This to do in Devon this Autumn
Autumn is a brilliant time to explore Devon. The summer crowds have started to disappear, the countryside takes on its golden and russet colours, and there are still plenty of mild days when you can get outside and enjoy Devon
… and when the weather does turn typically Devonian, there are plenty of indoor attractions, cafés and activities to keep you entertained too.
Whether you're planning a family day out, looking for things to do during October half term, or simply want to make the most of a crisp autumn weekend, here’s a roundup of some of the best things to do in Devon in autumn.
Enjoy an autumn walk along the South West Coast Path
Autumn can be one of the best seasons for walking in Devon. The temperatures are often comfortable for a good walk, while the changing light and quieter coastlines can make for some spectacular views.
The South West Coast Path runs around the Devon coastline, with plenty of beautiful sections to explore around Torquay and South Devon.
Near Kents Cavern, you can head towards Thatcher Point, Hope's Nose and Anstey's Cove, taking in views across the English Riviera along the way. Some sections are steep and rocky, so sensible footwear is recommended, particularly after wet weather. Kents Cavern's guide to local coastal walks in Devon includes several routes and ideas for exploring the coastline nearby.
And if you're heading out for a longer walk, Kents Cavern is close to the Coast Path, making it a handy place to stop for a coffee, lunch or something sweet in our on-site café, the Firestone Kitchen.
Explore Devon's autumn countryside
You don't have to stick to the coast to enjoy autumn in Devon. Head inland and you'll find woodland, countryside and open landscapes that are particularly beautiful as the seasons change.
A walk through woodland is a great way to enjoy the changing colours, while Dartmoor offers plenty of opportunities for autumn walks and fresh-air adventures.
For families, autumn is also a good excuse to get outside before the colder winter weather arrives. Wrap up warm, bring wellies if the forecast looks wet and make a day of exploring somewhere new.
South Devon has everything from beaches and countryside to attractions, museums, walks and family-friendly activities, so there's plenty of choice whatever the weather.
Visit Kents Cavern whatever the weather
Of course, autumn in Devon doesn't always mean sunshine and blue skies! That's where having a few weather-proof days out in South Devon up your sleeve comes in handy.
Kents Cavern is open throughout the year, and the caves remain at a constant 14°C whatever the weather is doing outside. The underground caves offer a chance to explore 400-million-year-old rocks, cave formations and evidence of prehistoric life, making it a very different kind of day out.
It's also a particularly good option when you're looking for somewhere to go on a rainy day. You can explore the caves before heading back above ground to enjoy the Woodland Trail, making it possible to combine an indoor attraction with a little fresh air when the weather allows.
If you're planning a visit, it's worth checking the Kents Cavern Plan Your Visit page before setting off for information about tickets, opening times, accessibility and what to expect.
Make the most of a rainy day in Devon
If there's one thing you can guarantee about autumn in Devon, it's that you'll probably encounter a shower or two!
Luckily, rainy weather doesn't mean your day out has to be cancelled. Devon has plenty of indoor attractions, from museums and galleries to historic buildings, family attractions and, of course, underground caves.
If you're visiting with children, take a look at our guide to rainy day things to do in Devon with kids for more ideas.
We've also put together a guide to indoor activities in Devon with kids, with suggestions for those days when the weather simply isn't playing ball.
Stop for lunch or a cosy autumn treat
A good day out deserves good food - especially when you've spent the morning walking in the autumn air!
The Firestone Kitchen at Kents Cavern is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea, with selected evening openings too. It's also open to everyone, so you don't need to visit the caves to stop by for something to eat.
It's a useful pit stop if you're exploring the nearby coast, too. The café is just a short detour from the South West Coast Path, so you can warm up with a coffee or stop for lunch before continuing your walk.
Plan a family day out for October half term
October half term is a popular time for family days out, and South Devon has plenty to keep children entertained during the school break.
If you're looking for something that works whatever the weather, an underground adventure at Kents Cavern can be combined with the Stone Age-themed Woodland Trail and Ice Age Animal hunt.
It's also worth checking what's happening locally during the school holidays, as South Devon has events and activities taking place throughout the year.
Looking for something a little different this Halloween?
This Halloween, Kents Cavern’s Trick or Treat Trail will be coming to the caves from 17th October – 1st November. Follow the trail throughout, complete the Halloween-themed challenges and discover whether a trick or a treat is waiting around the next corner…
It’s a fun-filled, family-friendly adventure for both children and grown-ups – all set within Devon’s oldest caves!
Taking place from mid-October into early November 2026, you can also explore the darker side of the caves through stories of ancient rites, folklore, witches and traditions from Devon's past with a ‘Go Darker’ guided tour.
It's aimed at visitors who enjoy their history with a darker edge, making it a particularly atmospheric addition to a Halloween visit.
So if you're planning an October half-term day out and want something a little different from the usual Halloween activities, it's worth taking a look at what's happening at Kents Cavern during your visit.
Combine a cave visit with a coastal walk
One of the best things about visiting this part of Devon is that you don't necessarily have to choose between an indoor attraction and getting outside.
You could start your day with a walk along the coast, explore the caves at Kents Cavern, then finish with lunch or afternoon tea at Firestone Kitchen.
Alternatively, head to Kents Cavern first, explore the caves and Woodland Trail, and then continue towards the coast while the weather is looking good.
The nearby Thatcher Point to Anstey's Cove route takes in coastal scenery, woodland and views across the bay, while other local routes explore the cliffs and coves around Babbacombe. Just bear in mind that some of the coastal paths are steep and can become slippery in wet conditions.
Make the most of autumn in Devon
From crisp coastal walks and colourful woodland to prehistoric caves, cosy cafés and Halloween adventures, there's plenty to enjoy in Devon once summer is over.
The key to a successful autumn day out is simply having a plan B. If the sun is shining, make the most of the South West Coast Path. If the rain arrives, swap the walking boots for an indoor attraction. And if you're visiting during October half term, look out for seasonal events and activities happening across South Devon.
Whatever the forecast has in store, Kents Cavern makes a great base for an autumn day out, with the caves, Woodland Trail, Firestone Kitchen and nearby coast all within easy reach.
Ready to plan your visit? Find out everything you need to know about visiting Kents Cavern, including opening information, tickets and facilities, on our Plan Your Visit page.
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