Places to visit on the weekend: Devon

With warmer days upon us and summer just around the corner, you may be thinking ahead to a trip away, and a weekend in Devon may just be the ideal destination. Known to Britons as the English Riviera, a holiday to Devon can offer both countryside and coastline, ancient ruins and modern shopping centres, as well as a vast range of adrenaline-filled activities that are perfect for visitors of any age. Devon is undoubtedly one of England’s most beautiful counties with its rural countryside and sandy beaches being some of the main attractions bringing thousands of visitors to it every year.

Devon coast

Where to go

Luxury Devon holidays are quickly becoming popular amongst Britons looking for a student staycation in the UK and that’s not surprising considering the vast sandy beaches and windy moors that attract so many. Its beautiful coast provides 450 miles of beaches, whilst inland you’ll find quaint villages and bustling market towns. But where should one go for a weekend away? For students looking for a holiday close to home, Salcombe may just be the perfect choice. During the summer months, the climate in South Devon can be almost Mediterranean which is why so many flock to Salcombe, and the beautiful South Sands beach for a weekend away. The beach itself is one of the most unspoilt beaches in Devon and is a haven for anyone who wants to explore. The little coves and white sands offers days of fun, and better still, if you visit during the annual regatta, you’ll be treated to crabbing, sandcastle competitions, games of tug and war and an impressive firework display.

Devonshire Activities

Keen surfers and paddleboarders will do well to visit Croyde which is full of old-world charm and is where the beautiful beach in Croyde Bay can be found. The white sandy dunes and glistening sea are what pull many visitors to the area, whilst the amazing views at Lundy Island make it a magical place to explore. For avid walkers and mountain bikers, Exmoor is the perfect choice thanks to its spectacular coastal views and wide beautiful woodlands. Ilfracombe on the other hand is a peaceful harbour town which art fans will love - it’s currently the home to Damien Hurst’s 66 foot bronze statue, VerityHorse riding devon

Things to do

Devon is the biggest county in the South-West of England and home to some of the country’s most well-known attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away to historic buildings or a fun trip guaranteed to entertain you and your friends, there is plenty of things to do and see in Devon. Up high on the list of things to do in Devon is Greenway, Agatha Christie’s private holiday home on the River Dart. The house is frozen in time and visitors can explore the place where she sought inspiration for her books. Part-guided, wander the shelves lined with first edition books, see archaeological finds and explore the beautiful settings and gardens. Wildlife lovers will want to visit the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, the largest aquarium in the UK. It boasts the largest and deepest tank in the UK and houses the most species of sharks and rays. Whilst in Plymouth, we recommend visitors head down to the historic harbour area where one can capture a glimpse of what Plymouth might have looked like before the bombers of Luftwaffe had their way. Keen foodies may wish to visit River Cottage HQ. Chef Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall’s restaurant, where visitors can enjoy cookery courses and unique dining experiences as well as breathtaking views.

devon

Beaches in Devon

The beaches of Devon prove that this summer, holidays don’t have to be abroad to experience sandy beaches, vast coastlines and sandy seas to enjoy water sports and relaxing in the sun. These are our top picks of Devon beaches:

Croyde Bay Beach
Watacombe Beach
Woolacombe Beach
Batham Beach
Soar Mill Cover
South Sands Beach

Where to stay

Whether you want to stay in a luxury hotel with all the mod-cons or a self-catered cottage for a home away from home, Devon offers an extensive range of places to stay. Hotels in Devon come in the form of unique little B&Bs, quaint pubs and inviting cottages which one can choose from once they choose their destination in Devon.

We think that Devon could be the ideal destination for students looking to get away from the city and recharge their batteries, especially at such a crucial time before exams and dissertations are likely to start to get quite intense. Why not take a few friends and sample some of the south coast’s delights and come back ready and raring to go?