Things to Do in Devon: Attractions, Days Out & Places to Visit

Devon’s top attractions

Devon's attractions range from historic buildings and museums to animal parks, gardens and family adventure attractions.

You could explore a castle or National Trust historic house, learn more about Devon's past in a museum, visit a wildlife attraction, zoo, or spend the day exploring one of the county's many outdoor attractions.

There are also plenty of more unusual experiences to discover, including exploring the prehistoric underground caves at Kents Cavern in Torquay.

Family days out in Devon

Devon is a great destination for family days out, with plenty of attractions and outdoor activities for children of all ages.

Beaches are an obvious choice when the weather is good, while soft play centres, leisure farms, wildlife parks and adventure activities provide plenty of alternatives.

For something a little different, Kents Cavern offers the chance to explore underground and discover more about prehistoric Devon. The visit also includes the Ice Age Woodland Trail, making it possible to combine the caves with some outdoor exploring.

If you're looking for more inspiration, take a look at our guide to family days out in South Devon.

Historical attractions in Devon

Devon has a fascinating history, stretching from prehistoric times through to its maritime and Victorian heritage, with castles, abbeys, historic houses and museums to explore throughout the county.

At Kents Cavern, you can step much further back in time. The caves contain evidence of prehistoric humans and Ice Age animals, while the surrounding rock formed around 400 million years ago.

Other historic places worth exploring include Powderham Castle, Buckfast Abbey and Greenway, Agatha Christie's former holiday home.

Indoor and rainy-day activities in Devon

Devon's weather isn't always predictable, but luckily there are plenty of things to do when the rain arrives.

Museums, galleries, indoor attractions and historic sites all make good alternatives to a day at the beach.

Kents Cavern is another option for a rainy day. The caves maintain a temperature of around 14°C throughout the year, meaning you can explore underground whatever the weather is doing outside.

For more ideas, take a look at our guides to indoor activities in Devon and rainy-day things to do in Devon.

Things to Do in South Devon

South Devon combines seaside towns, like the world-famous Torquay, home to Kents Cavern, beaches, countryside, historic attractions and coastal walks.

Explore the English Riviera around Torquay, Paignton and Babbacombe, head further south to Dartmouth and Salcombe, or discover some of the quieter coastal villages and beaches along the way.

The South West Coast Path is another great way to explore the area, with routes offering spectacular views across the coastline, each varying in distance and difficulty for the whole family to enjoy.

For more ideas, see our guide to things to do in South Devon.