Ordnance Survey Map Devon
Devon, located in the southwest of England, is a county that boasts of picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. Exploring Devon can be an unforgettable experience, and with the Ordnance Survey Map, navigating through the region can be an absolute breeze. Here is a comprehensive travel guide for Devon that covers all the top attractions and hidden gems, foodie scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, historical landmarks, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions and Hidden Gems
Devon is packed with a myriad of attractions that cater to the interests of every traveler. Some of the top attractions include the stunning Dartmoor National Park, the historic Exeter Cathedral, and the charming fishing village of Clovelly. If you are looking for hidden gems, head to the Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe, the quirky village of Widecombe in the Moor or the secluded Hallsands beach in Kingsbridge.
Foodie Scene
Devon is famous for its fresh seafood, cream teas, and artisanal cheeses. Some of the must-try dishes include the Exeter ale pie, Devonshire splits, and the Plymouth gin. You can indulge in some delicious food at the River Cottage Kitchen in Axminster, the Puffing Billy in Exton, or the Crab Shack in Teignmouth.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Devon can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. Opt for a self-catering accommodation, buy food from local farmers’ markets, and use public transport instead of hiring a car. Many of the attractions in Devon are free, including the beaches, parks, and museums.
Outdoor Adventures
Devon is a paradise for adventure seekers. You can go hiking in Dartmoor, surfing at Croyde Bay, kayaking in the River Dart, or rock climbing in the Torbay. For a more leisurely experience, take a stroll along the South West Coast Path or cycle along the Tarka Trail.
Family-Friendly Activities
Devon is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities for kids. Some of the top attractions for families include the Crealy Adventure Park, the Milky Way Adventure Park, and the Paignton Zoo. You can also take a trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway or explore the underground caves at Kents Cavern.
Historical Landmarks
Devon is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks that showcase its rich heritage. You can visit the medieval Tintagel Castle, the Roman Baths in Bath, or the Elizabethan Buckland Abbey. For a more recent history, head to the Royal William Yard in Plymouth or the Coldharbour Mill Museum in Cullompton.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for something different, Devon has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. You can take a trip to the Gnome Reserve in West Putford, go fossil hunting in Charmouth, or take a dip in the geothermal waters of the Tinside Lido in Plymouth.
Natural Wonders
Devon is blessed with natural wonders that are worth exploring. You can visit the stunning beaches of Woolacombe, Saunton Sands, or Bantham. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a must-visit. For a unique experience, head to the Dartmoor’s Wistman’s Wood, a mystical forest with ancient oak trees.
Vibrant Nightlife
Devon has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in its cities like Exeter and Plymouth. You can enjoy live music at the Cavern Club in Exeter, sip cocktails at the Refectory Bar in Plymouth, or dance the night away at the Timepiece Nightclub in Exeter.
Local Markets
Devon has a rich agricultural heritage, and its farmers’ markets are a great way to experience the local produce. You can visit the Exeter Farmers Market, the Totnes Good Food Market, or the Tavistock Farmers Market. You can also visit the Barnstaple Pannier Market, which has been running since the 1850s.
Beaches and Mountains
Devon has a diverse landscape that includes both beaches and mountains. You can visit the stunning beaches of Bantham and Woolacombe or go hiking in the Dartmoor National Park. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the coastline, while the Tarka Trail takes you through the beautiful countryside.
Cultural Immersion
Devon has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. You can visit the Dartington Hall, a cultural center that hosts music, theater, and art events. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter showcases the region’s history and culture, while the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery has an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
Art and Music Scene
Devon has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of events throughout the year. You can catch a show at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth, attend an exhibition at the Exeter Phoenix, or listen to live music at the Plymouth Pavilions. The Dartmoor Arts Project is also worth checking out if you are interested in the arts.
Walking Tours
Devon is an ideal destination for walking tours, with plenty of trails and guided walks available. You can take a literary walk in Agatha Christie’s footsteps in Torquay, explore the historic city of Exeter on a walking tour, or hike along the South West Coast Path.
Architectural Marvels
Devon has plenty of architectural marvels that are worth visiting. The Royal Citadel in Plymouth is a 17th-century fortress that overlooks the Plymouth Sound. The Stover Country Park has a beautiful Georgian mansion, while the Arlington Court is a Regency-style mansion set in a picturesque garden.
Historical Sites
Devon has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites that you can visit. The Buckfast Abbey is a beautiful Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 11th century. The Powderham Castle is a stunning castle that has been the home of the Earl of Devon for over 600 years. You can also visit the National Trust’s Castle Drogo, a 20th-century castle designed by the famous architect Edwin Lutyens.
Biking Routes
Devon has some of the best biking routes in the UK, with plenty of trails that cater to all levels of bikers. The Granite and Gears trail takes you through Dartmoor’s rugged terrain, while the Tarka Trail is a gentle route that takes you through the beautiful countryside. The Plym Valley Trail is also worth checking out if you are looking for a challenging ride.
Wellness Retreats
Devon is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of spas and wellness centers that offer a range of treatments. You can visit the Gaia Spa at the Boringdon Hall Hotel in Plymouth, the Salcombe Harbour Hotel and Spa, or the Bovey Castle Spa in Dartmoor National Park.
Adventure Sports
Devon is an ideal destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for water sports, rock climbing, and more. You can go coasteering in the Torbay, try your hand at kite surfing in Croyde Bay, or go bouldering in the Dartmoor National Park.
Devon is a destination that has something for everyone, and with the Ordnance Survey Map, exploring the region can be a fun and easy experience. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Devon has it all.