Devon
· GB

Devon

Devon, United Kingdom

Escape to Devon: Where Rugged Coasts Meet Rolling Hills Craving dramatic landscapes, charming towns, and a taste of authentic England? Look no further than Devon, a county in southwest England brimming with natural beaut…

#Southwest England#Coastal#Rural#Historic#English countryside
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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Devon.

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Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Devon.

Currency
£ | GBP | Pound Sterling
Population
1.2 million
Languages
English, Cornish

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Devon.

What people love

Here are some pros of traveling to Devon, United Kingdom:

  1. Stunning Coastline: Devon is known for its beautiful coastline, with picturesque beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns. Visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, hiking along the South West Coast Path, or simply relaxing on the beach.

  2. Rich History and Heritage: Devon is steeped in history, with numerous historic sites and attractions to explore. These include ancient castles, stately homes, and quaint villages that offer a glimpse into the region's past.

  3. Outdoor Activities: Devon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and water sports. The region's diverse landscapes, including Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park, provide endless possibilities for outdoor adventures.

  4. Delicious Food and Drink: Devon is known for its delicious local produce, including fresh seafood, traditional cream teas, and award-winning cheeses. Visitors can sample these culinary delights at local eateries, farmers' markets, and food festivals throughout the region.

  5. Quaint Villages and Towns: Devon is home to many charming villages and towns that exude quintessential English charm. From the historic city of Exeter to the picturesque fishing village of Clovelly, there are plenty of delightful places to explore and discover.

Overall, traveling to Devon offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, rich history, outdoor activities, delicious food, and charming villages, making it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

What to know

Traveling to Devon, located in the United Kingdom, can have a few potential cons:

  1. Weather: Devon, like much of the UK, can have unpredictable weather with frequent rain and cloudy days. This can impact outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.

  2. Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, popular areas in Devon can get crowded, especially coastal towns and beaches. This may lead to longer wait times, difficulty finding accommodation, and less peaceful surroundings.

  3. Transportation: Public transportation in rural parts of Devon may not be as frequent or well-connected as in urban areas. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the region fully, which can be costly for some travelers.

  4. Cost: Devon is known for being a popular tourist destination, which can lead to higher prices for accommodation, dining, and activities compared to other parts of the UK.

  5. Limited nightlife: If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Devon may not offer as many options compared to larger cities like London or Manchester.

Overall, while Devon is a beautiful and charming destination with plenty to offer, it's essential to consider these potential cons when planning your trip.

Devon, located in the southwest of England, is a county with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Here's a detailed overview of its history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Prehistoric Era: Devon has evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region is known for its ancient sites like the Dartmoor stone circles and burial mounds, which suggest early human settlement.
  • Roman Era: The Romans invaded Britain in AD 43 and established some presence in Devon, although the area was not as heavily Romanized as other parts of Britain. The Fosse Way, a Roman road, passed through the region.

Medieval Period

  • Saxon and Norman Conquests: During the Saxon era, Devon became part of the Kingdom of Wessex. After the Norman Conquest in 1066, Devon was significant for its strategic location and fertile land. Many castles, such as Exeter and Okehampton, were built during this time.
  • Domesday Book: Devon was extensively documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, reflecting its importance in medieval England.

Significant Events

  • Tudor and Stuart Periods: Devon played a role in the maritime ventures during the Tudor period. Sir Francis Drake, a notable figure from Devon, was instrumental in defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588.
  • English Civil War: Devon was a site of conflict during the English Civil War in the mid-17th century. Exeter was a Royalist stronghold until it fell to the Parliamentarians in 1646.

Industrial Era

  • Agriculture and Industry: Devon remained primarily agricultural, but the Industrial Revolution brought changes, with mining (tin and copper) and woolen industries becoming important.
  • Railways: The development of railways in the 19th century connected Devon more closely with the rest of England, boosting tourism and trade.

20th and 21st Centuries

  • World Wars: Devon was affected by both World Wars, with Plymouth being heavily bombed during World War II due to its naval base.
  • Modern Era: Today, Devon is known for its natural beauty, including two coastlines and national parks (Dartmoor and Exmoor), attracting tourists from around the world.

Historical Figures

  • Sir Francis Drake: Born near Tavistock, he was a famed explorer and naval hero.
  • Sir Walter Raleigh: Another notable figure from Devon, known for his exploration of the Americas and introduction of tobacco and potatoes to England.
  • Agatha Christie: The famous mystery writer was born in Torquay, Devon.

Important Landmarks

  • Exeter Cathedral: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, it is one of the most famous landmarks in Devon.
  • Dartmoor National Park: Known for its rugged landscapes and archaeological sites.
  • Plymouth Hoe: Famous for its association with Sir Francis Drake and its views over Plymouth Sound.
  • Tarr Steps: An ancient clapper bridge on Exmoor, demonstrating early engineering techniques.

Devon has a rich tapestry of history shaped by its geography, maritime heritage, and strategic significance throughout centuries. It remains a vibrant part of the United Kingdom, celebrated for its historical and natural attractions.