So not only can we give you the most wonderful views and an abundance of things to do in Plymouth and Torquay, South Devon also offers you even more to explore. Here’s a sample of what we think will tempt you.
Dartmoor
What better place to start that the rugged landscape of Dartmoor National Park. A vast moorland located right in the heart of Devon; Dartmoor has something to offer for everyone. Ponies roam free on its craggy landscape, and Dartmoor is defined by forests, rivers, wetlands and tors. Apart from the spectacular walks, why not visit these attractions:
Becky Falls: Centred around a waterfall of around 20 metres, this attraction also offers 50 acres of woodland, mini children’s zoo, free animal shows, woodland trail and year-round activities.
Buckfast Abbey: Is home to a community of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks, who live their lives of prayer, work and study. At the heart of the site is the Abbey Church and Monastery. Here you will find beautiful, spacious gardens, a restaurant, multiple shops and a conference centre. After you have wandered around the Abbey why not sample the famous Buckfast Tonic Wine made by the monks.
Dartmoor Prison Museum: Visit and learn about life inside one of the world’s most famous and notorious jails. The museum attracts more than 35,000 visitors every year from all over the world. There are many artefacts and documents. Among the most famous prisoners at Dartmoor was Frank Mitchell (the ‘Mad Axeman’) who escaped and despite the biggest manhunt ever mounted on the moor was never recaptured.
Dartmoor Zoological Park: is a 30-acre zoo, which opened in 1968 and is located 15 minutes away from Plymouth. This zoo inspired the book and film ‘We Brought a Zoo’ by the then owner Benjamin Mee. You will find an array of animals including jaguars, tigers and tapir.
This is just a snippet of what Dartmoor has to offer and there are many wonderful village pubs (including the Warren Inn which has been opened since 1845, to local cafes serving up the famous Devon Cream Tea including the Café on the Green at Widdicombe. If you were really brave you could do a trail of all its mysterious tales from Jays Grave to the Hairy Hand to the Hound of the Baskervilles.
Surrounding Towns and Villages:
There are so many pretty little fishing villages and market towns to explore here are our top three we recommend a visit to in the South Hams area:
Salcombe: Sitting on the banks of the Kingsbridge Estuary lays the beautiful coastal town of Salcombe, it is known for its outstanding views and surrounding countryside. Allowing you to experience small white sandy beaches all year round is the passenger ferry running from Salcombe’s Jubilee Pier to East Portlemouth. The ferry takes you to the small village where you can unwind or explore the various coves dotted throughout. Perched just behind the harbour you’ll find some of Salcombe’s award-winning ice cream at Salcombe Dairy and to finish the day off.
Totnes: Situated at the head of the River Dart Estuary is the eccentric market town of Totnes. This relaxed countryside town is known for its unique and charming way. Small independent retailers are scattered throughout Totnes, with inspiring art galleries, shops selling alternative therapies and weekly markets adding to the towns fascinating history. As well as its other markets and food stalls, Civil Hall Square holds an Elizabethan market every Tuesday morning. One of the most notable attractions is Totnes Castle. The classic motte and bailey castle gives sweeping views over the rooftops to the River Dart. You can also experience an unforgettable journey on the steam train all the way to Buckfastleigh.
Dartmouth: With the picturesque River Dart running alongside, Dartmouth is one of South Devon’s most popular towns perfect for a day visit. Dartmouth is home to the Britannia Royal Navy College where Prince Phillip first met Queen Elizabeth. There is a transport ferry running to the village of Kingswear, where the South West Coast Path can be met to enjoy some brisk coastal walks or get the Steam Train to Paignton. To complete your Dartmouth to-do list, take a walk out to Dartmouth Castle with spectacular views across the estuary and beyond.
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