head to Buckfastleigh and book a trip with South Devon Railway . It’s a fun and interesting way to experience the region’s beauty spots, all from a carriage of a heritage steam train!

For the shoppers

South Devon is full of lovely shopping centres and high streets where you can find a diverse mix of shops, from high street favourites to independent gems.

For the chance to grab some unique gifts, check out the Cider Press Centre, which is part of the Dartington Estate. Full of vibrant and eclectic local shops where you can find locally sourced products and even have a go at making your own gin at the Devon Gin School.  While you’re here, you can explore the whole of the Dartington Estate with its listed gardens and medieval manor house and of course, head into the Bohemian town of Totnes. With a castle, regular markets (including one where everyone is in period dress) and quirky shops, it is well worth a visit.

China Blue in Totnes is the place to go for those looking for a unique mix of shopping and creativity. Not only do you have the largest range of pottery in the South West to choose from but you also have the chance to create a truly unique gift by painting your own! That’s not all, you can also have a go at pot throwing or joining in other creative activities – there is something for the whole family here.

Another place to shop for unique gifts is House of Marbles  – alongside their popular museum where you can learn more about the workings of Teign Valley Glass, you can also shop for toys, games and other gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Or for more traditional shopping experience, head to Torquay’s Fleet Walk Shopping.  Full of high street fashion and eateries, not far from the famous harbour, a shopping trip here makes a lovely addition to stays in Torquay.

For those looking for something a bit different

If you’re looking for something different while on holiday, South Devon provides – it is home to Babbacombe Model Village  which is famous for its miniature models of well-known places, including the Bake Off tent!

Or why not experience the life of the rich and famous by chartering a yacht with Above Decks? You’re welcomed with a glass of bubbles and then the day is yours! If relaxation sounds good to you, you could always book a wellness retreat with the Sharpham Trust.  They have a variety of mindfulness and wellness retreats across several venues all on the same site, so you can pick something that really helps you reinvigorate. 

There’s so much more we could tell you about South Devon, if you want to find out more about what there is to do in the region and book somewhere to stay for your staycation this year, click here.

See more South Devon

South Devon

Full of activities and attractions, it’s the perfect place for romantic getaways, sightseeing or keeping the kids entertained. This area of Devon offers a beautiful coastline and expansive countryside giving you unspoilt greenery, gorgeous beaches and picturesque villages.

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25 best things to do in south devon for a great day out [2024].

South Devon, home to the South Devon Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is one of the most enchanting parts of Devon, if not the UK.

If you’re looking to visit amazing beaches, swim and surf in crystal clear waters, and hike along the rugged cliffs of the southwest coast path, then South Devon is the place to do it. 

From beaches and cute villages to vineyards and remote islands, here are the 25 best things to do in South Devon for a great day out!

This article is written by Christina in the Clouds .

1. Kingsbridge 

Address: 1 Promenade, Kingsbridge TQ7 1JD

Kingsbridge is a sweet market town that lies on the Kingsbridge Estuary.

Come here just before sunset to get the best views of the estuary – the tide is high and the water is still and everything feels so peaceful.

If you like to enjoy your sunsets with a glass of wine or a pint of beer, head to The Crabshell Inn , a delightful little pub located right next to the water.

2. Salcombe Harbour 

Address: Salcombe Shadycombe Car Park 

Salcombe is probably one of the most beautiful towns in South Devon.

In fact, it’s probably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Devon , full stop.

The streets are lined with multicoloured buildings and independent/boutique stores ready for you to browse.

I’d highly recommend coming here for a spot of lunch in one of the waterside pubs ( The Ferry Inn is my personal fave), followed by ice cream from Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream . 

There are three main car parks in Salcombe but I found Shadycombe (address above) to be the easiest to access. 

3. Burgh Island 

Address: Unnamed Road, Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge TQ7 4AS

Burgh Island is a small tidal island located in the town of Bigbury-On-Sea.

On the island, you can find beautiful golden sand and a secret (not so secret) natural mermaid pool.

In low tide, you can get over to the island on foot and in high tide, you can get over to the island via a sea tractor (which also happens to be one of the worlds first).

However, this stops running early evening so make sure you get your timings right!

4. Snapes Point 

Address: Snapes Point National Trust Car Park, Salcombe TQ8 8NQ

Snapes Point is the place to come for unrivalled 360 views of the Kingsbridge Estuary, the rolling hills of Devon and the town of Salcombe itself.

Snapes Point is also a huge hit with the locals, so you know it’s a spot worth visiting. 

The walk from the car park to the viewpoint is an easy (and very scenic) twenty-minute walk.

Although be warned, you might encounter a sheep traffic jam which could slow you down ever so slightly. 

5. Gara Rock 

Address: Salcombe TQ8 8FA

Gara Rock Beach (or Seacombe Sands as it’s sometimes known) has to be my favourite spot in all of South Devon, and I was lucky enough to experience this place all to myself. 

It’s a small, and pristine cove located at the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary. 

To get to the beach, simply park up in the free parking spot close to Gara Rock Hotel and then follow signs for ‘West Prawle’.

It shouldn’t take you longer than twenty minutes to reach the beach. 

6. Start Point Lighthouse 

Address: Stokenham, Kingsbridge TQ7 2ET

Start Point Lighthouse has been guiding ships through the English Channel since 1837.

Start Point is one of the most exposed headlands in all of England, which makes for some pretty dramatic Landscapes.

The best bit? It’s a great place to watch the sunrise.

So, if you’re an early riser make sure you head to Start Point to experience a pretty epic view of the sun rising over the horizon. 

7. Mill Bay 

Address: 2 Devon Rd, Salcombe TQ8 8PU

When I first arrived at this stunning bay, I was immediately transported back to Thailand.

The golden sand, the emerald green water and all the trees growing on the rock gave it that real Thailand feel.

There are a few ways of getting to Mill Bay: drive directly to the onsite National Trust car park, catch a water taxi from Salcombe Harbour or hike over from Gara Rock (mentioned above). 

8. South Devon Railway

Address: The Railway Station, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0DZ

Take a ride on the famous South Devon steam train.

The original line was first opened in 1872. and was used for the transporting of goods, such as coal, wool and cider running until 1962.

Today, it now operates solely as a tourist attraction.

The line runs for 14 miles from Buckfastleigh to Totnes, through the gorgeous River Dart Valley, and t he experience aims to transport you back in time by recreating train travel between the golden era of the 1930s to the 1960s.

The South Devon Railway is great fun for all the family and suitable for all ages. 

9. Hope Cove

Address: Hope Cove, Kingsbridge TQ7 3HN

The village of Hope Cove is home to two gorgeous little beaches (Mouthwell Sands and Harbour Beach) and famously featured on the BBC hit drama “The Coroner”.

This location is a great place to come if you have a family.

Spend your day at the beach making sandcastles and follow it up with a spot of lunch at the village pub, Hope & Anchor , which has great views of the water. 

Head straight here and park up in one of the villages, or hike here from Bolberry Down which will take you roughly 45 minutes to complete. 

10. Sharpham Vineyard

Address: Sharpham Estate, Totnes TQ9 7UT

No, you don’t have to travel all the way to the vineyards of Tuscany or Napa Valley, we have it all right here on our doorstep in South Devon.

Sharpham Vineyard is a producer of classic British wines and offers guided tours and tasting sessions, with prices starting at as little as £15 per person.

If the wine tasting wasn’t enough, they also have an onsite cheese dairy and you can purchase some of their award-winning cheese for yourself. Delicious!

11. Soar Mill Cove

Address: Kingsbridge TQ7 3EN

Only accessible by foot or boat, this small sandy inlet is the perfect place to come to spot an abundance of wildlife and/or relax with a good book.

To get here, head to Bolberry Down National Trust Car park and then take the 20-30 minute downhill walk to the cove.

You can walk directly onto the beach as well as hike up on the cliffs beside the beach to get incredible views of the cove. 

After your hike, be sure to stop off at Soar Mill Cove Hotel for a quick coffee. 

12. Berry Head Nature Reserve 

Address: Gillard Rd, Brixham TQ5 9AP

Berry Head is an internationally acclaimed heritage site and an area of conservation.

It’s home to both stunning wildlife and fascinating history.

Come here to enjoy incredible coastal walks, explore the Napoleonic War fortifications or spot some of the impressive wildlife. 

Hungry after all that activity, make sure to grab some coffee and cake from the award-winning Guardhouse Café .

13. Thurlestone Beach

Address: 5 Thurlestone Rock, Thurlestone Sands, Kingsbridge TQ7 3JY

Thurlestone was another one of my South Devon favourites.

It’s such a peaceful and relaxing place and its natural beauty is utterly charming, so much so it’s won an award from the Marine Conservation Society thanks to its crystal clear waters. 

Thurlestone is the ideal spot to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds.

I’d recommend coming here for a beachside picnic.

14. Dittisham 

Address: Dittisham, Dartmouth TQ6 0EU

Just a stone’s throw (short ferry ride) from Dartmouth is the village of Dittisham.

This picturesque village is lined with multicoloured cottages and small fishing boats that make you feel as though you’ve stepped inside a painting.

Head to Anchorstone Café on the waterfront for some locally caught, fresh seafood. 

15. Bantham Beach

Address: Bantham, Kingsbridge TQ7 3AN

If you love sunsets and sand dunes then Bantham Beach is one of the best things to do in South Devon for you.

Bantham Beach is one of the best places in all of South Devon to watch the sun go down and to play amongst the sand dunes.

Not only that, but it’s also a blue flag beach so you know it’s going to be incredible. 

Fancy trying your hand at surfing or paddle boarding? Bantham is the place to do it.

You can head to Bantham Surfing Academy to find out more.

Want to get those steps in?

Then why not walk from Thurlestone Beach to Bantham and take in some gorgeous coastal views? 

16. Mattiscombe Sands 

Visit one of South Devon’s most secluded beaches with a trip to Mattiscombe Sands.

The water is a gorgeous turquoise blue, and the beach itself is home to an array of wildlife.

If you’re lucky you might get to share the stretch of sand with a family of cute grey seals.

Mattiscombe is known for being quite difficult to access, with a short but steep and slippery walk down to the bay, so be prepared for the challenge!

Mattiscombe is close to Start Point Lighthouse, so kill two birds with one stone and visit them both on the same trip.

17. Dartmouth Castle

Address: ​​Castle Rd, Dartmouth TQ6 0JN

Combine coastal walks and history with a trip to Dartmouth Castle .

The castle has guarded the entrance of the Dart Estuary for over 600 years and offers incredible views of the sea.

Visit the castle tea rooms and take a ride on the Dartmouth Castle ferry for the ultimate experience. 

If you want to walk around the castle make sure you book your visit here .

18. Hallsands 

Address – Kingsbridge TQ7 2EY

Both a short walk (20 minutes) and a short drive (six minutes) from Start Point is Hallsands Beach.

Hallsands is a beautiful shingle beach (and another of my favourites!).

The waves here are loud and strong so it’s the perfect place to relax in the morning and listen to the ocean crash along the shore.

Hallsands is also such a great starting point for some of the best walks of the southwest coast path. 

19. Dartmouth Harbour

Address: Dartmouth TQ6 9PT

Dartmouth Harbour is a wonderful natural port lined with an array of restaurants, pubs and cafes.

Make sure you stop here for a spot of lunch or a quick coffee to admire the stunning views and the cute fishing boats. 

20. Greenway House

Address: Kingswear, Brixham TQ5 0ES

The previous home of one of the world’s best-selling authors, and legendary crime writer, Agatha Christie, Greenway House is one of the best things to do in South Devon.

Christie once described Greenway House as “the loveliest place in the world”, and if that’s not a good enough reason to visit there, then I don’t know what is.

Greenway House is now run by the National Trust so make sure you book in advance to secure a timeslot. 

21. Sugary Cove 

Address: S W Coast Path, Dartmouth TQ6 0JN

Just a short walk from Dartmouth Castle is the hidden gem that is Sugary Cove.

(What a great name!)

The cove is quiet and secluded, so you’ll most likely have this beautiful place all to yourself.

The walk down to the cove is quite steep so probably not suitable for those with young children and the cove also disappears during high tide, so make sure to plan for that.

22. Noss Mayo

Address: Noss Mayo, Plymouth PL8 1EW

Noss Mayo is a quaint village tucked away on the southern bank of the River Yelm.

You can either come here for a quiet pub lunch (there are only two in the village!) or hike the coast path and visit the secret Cellars and Warren beaches. 

23. Royal Citadel 

Address: Royal Citadel Plymouth, Lambhay Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PD

The Royal Citadel is an impressive 17th Century fortress built to protect the coast from Dutch Invaders.

What’s even more impressive is the fact that the Citadel is still in use by the British military today.

You can book a guided tour of the fortress, but be warned, as it’s still in use you could have your trip cancelled at a moment’s notice. 

If that happens, don’t fear, because The Royal Citadel is located in the centre of Plymouth, meaning that there are still plenty of other activities for you to do.

24. Bygones 

Address: Fore St, St Marychurch, Torquay TQ1 4PR

Fancy taking a trip back to Victorian times?

Well, you can do exactly that at Bygones .

Bygones is a life-sized Victorian street complete with cobbled streets and original signs from the Victorian Era.

Wander through the streets and take a peek inside the fifteen shops and the nine period rooms. 

The street is bursting with colour and entertainment, making it fun for all the family. 

25. Slapton Sands & Torcross Beach 

Address: At The Beach, Torcross TQ7 2T

Despite having two separate names, Slapton Sands and Torcross are essentially the same beach. 

If you’re a lover of watersports then this spot is for you.

The water is clear and calm, creating perfect conditions for kayakers, paddleboarders and swimmers.

And if you’re lucky you’ll be able to spot an abundance of wildlife, from seals to dolphins to shoals of mackerel. 

Unlike a lot of the beaches in Devon, Slapton and Torcross have a few beachside cafes close to the shore.

So grab a coffee and walk along the water, or enjoy a pint as you’re watching the sun go down.

You won’t regret it!

So there you have it: the 25 best things to do in South Devon for a great day out!

Which of these things to do in South Devon are you going to try out first?

Please let me know in the comments below!

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10 Things to Do in South Devon That Will Amaze You

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When you think about England, you could be forgiven for associating this beautiful, historic country with London, the idyllic rural villages around the Cotswolds or perhaps the ancient ruins at Stonehenge. However, if you have read many of our other posts associated with England, you will know that we try to focus on some of the “lesser known” destinations that we still think should be on everyone’s radar…this post is no different! Welcome to the best things to do in South Devon!

Located in the south-west corner of England just north of Cornwall, Devon is a county that is frequently left out of the limelight, primarily because it doesn’t have those high-profile attractions or cities that everyone immediately associates with the UK.

But don’t let that convince you to stay away from this area…in fact, we would argue that this should intrigue you to explore and after reading this post, we hope that you will have a few ideas as to the best spots worth experiencing in the southern part of the county.

From historic castles to spectacular waterfalls, from quaint seaside villages to delicious local cuisine, South Devon is home to pretty much everything you could wish for in a perfect vacation spot.

The iconic English Riviera is the focal point of South Devon, primarily renowned as such because of the direct comparison with the more infamous “French Riviera”. However, the collection of seaside towns featuring the likes of Torquay, Brixham, and Paignton are known locally as Torbay.

But as you will see, South Devon expands much further than just the coastal towns, so let’s take a look at some of the best attractions and experiences that you cannot afford to miss!

Torquay is undoubtedly the heartbeat of South Devon with a vibrant seafront, gorgeous marina and a myriad of shops and restaurants that will leave you with plenty to experience during your visit.

Take a stroll up the main street to enjoy a little retail therapy while visiting Devon or perhaps you prefer to admire the collection of luxury yachts and fishing vessels that are docked in the marina.

Living Coasts is a zoo and sea life aquarium located along the seafront, offering an amazing experience with nature while admiring the spectacular views overlooking the bay. For those of you that are intrigued by the prospect of heading out to sea, there are plenty of daily excursions available, ranging from fishing trips to a cruise that takes you across the bay to the nearby coastal town of Brixham.

We highly recommend this not only because of the awesome cruise but also because Brixham is another town that we recommend visiting while experiencing South Devon. However, for the history buffs visiting Torquay, head over to Torre Abbey that dates back to 1196 when it was originally founded as a monastery. Today, it is renowned as the best preserved medieval monastery in Devon and Cornwall.

Back in the heart of Torquay, take a short stroll along the seafront before arriving at Abbey Park to test your golfing skills with a leisurely round of pitch and putt or perhaps enjoying the locals showcasing their crown green bowling skills.

The fishing town of Brixham epitomizes the beauty throughout South Devon. If you choose to follow our above recommendation and hop on the cruise from Torquay, you will enjoy the ultimate arrival in Brixham because it’s the best way to appreciate the overall appearance of this town.

As you approach from the bay, you cannot help but admire the local residential areas scattered across the landscape, while the focal point is undoubtedly the harbor housing the local fishing vessels.

At the heart of Brixham’s fishing harbor is one of only two true replicas of the Golden Hind ship, recognized as the first ship to circumnavigate the globe courtesy of captain Sir Francis Drake.

Your adventure exploring Brixham begins the moment you step off the boat (or car if you choose to drive into town) and with a plethora of local shops and restaurants to choose from, this is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy lunch while interacting with locals who will certainly be happy to provide recommendations on the best things to do there.

Visitors to Brixham will be impressed by the selection of local Fish and Chip shops. Just like a cream tea is a staple for Devon and Cornwall, I would highly recommend sampling the local fish and chips!

There is nothing quite like finding the best local spot (again, interact with the locals and they will point you in the right direction) and enjoying the typical British meal while exploring Brixham town center.

From the quaint and quirky to the family fun activities we all associate with a traditional British holiday, Teignmouth is a great spot worth visiting to experience a little bit of everything. During our recent trip to Devon, we made a quick trip to Teignmouth to experience the seafront and the River Teign estuary.

Take a walk along the beach to enjoy the gorgeous sands or try out your luck inside one of the arcades before relaxing with a game of crazy golf. All of this and much more can be experienced directly on the promenade.

Further inland, enjoy gorgeous historic architecture with a myriad of Georgian inspired buildings while those looking to sample local cuisine will be faced with a destination gaining a reputation for having a great gourmet selection.

“The Taste of the Teign food trail” offers visitors and locals alike the opportunity to sample “world-renowned mussel and oyster beds” along with local berry farms and craft breweries.

Babbacombe Bay

When it comes to idyllic landscapes, there are not many spots that offer more spectacular views than those available at Babbacombe Bay. Just a few miles along the coast from Torquay, Babbacombe is the perfect place to experience if you are looking for a tranquil setting yet still offering plenty of things to do.

Renowned as the “jewel in the crown of the English Riviera,” Babbacombe perfectly represents everything there is to love about South Devon. The history of Babbacombe suggests that this has always been a sought-after beach resort and by the end of the 19th-century, it established itself as “a classy Victorian holiday destination.”

Aside from the spectacular views across the bay, Babbacombe is known for the model village full of intricate details and a fun-filled experience for all the family.

The Babbacombe Cliff Railway is another iconic attraction, particularly given its history dates back over 90 years and offers the perfect way to reach those gorgeous beaches without having to worry about hauling your beach gear up and down the steep cliffs.

When it comes to places to eat, there are several cafes in Babbacombe that offer some of the best lunch options across South Devon.

The Cliff Railway Cafe has plenty of outdoor seating, offering majestic views across the bay while Babbacombe Bay Cafe is perhaps our favorite choice, with a variety of awesome baguettes, warm meals and much more to choose from!

The historic market town of Totnes is a place you cannot afford to miss when exploring South Devon. Totnes Castle is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional Norman motte and bailey castle and is definitely worth experiencing when you visit this part of the county.

The main street that runs through the heart of Totnes is a shoppers paradise, with plenty of local boutique establishments and brand name stores to explore.

Be sure you schedule your visit to Totnes on market day (Fridays and Saturdays) to experience the weekly market held in the Civic Hall Square. An Elizabethan market is also held every Tuesday morning and visitors can enjoy locals wearing their period attire.

As you leave (or when you arrive) Totnes, be sure to check out the views across the River Dart. You never know what wildlife you will spot and there are plenty of boats always meandering their way through the channel.

When it comes to South Devon being renowned as the English Riviera, the beautiful town of Dartmouth is surely one of the main reasons for this recognition.

Whether you arrive in Dartmouth on board a cruise from Torquay or other nearby coastal town or perhaps you hop on the car ferry for the short ride across the River Dart, the Meditteranean style appearance of the town is what immediately captures your attention.

Dartmouth has a long history with the Royal Navy, primarily because of the naval college located just outside the town center. Officers have been trained here since 1863, indicative of the history throughout this part of South Devon.

The scenic river location of Dartmouth is perhaps the primary reason why so many visitors explore this area but the moment you step off the promenade, you have the opportunity to explore art galleries, museums, local shops and much more. There certainly isn’t a shortage of things to do in this coastal town!

Canonteign Falls

Ready to experience one of England’s highest waterfalls? That’s right, South Devon is home to Canonteign Falls, a 220-feet waterfall that is located among a forested landscape and ready for adventure seekers to explore.

For a small admission fee, visitors can enjoy a short hike through the heart of the Teign Valley and Dartmouth National Park before arriving at the pièce de résistance, Canonteign Falls!

Several hiking trails are available at Canonteign Falls but the most popular leads visitors through the bluebell woods and up the 70-meter waterfall until you reach the summit and experience epic views across South Devon.

The magical Victorian fern garden can be found around halfway through the hike and offers a unique collection of ferns that create a relaxing ambiance for visitors to enjoy before continuing on the adventure through the wooded area.

An abundance of flora and fauna can be enjoyed throughout your visit to Canonteign Falls and you can spend a few minutes inside the gift shop following your visit to find something that will remind you of your experience.

For us, the memories are the perfect tonic to remind us that a return visit is in order!

Idyllic, quaint, picturesque and in many ways, perfection! This is really the best way to describe the charming village of Cockington just a few miles from Torquay.

The village is relatively small with just a few local gift shops and cafes but when it comes to inherent beauty across South Devon, there are not many spots more breathtaking than Cockington.

Many villages lay claim to being picturesque, but the delightful Devon village of Cockington is the real deal. (Englishriviera.co.uk)

Driving to Cockington could be described as a challenging experience, particularly if you are not used to the narrow roads that can be found throughout Devon.

I probably should have referenced this earlier but for folks (Heather is one of them!) that haven’t experience English country roads, they can be a little overwhelming! But trust me when I say, it’s worth the effort and can actually be a pretty exciting adventure in itself.

At the heart of the village lies the spectacular Cockington Court, a manor house dating back to medieval times and surrounded by acres of gorgeous country park.

Buckfast Abbey

The plethora of unique attractions across South Devon continues with a working Benedictine monastery in Buckfastleigh, just a few miles outside of Newton Abbot and Totnes. For those of you planning on spending a few hours in either of these aforementioned towns, take some time to visit Buckfast Abbey for a historic experience.

For the historians out there, Buckfast Abbey offers a real treat! Buckfast first became home to an abbey in 1018, while the first Benedictine abbey was followed by a Savignac abbey constructed on the site of the present day structure in 1134.

Spend some time exploring the grounds, visiting the gift shop and restaurant, before heading over to the tranquil setting of the Sensory, Physic and Lavender Gardens.

Newton Abbot

Camping in Devon is certainly one of the best ways to enjoy the very best of this county and we strongly recommend considering Ross Park Caravan Park as your preferred option. Located just outside of the market town of Newton Abbot in the small village of Ipplepen, Ross Park is perfectly located to explore everything South Devon has to offer.

For those of you that don’t want to venture too far away from the caravan site, head into Newton Abbot to enjoy this traditional market town. With plenty of indoor and outdoor markets to experience, this is definitely a great spot to find local produce and bargains. If you are visiting during horse racing season, Newton Abbot racecourse frequently hosts meetings throughout the summer months.

A number of country parks are easily accessible from Newton Abbot, including Decoy Country Park, Courtenay Park, and many others. There are plenty of shopping options available throughout the town so if you ready for the hustle and bustle of life in a small Devon market town, Newton Abbot is the place to go!

South Devon may not be the first part of the UK you think about visiting but we would argue that this richly deserves to be considered as a viable vacation spot.

Breathtaking panoramic landscapes, architecture steeped full of history and a variety of local spots that will immediately capture the imagination, are all reasons why South Devon should be on everyone’s radar.

Although we have highlighted ten of the best things to do in South Devon, this barely touches the surface. It’s a part of the UK that needs to be explored and we cannot wait to return in the near future to experience more of this.

I almost forgot to mention…South Devon is perhaps the BEST place in the UK to experience a traditional cream tea!! We can well and truly attest, it’s delicious. Devonshire Clotted Cream, Jam, and a Scone combined with either coffee or tea…are you guys sold now?? WE DEFINITELY ARE!

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Such a good post I glad to read it. I have never Visit South Devon, and your pictures make me crazy and now I’m planning to visit here. Thanks for sharing attractive pictures with us.

This area looks fantastic! I love anything that’s on water. Plus the architecture looks lovely, there’s waterfalls, boats, and a miniature village. It has it all. You also can’t go wrong with fish and chips, yum.

Ooooh my gosh! We haven’t even been there and we’re already in love with South Devon!!! We can definitely see the comparison to the French Riviera, but there seem to be similarities to many areas of Europe all collected together in this regeion. We knew we wanted to spend a bit longer in England…and that bit just got even longer. 😉

Great suggestions, Devon has a lot to offer, cliffs and sandy beaches, picturesque landscape and historical towns. The food is delicious! One of the most beautiful parts of England.

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This Picturesque English Coastline Is Where You Should Be Beach-Hopping This Summer

Even for locals, many of the tropical-looking beaches in South Devon—a seaside county about four hours by car from London—are word-of-mouth tip-offs. Some are sandy coves, washed out of the schist coastline by the English Channel, while others are tidal, emerging along estuary creeks and river valleys. Depending on your priorities—privacy, accessibility, views—you might favor one stretch over another on any given day. In a landscape of high green ridgelines and deserted combes, it’s hard to go far wrong.

Much of South Devon is a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, sandwiched between Dartmoor National Park and the sea, less populated and more dramatically formed than most of the UK. The region is a hothouse for green businesses: organic farms, zero-waste shops, and environmentally-minded vineyards are thick on the ground. The riverside market town, Totnes, has become a byword for an outdoorsy, artistic community—catnip to the tourists who bunch around the estate agent windows.

Here, find our guide to the best places to stay, eat, and visit in South Devon—and why you should make a beeline for its beaches this summer.

Where to Stay

Set on a hillside immediately above the eastern bank of the River Dart (it’s a five-minute walk to the water through private grounds), two miles upstream from the sea, Leopoldina sleeps up to 10 people in pared-back, modern interiors, behind a 19th century Picturesque façade. In its first incarnation, the building was a coach house and stables built by John Nash—the architect to King George IV—intended to bunk the grooms and animals serving the Italianate country house, Sandridge Park, next door. There are still metal rings hanging on either side of the extra-high entrance for tethering horses.

Inside, sash windows overlook the lawn, down to the ha-ha and the curving Dart beyond, which is tidal and offers a constantly changing view. The bookshelves are full of crime novels, including a near-complete collection of Agatha Christie; the author kept a holiday home, Greenway, a 15-minute drive away, set on a sharp rise above the same tides. At the very top of the house, in a former dovecote with oxeye windows, there’s now a yoga studio and a roof deck with a hair-raising view of the river valley.

In a shell-pink building at the top of the high street in Totnes, The Bull Inn is a locally revered organic pub, with rooms upstairs and a focus on sustainable operations. Hot water for the nine bedrooms is heated via solar panels on the roof, and the restaurant is kept warm by a recapture system that pulls excess heat from the kitchen.

Bed linens and mattresses are made from organic materials, as are the bath products, while the furniture is vintage, often hauled back from antique shops by the owner, Geetie Singh-Watson. The restaurant serves meat but is known for its palmy vegetables—roasted, smoked, fermented, braised; dished out with plenty of nuts, herbs, seeds, and cheeses. Eat them with sourdough (from The Almond Thief bakery—see below) and a glass of biodynamic wine.

Where to Eat

Set on the village quay in Stoke Gabriel, surrounded by crabbers and kayakers, The River Shack is a waterside café where you can moor your boat at the door (and they’ll sell you a crabbing kit too for that matter). Wooden picnic tables are feet from the Dart, busy with locals who pack the place out. Don’t miss the pizza nights from Thursday to Saturday, which draw the whole village (get the pepperoni with hot honey).

There’s one seating for lunch and one for dinner at the Riverford Field Kitchen, a bright canteen hung with dried flowers, surrounded by acres of its own organic vegetable plots (visitors are encouraged to walk around, and there are grow-your-own workshops on offer). Everybody eats the same set menu, with accommodations for dietary requirements, which allows the kitchen to keep the costs down and gives the impression that you’re all guests at the same party.

Steam fogs the windows at one-room Emilia, which has an open kitchen serving Northern Italian dishes, chalked on the door of an old vault (the building used to be a bank). Candlelight flickers over bowls of things like cannellini beans in saffron, and mutton chops beside piles of bitter cime di rapa . There’s an offal of the day, priced generously to reflect the cheaper cut. It’s intimate and rose-tinted and you should probably leave your small children at home, unlike me. Order the cherry brandy and almond bark for pudding. Take someone you’d like to rub ankles with.

The rural setting of Glebe House, a restaurant with rooms surrounded by a 15-acre smallholding, is crucial to the spell of the place, which is heavy on Devonshire air and the scent of baking porridge bread. The Georgian vicarage is a hilltop eyrie in the rolling, sparsely-populated Coly Valley, necessitating a circuitous drive for anybody who isn’t staying upstairs. But the set four-course menu, which leans Italian (soft cheese with walnuts, marjoram, and honey; tagliatelle in wild garlic pesto; porchetta and beans; brown butter cake with blood oranges) is a winning lure. As a reward for making it, have a glass of the thirst-slaking sparkling from Castlewood Vineyard, a winery a few miles east of Glebe House.

Vines belonging to Sandridge Barton winery, a decorated vineyard with sustainable practices in place (air-source heat pumps and rainwater harvesting, as well as solar panels, are integral to the business), rake the hills in the Dart Valley. The winery restaurant, Circa, opened in a redeveloped stone dairy parlor in the summer of 2022, and flies under the radar given the first-rate cooking. Ingredients travel as little as possible, many grown or foraged from the estate, and include winemaking by-products like fermented grape skins. A rich plate of lion’s mane mushrooms over milk bread, with Caerphilly cheese and cep foam (“a fancy version of mushrooms on toast,” says the server), brings the house down everywhere it lands.

This indie bakery sells the sourdough loaf to beat in South Devon, as well as croissants, chocolate rye cookies, and a sugar-crusted, bay and orange morning bun worth setting an alarm for (they sell out—everything sells out, but the buns really fly). At the bakery headquarters, in an industrial park in Dartington (there are two other shops, one in Totnes and another in Plymouth), coffee is on offer, and there are folding tables next to the stacks of proofing baskets where you can take a load off.

To get your eye in, start with a sure thing: Blackpool Sands is located right beside the A379, near Dartmouth, with a designated car park, bathrooms, and a café selling cream teas. On top of that, it’s a shingle-sand beauty hemmed by pine trees, with craggy cliffs at either end. You can rent a kayak. It couldn’t be more civilized.

At Great Mattiscombe Sands, 10 miles south of Blackpool along the coast, cars can be left in the Start Point Lighthouse car park. The walk to the beach takes around 15 minutes, and the sight of the ocean ahead, in a dip between two green hills, will light a fire under anybody. The modest slog means the beach is usually quiet, though there are no organized facilities to speak of, beyond a portaloo back in the car park. A two-mile circular hike from the beach, on the South West Coast Path, will take you up the spectacular, rocky headland and past the Start Point Lighthouse, a Victorian Gothic beacon and the southernmost point in Devon. That walk alone is worth the beach day.

To reach Gara Rock Beach, drive seven miles further west along the Channel, and you’ll find an honesty box car park on the cliffs above the sand. The descent is steep, but you can have your towel spread out in around 10 minutes. There are rock pools to poke around in, and like Great Mattiscombe, the odds are good that you’ll have the place to yourself.

At 630 miles from end to end, this coastal hiking trail is the longest in Britain, edging around the entire southwest peninsula of the country. The path through South Devon is about 100 miles, beginning in Plymouth and wrapping up in Starcross, a small village downriver from Exeter. The charity that maintains the trail, the South West Coast Path Association, runs a website that recommends shorter walks along the main path. If you’re only going to do one, I’d choose the Dartmouth Greenway Round, a circular walk along the lower portion of the Dart Valley Trail that skirts the astoundingly pretty estuary and involves two ferries across the river.

If you do the walking loop above, you’ll pass Agatha Christie’s riverside holiday home, Greenway, which she bought in 1938 and kept until her death in 1976. It’s now operated by the National Trust and arranged to look as though Christie has just stepped out—her unexpectedly glamourous clothes still fill a walk-in closet; a straw sunhat sits on the head of a marble bust beside the front door. There are stacks of post on the side tables, apparently real, from Christie’s literary agents, addressed to her daughter Rosalind, who lived at Greenway until 2004. A second-hand bookshop operates from an outbuilding, with proceeds supporting the running of the house (£867.50 so far this year, at the time of writing). The crime section is booming.

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The 10 best beaches in Devon

Devon has some of the UK’s finest beache s, catering for everything from romantic strolling to surfing.

The north coast is fringed with wild and windswept swathes of sand, some up to three miles long, but there are sheltered treasures here, too, including Victorian tidal pools and hidden inlets accessible to those who dare. The south coast has calmer seas, genteel seaside towns, turquoise waters and a good choice of beach cafés serving fresh fish, just-baked cakes and locally produced ice creams. Here’s our pick of the best places in Devon to take a dip.

For further Devon inspiration, see our guides to the region's best hotels , restaurants , pubs , cream teas and things to do .

Find a beach by area

North devon, south devon.

Ranked by TripAdvisor travellers as one of the world's best beaches, this three-mile swathe of golden sand has oodles of space for spreading out, even in the height of summer. Patrolled by RNLI lifeguards from Easter to September, it’s the ideal place to learn to surf, paddleboard or kayak in safety. There’s a good choice of shops, pubs and cafés, most notably The Captain’s Table , which is at the top end of the beach and has far-reaching views of the coastline. The parking is reasonably priced and the showers and toilets are always immaculate. Dogs are welcome – with some restrictions – between April and November. 

Getting there: There are car parks at various points along the beach.

Saunton Sands

This three-mile stretch of sand has provided a backdrop for several films such as Edge of Tomorrow and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society plus music videos including Robbie Williams’ Angels. Just behind Saunton Sands is Braunton Burrows, the largest sand dune system in England and home to more than 400 unique dune plant species, with 1,500 acres of dunes to play, hide or snooze in. For consistently good fish and chips try  Squires Fish Restaurant . 

Getting there: There’s a car park by the beach.

Tunnels Beaches, Ilfracombe

Accessed via a network of four tunnels hand carved into rocks in the 1820s, these shingle beaches offer tranquil bathing and sunbathing on what is an otherwise exposed coastline. Don’t miss a dip in the renovated Victorian tidal pool built into the rocks, and there’s great rock pooling for children at low tide. Information boards provide colourful history of the site, including guides to Victorian bathing etiquette. Sun worshippers should note these beaches are shaded by cliffs for much of the day. There are no lifeguards and there's a small admission fee.

Getting there: There’s a car park close to the beach.

Broadsands Beach

Accessed via 220 uneven steps hewn out of a steeply wooded cliff face, only the intrepid reach this deep, double cove. Clear turquoise waters and elusive sea caves are hidden behind by lush foliage, making it feel like your own secret, well-deserved discovery. Explore sea arches, caves, island and tunnels to the west of the bay, and swim to an island lookout. Time your visit with low-tide as there isn’t much sand at high tide.

Getting there: Park in Napps Caravan Park, or at Sawmills Pub and walk up.

Conservationist Bill Oddie's favourite beach, and one of the best places in the country for rock pooling, Wembury teems with aquatic life. Get there at low tide and you’re likely to find limpets, anemones, shore crabs, pipe fish, sea scorpions, spiny star fish, Cornish sucker fish and edible crabs. A  marine information centre  on the beach has interactive displays and critter-filled tanks, and runs regular organised rockpool rambles. The website has a downloadable identification chart.

Getting there: There's a National Trust car park by the beach.

Blackpool Sands

Set beneath wooded cliffs, this mile-long, privately owned crescent can’t be far from heaven. Safe, sheltered swimming, a floating dock, lifeguards in summer, clean seas, shops selling beach essential. Although the name may be slightly misleading – the beach is actually made up of shingle – the claim that it’s ‘South Devon’s most picturesque beach’ certainly stands true.

Getting there: Head for the large car park by the beach.

South Sands

It’s hard to choose from the array of beach beauties that surround the yachtie town of Salcombe, but South Sands, a quick ferry ride or short walk from town, tops our list for being sheltered, seaweed-free and sun-kissed most of the day. It’s small – and smaller still at low tide – but has soft sand, safe, shallow swimming, blue seas and several excellent eating options, including  South Sands Hotel  and rustic beach café  The Winking Prawn  nearby. A quick ferry ride across the other side of the estuary takes you to Mill Bay and Sunny Cove, where there’s more room to spread out.

Getting there: South Sands has an on-site car park.

One of South Devon’s few surfing beaches. Bantham has mellow waves for beginners (known in surf-speak as ‘ankle slappers’) and enough rips and breaks for more advanced surfers. Look out for stand-up paddle surfers, a sedate take on the sport. The beach looks out onto Bigbury Bay and the iconic Burgh Island and has beautiful coastal walks towards Thurlestone and South Milton Sands.  Gastrobus  in the carpark serves gourmet burgers, hot dogs and exceptional coffee and cream teas.

Getting there: Drivers will find a large car park by the beach.

Getting to this red sand and shingle beach – via what’s believed to be an old smugglers' tunnel – is an adventure in itself. Tucked out of sight, the cove was once the haunt of nefarious types bringing contraband in and out of the country. It’s a spectacular spot, with towering red sandstone cliffs. At the entrance is Shaldon Zoo , home to a collection of critically endangered primates, including lemurs, marmosets and monkeys.  Café Ode , at the top of the car park, is not to be missed, with the selection of cakes worth a journey in itself.

Getting there: There’s a car park at the top of the hill.

Slapton Sands

This is a beach filled with history – more than 600 US servicemen were sadly killed on the three-mile stretch of shingle when German E-boats attacked their D-day rehearsals. A Sherman tank on the sand commemorates the lives lost. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months and there is a flag system in place telling you when and where it’s safe to swim. Across the road is Slapton Ley Nature Reserve , a marshy, freshwater lake that shelters wildflowers, rare birds, badgers and otters.  

Getting there: Discover a car park by the beach.

How we choose

Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations.

Play The Telegraph’s brilliant range of Puzzles - and feel brighter every day. Train your brain and boost your mood with PlusWord, the Mini Crossword, the fearsome Killer Sudoku and even the classic Cryptic Crossword.

• United Kingdom

Restaurants near South Devon Chilli Farm

Cuisine (20 of 49), 88 restaurants available nearby, 1. twenty seven by jamie rogers, 2. seven stars, 3. beachhouse, 4. millbrook inn, south pool, 5. the river shack, 6. gara rock, 7. schoolhouse, 8. bayards cove inn, 9. kendricks dartmouth, 10. the elephant restaurant, see what locals rave about.

• DR DavidR Kent • 3 reviews 5.0 Dined 3 days ago If you’re in Devon, then is a must visit. The food, beverages, staff and location are all first class. Everything is freshly cooked from quality sourced local ingredients, great menu to suit everyone’s taste, caters for all ages, go on, don’t hesitate and have a great time at The Beachhouse. More info Beachhouse £££ £ Price: Expensive • Seafood • Kingsbridge • 4.7
• OT OpenTable Diner Liverpool/Merseyside • 3 reviews 5.0 Dined 4 days ago Fabulous food , not cheap but top quality locally sourced ingredients very well used. Not cheap but you get what you pay for. Only issue on the night was the proximity of a very loud table of 6 whos braying voices made polite family discussions / conversations impossible. Restaurant deserves to do well More info Millbrook Inn, South Pool £££ £ Price: Expensive • British • Salcombe • 4.7
• OT OpenTable Diner Devon • 1 review 5.0 Dined 5 days ago Exquisite food, very good service. Will come again. Compliments to the chef. We had the 3 course summer a la carte menu with the canapes. More info Twenty Seven by Jamie Rogers £££ £ Price: Expensive • British • Kingsbridge • 4.7
• PL PatL Devon • 3 reviews 5.0 Dined on Jun 27, 2024 Perfect lunch in a perfect location. Waitresses friendly and helpful. Lovely experience all round. More info The River Shack ££ ££ Price: Moderate • Contemporary British • Paignton • 4.7
• B Bedo Cornwall • 2 reviews 5.0 Dined on Jun 24, 2024 First time here but so nice had lunch as well following day. Great food, lovely attentive staff, nice setting. 🙂 More info Seven Stars ££ ££ Price: Moderate • Pub • Kingsbridge • 4.3

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South Africa v Ireland: Start time, stream, and where to watch on TV

Ireland and South Africa begin their eagerly-awaited summer Test series this weekend as the battle for bragging rights gets underway.

Andy Farrell’s squad will take on the Rassie Erasmus-led Springboks twice in seven days, with this weekend’s first Test marking the first time the two sides have met since Ireland’s win in the pool stages of last year’s Rugby World Cup.

Today's top videos

Story continues below.

Despite plenty of background barbs being fired in the lead-up, the time for talking is now over as the action looms – and here is everything to know:

When will the first Test match take place?

The first Test between Ireland and South Africa will get underway on Saturday, July 6.

Where will the match take place?

The high-altitude Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria will play host to the first Test encounter between the two sides.

What time is kick-off?

Kick-off is at 4pm Irish time.

What TV channel is the match on?

This match will be shown exclusively live on Sky Sports Arena, where coverage will commence at 3.30pm.

Watch: ‘Moment of genius’ – Jamie Osborne grabs try on debut after James Lowe brilliance

Peter o’mahony: ‘no one was shocked’ at jamie osborne’s south africa nod, warren gatland recalls how he ‘purposely upset’ joe schmidt before clashes with ireland, must read rugby.

More: Trending Rugby

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Everything you need to know about the July 4th Concert and Fireworks

*For the complete list of Wawa Welcome America events and road closures, visit our Welcome America Road Closure Press Release .

On Thursday, July 4, the Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert and Fireworks returns to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for the culmination of the sixteen-day independence celebration.

Attendees can explore the 2024 Welcome America story map on the City’s website to review important public safety information. The map helps members of the public find Parkway amenities such as jumbotrons and porta-potties. It also indicates stations for medical help and security. The story map , available at phila.gov/america , also includes road closure maps for the Parkway area and Old City.

Stay connected to important information from the City, like weather and event-related details. Text “ AMERICA ” to 888-777 to receive free Welcome America alerts from the Office of Emergency Management.

July 4th Concert and Fireworks

Concert begins at 7 p.m. | Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m. | Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Philadelphia’s legendary July 4th Concert features performances by three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning R&B hitmaker, iconic songwriter, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Ne-Yo, and Grammy-nominated and award-winning musician, actress and activist Kesha.

Prior to the concert, guests will enjoy a collaborative performance by DJ Diamond Kuts and Snacktime Philly on the Pennsylvania Lottery Groove Stage on the Parkway from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The concert will begin on the main stage at 7 p.m. 

The main concert will be televised live during primetime in its entirety on NBC10 & simulcast from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on NBC Sports Philadelphia+. The free concert will also be live streamed on the NBC Philadelphia News channel on Peacock, Roku, Samsung TV Plus, Amazon Fire TV, Pluto and Xumo Play as well as www.nbc10.com. The concert will be streamed in Spanish on Telemundo Noreste on Roku and Samsung TV Plus as well as www.telemundo62.com enabling viewers to watch on any device.

The July 4th Concert will be followed by a large, public firework display over the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway courtesy of Wawa beginning at 9:45 p.m.

Please view the Wawa Welcome America Festival Brochure for more details about the events.

How to Enter the Parkway Events

The Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert & Fireworks is open to the public and free to attend.  

Gates for the concert open at 4 p.m. Guests will be directed to enter the event venue at the secured entry point at the following location: 

• 20th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway (Logan Circle)

*If you have a ticket for the front section, you must enter at 22nd Street & Pennsylvania Avenue. OR 22nd & Winter Streets . 

All guests must go through a security check upon entering, including magnetometers and bag checks.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to avoid any traffic delays or heavy pedestrian traffic. The Parkway is general admission and occupied on a first-come-first-served basis.

What to Expect

Venue rules and safety information.

The vicinity of the Wawa Welcome America July Fourth Concert & Fireworks (a boundary from at least 19th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and adjacent areas), will be secured and protected for a safe and fun celebration. Throughout the Wawa Welcome America festivities, the City will provide enhanced law enforcement and emergency medical services. The City and Welcome America are coordinating with local, state and federal public safety authorities to ensure everyone can safely enjoy the Fourth of July.

For the safety of event attendees and participants, unauthorized sUAS/drone usage is prohibited over crowds by the FAA. If you see a drone at an event, please report it to the nearest police officer with a location and description of the operator.

Check out this informative video provided by Welcome America that highlights the venue rules. 

Know where to find law enforcement and medical help along the Parkway. 

The Philadelphia Fire Department’s EMS Division will have medic teams spread across the Parkway at the following locations: 

• 2300 Benjamin Franklin Parkway (Southside)
• 22nd Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway (Southside)
• 21st Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway (Northside)

Call 9-1-1 if you are having a medical emergency or see someone who may be in need of medical attention.

Private security posts and information booths can also call for help. 

Have important phone numbers memorized. 

If you see something – say something!

These safety tips and more can be found in the Special Events Safety Guide .

Weather and heat precautions

With the potential for high temperatures, there is a risk of heat-related health issues. Many heat stress or heat exhaustion issues can be avoided by taking simple precautions.

Attendees should follow all proper precautions to protect themselves and their families against the heat. All festival-goers should stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, and avoiding alcoholic beverages, caffeine, and excessive layers of clothing.

Consider the “Three L’s” Rule: light-colored, lightweight and loose-fitting. Wear garments made of natural fibers like cotton.

For more tips on how to beat the heat, visit the City’s heat guide .  

Accessibility

Welcome America July 4th Concert and Fireworks is an accessible event and is dedicated to ensuring access to people of all abilities. Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a wheelchair-accessible roadway that features flat surfaces and curb cutouts.

Portable toilets, including ADA-compliant units, will be available throughout the Parkway.

There will be multiple screens throughout the festival grounds for people to see the stage. 

Please refer to the 2024 Welcome America story map , which identifies these locations. 

What Can I Bring?

The following items are permitted at Welcome America events:

• Personal food & beverage (no alcoholic beverages)
• Small personal coolers
• Pets on leashes
• Chairs and blankets (not permitted in the ticketed front section)

Please note: all persons and/or their belongings are subject to search as a condition of entry into the July 4th Concert and Fireworks. 

When in doubt, leave it home! 

Keep possessions and bags with you always and do not leave them unattended.

Items NOT allowed inside the festival footprint

For the safety of event attendees and staff, the following items are prohibited:

• Weapons and contraband of any kind regardless of permitting, e.g. Right-to-Carry permits will not be honored, and entry will be denied.
• Fireworks, firecrackers, or explosives (including sparklers)
• Open flame of any kind
• Illegal or illicit substances of any kind (does not pertain to individual prescribed medication)
• Flyers, handbills, posters, stickers (no solicitation allowed)
• Full face coverings, such as ski masks and balaclavas (this does not apply to COVID-19 masks or faith-based coverings)
• Unauthorized commerce
• Items that would obstruct others’ view (large signs, banners, etc.)
• Drones and any other unmanned and remote-controlled devices
• ATVS, dirt bikes, skateboards, rollerblades, bicycles, segways, hoverboards, and similar items (cannot be brought into the event space)
• Glass Containers
• Laser pointers
• Selfie Sticks
• Any other item or action deemed dangerous or inappropriate by production or security management

Lost children

Parents or guardians should report a missing child to the nearest law enforcement officer, medic, private security representative, or information booth as soon as possible.

Public safety officials will coordinate the search for missing children with the full support of the Philadelphia Police Department.

Be sure to take a photo of your child before arriving at the Welcome America events. If separated, this will be very helpful for those searching for your child. It’s also recommended to have children memorize their parent’s cell phone numbers.

Lost and found

If you’ve lost a personal belonging, look for the nearest information booth where you last had the item. Wawa Welcome America staff can check if the item has been returned there or at other information booths.

After July 4, lost items can be reclaimed by contacting the Welcome America office at [email protected] .

Getting to the Parkway events

Philadelphia’s mass transit system, SEPTA, offers two subway lines, regional rail service to and from the surrounding suburbs, and bus service throughout the city.

Regional rail service, the Market Frankford Line, and the Broad Street Line will operate on a Sunday schedule with additional cars added to increase rider capacity at the break of the event. Check the Regional Rail extended train service schedule and the SEPTA website for more details.

• Bus Detours: Due to road closures, buses that travel on or near the Parkway will be detoured starting at 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 4 through 5 p.m. on Friday, July 5. Routes detoured: 7, 32, 33, 38, 43, 48 and 49. 

SEPTA travel tips:

• On Thursday, July 4, please refer to the Sunday schedule of the SEPTA service you wish to ride. Routes that do not offer Sunday service will not operate
• The Ben Franklin Parkway is best accessed from the 15th Street Market-Frankford Line Station and Race-Vine or City Hall Broad Street Line Station
• Visit the Fares section for fare and SEPTA Key information
• Download the SEPTA App for iPhone and Android devices. Visit the Google Play or Apple App Store and look for the official SEPTA App.
• The SEPTA Customer Service Call Center (215) 580-7800 will open from 8 a.m. to  8 p.m. on Thursday, July 4.

Check SEPTA’s website, Septa.org , for full details on transit options. For information on NJ Transit routes and schedules on July 4, visit NJTransit.com .

Philly PHLASH

The Philly PHLASH Downtown Bus Loop will operate a special holiday service on Thursday, July 4. For updated holiday route detour and schedule information, visit RidePhillyPhlash.com on your mobile device or VisitPhilly’s PhillyPhlash Guide on your desktop.

Taxi & Rideshare

Designated rideshare and taxi drop-off points for the July Fourth Concert will be 17th and Spring Garden Street. 

Cyclists and Pedestrians

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is easily accessible via cycling and walking. Keep in mind that if a road is closed to vehicular traffic, it is also closed to cycling. Walking paths will remain open for pedestrians as conditions allow; however, please follow all posted signs, detours and traffic control devices.

• The Kelly Drive bike path (river side) between Eakins Oval and Sedgley Drive will be closed to cyclists and pedestrians beginning at 5 p.m. until the conclusion of the fireworks for safety concerns.

RideIndego is an accessible and affordable way to get to and from the July 4th Concert and Fireworks with stations conveniently located along the Parkway. Download the official Indego App to check real-time bike and dock availability at any station. Visit the Google Play or Apple App Store and look for the official Indego App.

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Life in the DMZ is getting more tense for the soldiers monitoring North and South Korea’s fragile peace

PANMUNJOM, Demilitarized Zone — With his bed less than 50 feet from the North Korean border, Maj. Luca Meli jokes that he sleeps closer to the reclusive nuclear-armed state than anyone in the world. 

From his bedroom in the heavily fortified buffer zone that separates North and South Korea , the Swiss soldier has a front-row view of the North’s expanding military activities amid the highest tensions on the Korean Peninsula in years. 

“We hear explosions every night,” he said.

As a delegate to the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC), an organization made up of five Swiss and five Swedish soldiers who live in the Demilitarized Zone, Meli is tasked with monitoring adherence to the armistice agreement that ended the Korean War in 1953.

While the agreement ended fighting on the Korean Peninsula, a final peace treaty was never signed. The two Koreas are now separated by the 2.5-mile-wide DMZ, where nature has flourished as its fields and forests have gone largely untouched for decades.

“These two countries are de facto still at war, and so anything can happen,” Meli said. “It’s really peaceful, but you feel that it’s fragile.”

Tensions have ratcheted up in recent weeks as North Korea sent trash-carrying balloons to the South in apparent retaliation for anti-Pyongyang leaflets that activists in South Korea dropped over its territory. South Korea, a treaty ally that the U.S. has pledged to defend, has responded by suspending a 2018 military pact aimed at reducing inter-Korean tensions and restarting anti-Pyongyang propaganda broadcasts from loudspeakers in border areas for the first time in six years. 

In recent days, South Korea has also followed North Korea in resuming live-fire drills near the border, while North Korea continued a barrage of testing related to its nuclear weapons and missile programs following the end of joint military exercises in the region among the United States, South Korea and Japan.  

North Korea — which recently signed a mutual defense pact with Russia that has alarmed the West — views such exercises as a rehearsal for invasion, which the U.S. and its allies deny.

The tensions are perhaps most evident along the DMZ, which is becoming increasingly militarized after the scrapping of the 2018 agreement by North Korea last November and South Korea last month. Experts say that militarization raises the risk of cross-border conflict at a time when the world is already occupied by multiple wars including in Ukraine and the Middle East.

The changes include an uptick in construction activity on the North Korean side, as evidenced by the explosions that Meli and others at the NNSC hear almost every day. 

“It looks like they’re building walls, they’re building roads, and they’re building fences. They’re also mining areas,” Lt. Col. Livio Räber, operations officer of the NNSC, said in an interview at Camp Humphreys, a U.S. military base that is home to most of the 28,000-odd American troops currently stationed in South Korea. 

At the same time, communication across the border has worsened.

“Dialogue is missing,” said Maj. Gen. Ivo Burgener, head of the Swiss NNSC delegation. “This increases uncertainty, which in turn increases the risks.”

This uncertainty plays out inside the DMZ itself. In the Joint Security Area, the only place in the DMZ where North and South Korean forces stand face to face, border guards are once again armed. 

On a screen inside the Joint Security Area Visitor Center, Meli pointed out a live feed showing North Korean soldiers at work repairing a building on their side of the DMZ. 

But the work goes far beyond renovations. South Korean officials say they believe the explosion of North Korean land mines along the border has caused multiple casualties among North Korean troops.

“North Korean soldiers are unreasonably continuing with their labor despite these accidents and casualties,” they said last month .

While the exact purpose of these newly placed mines is unclear, Räber said they could be used to render areas of the DMZ inaccessible to the South and to deter potential defectors seeking to flee across the border from the North.

He added that the increase in construction activity has also led North Korea to bring in soldiers who are less familiar with the DMZ. Unused to working in this sensitive environment, these soldiers have inadvertently strayed across the border on three occasions in recent weeks, prompting warning shots from the South .

While South Korean officials say these crossings appear to be unintentional, experts say incidents such as these raise the chances of accidental conflict. 

“The situation is relatively stable, but the risk of escalation has increased,” Burgener said. 

Back in the Swiss camp, with a basketball hoop, a barbecue set and the sound of wind rustling through the surrounding forest, it’s possible to forget that the soldiers’ huts are on the front lines of a frozen conflict.

Räber said it can often feel like “the calmest place in the world.”

But with more soldiers, more weapons, more activity, and less dialogue across an increasingly militarized DMZ, Räber continued, “We have to remember where we are, and where we work.”

“It could become the most dangerous place in the world within seconds, minutes or hours,” he said.

Jan Camenzind Broomby is a freelance journalist based in Taiwan.

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Summer Travel 2024: Record Air Travel, Fewer Cancellations, Better Airports, More Passenger Protections

Year-to-date flight cancellation rate is just 1.4% during a record-breaking summer travel season​​​​​

WASHINGTON – Despite record-breaking levels of air travel this year, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) numbers show that the flight cancellation rate for the first half of 2024 was just 1.4% – nearly the lowest rate in over a decade. The latest data from airlines reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that weather continues to be the leading cause of flight cancellations.

On June 23, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened more than 2.99 million individuals in a single day at U.S. airports – the most airline passengers the agency has screened in its history. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million individuals this Independence Day travel season, which is a 5.4% increase over last year. At the same time, airfares are down 6% over the last year and below pre-pandemic prices.

“This year’s record-breaking air travel is another good sign for our economy as more Americans take to the skies than ever before,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “To help avoid travel headaches, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to modernize airports and expand passenger protections for a smoother travel experience.” 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $25 billion in U.S. airport infrastructure over five years. This unprecedented investment is not only improving runways and air traffic control towers but also adding gates and adding flight capacity, modernizing baggage systems, replacing passenger boarding bridges, reconfiguring security screening areas, improving safety, and more to finally deliver world-class airports in the U.S. and meet anticipated demand in the decades to come. Just this week, the Federal Aviation Administration announced $289 million in airport infrastructure grants in 40 states and an additional $1 billion in available funding to modernize airport terminals. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly 200 terminal projects are already under construction to modernize America’s airports and make air travel safer and smoother. 

The Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to improve airline passenger rights and oversight of the airline industry: 

• The rule makes clear that airline passengers are entitled to a refund when their flight is canceled or significantly changed and they no longer wish to take that flight or be rebooked, when their checked baggage is significantly delayed, or when extra services they paid for – like Wi-Fi – are not provided. The rule also requires refunds to be automatic, prompt, in the original form of payment, and in the full amount paid. Airlines must comply with the rule by late October.  
• Provisions of the final rule on airline refunds were fortified through the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that President Biden signed into law on May 16, 2024. 
• The rule creates a more competitive airline market by requiring airlines to disclose critical extra fees – like change fees and baggage fees – upfront to ensure consumers can better understand the true cost of air travel. The rule also bans “bait-and-switch” advertising tactics and requires airlines to clearly tell passengers upfront that a seat is included with the cost of their ticket. This rule is expected to save consumers over half a billion dollars every year.  
• Launched the flightrights.gov dashboard, after which all 10 major U.S. airlines guaranteed free rebooking and meals when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to through enforcement action.  
• Secured nearly $4 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.  
• Issued nearly $170 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations since President Biden took office. In comparison, between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
• Set up a system to expand the Department’s capacity to review air travel service complaints by partnering with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general , which will help hold airlines accountable and protect the rights of the traveling public.

Live: M5 closed both ways by police incident

Drivers are being taken off the motorway

• Updated 12:25, 5 JUL 2024

The M5 is closed in both directions amid a police incident. According to traffic monitoring site Inrix, drivers are being taken off the motorway heading northbound.

The M5 is shut between junction 23 and junction 24 near Bridgwater.

The incident was first reported shortly before 12pm today (Thursday, July 4).

Inrix says: "M5 in both directions closed, queueing traffic due to police incident from J23 A39 (Bridgwater North) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South). Camera shows traffic is being taken off Northbound exit slip, traffic was held before 12:00."

This is a live blog. Scroll down for updates.

• Man charged after M5 traffic chaos 12:25
• M5 reopened but severe delays remain 15:25
• National Highways reporting long delays 15:14
• M5 northbound drivers facing 90-minute delays 14:31
• 90-minute delays on the M5 southbound 14:28

Man charged after M5 traffic chaos

A man has been charged after the M5 was closed for hours in Somerset on Thursday, July 4. The closure led to severe delays in both directions near Bridgwater with diversion routes in place. It was reported that Avon and Somerset Police were responding to a concern for welfare incident at around noon. It resulted in huge tailbacks and 90-minute delays for hundreds of drivers .

It has since been confirmed that Trevor Barry, from Bridgwater, has been charged in relation to the incident. He was charged with two counts of causing a public nuisance and one count of criminal damage. Read the full story here.

M5 traffic eases

M5 reopened but severe delays remain.

The M5 has reopened although there are still severe delays in both directions due to earlier incident. The motorway was closed between J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South) to J23 A39 (Bridgwater North) from just before midday to 3.15pm. Congestion remains to north J25 (Taunton) and South Sedgemoor Services. The earlier diversion route is also heavily congested, approaching Burrowbridge. Traffic cameras show that both northbound and southbound carriageways have reopened.

National Highways reporting long delays

National Highways is currently reporting that normal traffic conditions will return at between 5.45pm and 6pm on the M5. Meanwhile, there are delays of around 90 minutes.

M5 northbound drivers facing 90-minute delays

National Highways is reporting that there are 90-minute delays on the northbound carriageway of the M5. Traffic is stationary between junctions 25 and 24. The motorway remains closed in both directions between junctions 24 and 23. Diversions are in place and trapped traffic is being turned around.

90-minute delays on the M5 southbound

National Highways is reporting 90-minute delays on the M5 southbound. Traffic is backed up north of junction 22.

Long delays as M5 closed both ways

Inrix says: "M5 in both directions closed, long delays due to police incident from J23 A39 (Bridgwater North) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South). Congestion to North J25 (Taunton) and South before J22 ( Burnham-on-sea ).

"Cameras shows trapped traffic within the closure is still being turned around, traffic was held before 12:00. Diversion - Northbound via the A38 towards Bridgwater and Southbound via the A39 towards Dunball Roundabout."

Traffic is being turned around

Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that they are attending a concern for welfare incident on the M5. All traffic has been stopped in both directions and there are huge queues on the motorway.

The M5 in Somerset is closed in both directions between J24 (Huntworth) and J23 near Bridgwater due to an Avon and Somerset Police led incident.

Trapped traffic being turned around

The latest log from Inrix says: "M5 in both directions closed, long delays due to police incident from J23 A39 (Bridgwater North) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South). Congestion to North J25 (Taunton) and South J22 ( Burnham-on-sea ).

"Cameras shows trapped traffic within the closure is being turned around, traffic was held before 12:00. Diversion - Northbound via the A38 towards Bridgwater and Southbound via the A39 towards Dunball Roundabout."

Pictures show people getting out of cars

Police called to concern for welfare incident

Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that they were called to a concern for welfare incident. The first call came in at 11.22am and officers remain at the scene.

Diversion routes in place

Diversion routes are in place on the M5 due to a serious police incident in Somerset today, Thursday, July 4. The motorway is closed in both directions between junction 24 and junction 23, near Bridgwater.

For full details on the diversion routes, click here.

M5 closed both ways

The latest update from Inrix reports: "M5 in both directions closed, queueing traffic due to police incident from J23 A39 (Bridgwater North) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South).

"Camera shows traffic is being taken off Northbound exit slip, traffic was held before 12:00."

Heavy traffic on M5

Inrix latest

Inrix says: "All traffic being temporarily held and stationary traffic due to police incident on M5 in both directions from J23 A39 (Bridgwater North) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South). Held before 12:00."

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