7 great places to caravan in Devon

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Glorious Devon! There are many things that are great about it, not least that it’s in the south of England, benefitting from some of the best weather the British Isles has to offer! With beautiful sandy beaches, picturesque rural villages and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), what more could you ask for?

Perhaps afternoon tea? Well, you’re in luck as the cream tea was actually invented here! Historians discovered hard evidence that the cream tea started at Tavistock’s Benedictine Abbey over 1,000 years ago, when monks fed workers a combination of bread, clotted cream and strawberry jam. Today we have graduated to scones with our yummy toppings and a pot of tea to accompany it, but the big question is - jam or cream first? The traditional Devonshire way is cream on the bottom, jam on top!

Devon is also home to the oldest gin distillery in the world, so it’s always gin o’clock in the west country! Established in 1793, Plymouth Gin is the only gin distillery currently operating in Plymouth. It still operates in its original location, a building that was once a Dominican Order Monastery built in 1431. 

Devon is a beautiful county, home to several national parks, AONBs, endless sandy beaches and a fantastic coastline, which includes part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, which starts in Exmouth and continues for 95 miles into neighbouring Dorset. There are many other great places to visit too, including picture postcard villages, lively cities, historical sites  and fun family days out.

7 great Devon locations...

Exeter

Devon’s capital, Exeter is steeped in history and culture. Dating back to Roman times, the city walls surround its centre and the cathedral. Although not much remains of Exeter Castle, it provides a lovely walk and the information boards will give you the full story. The Royal Memorial Museum and Underground Passages are also worth a visit if history is of interest. The city has a thriving culture; it has a busy independent arts scene and is a hub for top sporting and music events. 

Plymouth

A Port City located on Devon’s south coast, Plymouth is renowned for its maritime heritage as well as its history. It was from the Mayflower Steps that the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for the New World in 1620. The Barbican District, with its cobbled streets, pretty marina, quirky shops and unique eateries is a great place to while away a few hours. The aforementioned Plymouth Gin Distillery offers three different tours and there’s a shop and lounge to enjoy too. National Trust venue Saltram House is a great way to spend an afternoon; an impressive Georgian mansion overlooking the River Plym and coupled with beautiful gardens, ideal for walks and picnics.

Torquay

With a coastline nicknamed the English Riviera, this seaside town pretty much sells itself! The beaches at Babbacombe and Oddicombe are idyllic, and the harbour - which is just a short walk from the town centre - offers shops, cafes and a marina to wander around. Not to be outdone in the history department, Torquay is home to Torre Abbey, an ancient monument dating back to 1196. Set within 18 acres of gardens and parklands, the Abbey now houses an impressive art collection of over 600 works of art from the 18th century to the present day.

Bideford

A historic port town in north Devon, Bideford is now known as a great place to shop! With a historic Pannier Market - a type of indoor market - and the popular Atlantic Village outlet, it’s the ideal place to enjoy some retail therapy. Rest assured that when you want to take a break from the shopping, the town has lots of other things to offer including The Big Sheep family attraction and Lundy Island, a granite outcrop a short distance off the coast. For those wanting to enjoy scenic walks, Hartland Abbey and Gardens, Northam Burrows Country Park and Tapeley Gardens are in close proximity.

Barnstaple

Barnstable has plenty to keep both kids and adults entertained! Situated in north Devon, Barnstaple is close to the coast and just 20 minutes’ drive from the fantastic sandy beaches of Saunton Sands, Croyde and Woolacombe. Exmoor Zoo is a top family day out with its impressive collection of unusual mammals as well as an array of birds, reptiles and amphibians. For more scenic trips, Heddon Valley and Castle Hill offer lovely walks and stunning scenery.

Tiverton

Located in mid Devon, Tiverton is a pretty town situated on two rivers, the Lowman and the Exe. From historic sites (Knightshayes Court) to amusement parks (Devon Railway Centre), wildlife havens (Grand Western Canal Country Park) to vineyards, Tiverton has it all! Wine lovers can choose from Wellhayes and Yearlestone Vineyards; both offer tasting sessions and house tempting eateries if you’re looking to team the wine with a bite to eat. Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life should not be missed either - the array of quirky artifacts will keep the whole family interested!

Dartmoor National Park

A vast moorland covering 954 square km, the area is a haven for wildlife. With deep river valleys, forest, wetland and rock formations, Dartmoor will deliver a breath-taking experience. Ideal for walkers, hikers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers, the park has much to offer. This year will see the Park celebrate 70 years as a national park so it’s the perfect time to visit and discover the delights for yourself. Did you know? Dartmoor is home to nine towns and villages - it’s not all wilderness!

Ready, set, book!

Once you’ve selected the destination you’d like to visit, get Googling caravan sites in the area. Demand this year is likely to be high due to the pandemic making holidays abroad unlikely, so be sure to secure your pitch soon to avoid disappointment. Go for a site that is in the area you want to be and that offers the amenities you’re looking for. Before you travel, double check for any localised COVID restrictions and confirm that the places you’re hoping to visit are open for business. Then enjoy!

Check out our caravan and motorhome ranges and keep in mind that we stock a range of awnings and accessories if there’s anything you need for your upcoming trip. Get in touch or pop in if you’d more information on anything leisure-vehicle related!

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