A local's guide to Devon: Insider tips, hidden gems and favourite places from Devon locals

"Tavistock is one of our favourite towns in Devon and somewhere we find ourselves returning to time and again. Just a short drive from Wolf Wood, it's packed with independent shops, great places to eat and plenty of local character, making it the perfect place to spend a few hours exploring.

"Friendly, full of history and surrounded by beautiful countryside, Tavistock has a charm that's hard to resist. It's an ancient stannary town, widely regarded as the birthplace of the cream tea, and is the only town in Devon to hold UNESCO World Heritage status. But despite its impressive history, it never feels stuffy or overly touristy – it's a proper working market town with a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere.

"What we love most about Tavistock is that it still feels genuinely independent. While many high streets are becoming increasingly alike, Tavistock is full of unique shops, cafés and restaurants that give the town a real sense of identity.

"A wander around the historic Pannier Market is always a highlight. It's a great place to browse local crafts, artisan products and gifts, and we rarely leave empty-handed. If you're a foodie, there are plenty of temptations too. We love popping into Country Cheeses for some of the best local cheeses around, browsing the seasonal produce at Roots and Vines, and stocking up on treats from the fantastic de la Torre's deli.

"For a town of its size, Tavistock also has an impressive food scene. Two of our regular favourites are Aroma Mediterranean Café and The Cornish Arms – both perfect spots to refuel after a morning of exploring.

"Its location on the edge of Dartmoor also makes Tavistock an ideal stop on the way back to Wolf Wood after a day on the moor. In fact, one of our favourite wild swimming spots, Double Waters on the River Tavy, is just outside town.

"Whether you're browsing the market, enjoying a leisurely lunch or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Tavistock is the kind of place where you plan to stay for an hour and somehow end up spending the whole afternoon."

"We love Instow. With its stunning estuary views, sandy beach and easy accessibility, it’s the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon by the water. Ideal for a long dog walk, it’s also home to excellent local favourites, including Johns of Instow for coffee and deli treats, and The Boathouse, with its rooftop terrace overlooking the estuary.

"Clovelly feels like a village frozen in time. One of Devon’s most unique destinations, its steep cobbled street winds down to a picturesque harbour, where you'll find beautiful coastal views and a traditional Devon pub right on the waterfront.

"Despite being just across the border in Cornwall, we wanted to mention Bude. Bude is a charming seaside town with a fantastic choice of sandy beaches, making it a favourite for surfers and beach lovers alike. Alongside its stunning coastline, you'll find plenty of independent shops, cafés and local businesses to explore."

"Sitting on the south-eastern edge of Dartmoor, Ashburton is one of our favourite towns to visit. It has such a peaceful, relaxed feel about it and is somewhere we always enjoy spending time. It's well known for its antique shops, but you'll also find a wonderful selection of independent businesses selling unique gifts, homewares and local products. The Old Library is also one of our all-time favourite coffee shops and always worth a stop.

"Aside from the usual city bustle, Exeter is packed with history and fascinating places to explore. From the famous House That Moved and charming cobbled streets to the spectacular cathedral, there's plenty to see. You can tour the underground passages, visit the historic quayside or explore the ancient city walls and Rougemont Castle grounds. Whether you're interested in history, shopping or food, there's something for everyone.

"Topsham is a quaint town just outside Exeter. In some ways it reminds us of Ashburton, although it's a little busier. It has wonderful independent shops, a great selection of cafés and coffee shops, and beautiful views across the estuary. If you're visiting on a Saturday morning, the market in the town hall is well worth a look too.

"Totnes is a wonderfully quirky town, full of independent shops, excellent cafés and great restaurants. It's steeped in history and makes a brilliant place to spend a day exploring, eating and shopping. We highly recommend taking the ferry to Greenway, the former home of Agatha Christie, and visiting nearby Dartmouth too. Alf Resco is one of our favourite breakfast spots, while Riverford Field Kitchen is well worth booking for a memorable dining experience on the way home."

"Belstone is one of our absolute favourite places in Devon, and somewhere we recommend to visitors time and time again. This tiny, unspoilt Dartmoor village feels wonderfully untouched by time. The Tors Inn alone is worth the trip, with what might just be the best pub view in Devon. Sitting right on the edge of the moor, it's the sort of rustic pub that serves hearty pies and proper pub food, while Dartmoor ponies wander past outside. In summer, they open 'The Shed', a burger pop-up bar, and it's not unusual to see people arrive on horseback and tie up their horses outside. It's that kind of place.

"From Belstone, there are plenty of circular walks across the moor, depending on how energetic you're feeling. You can visit the Bronze Age Nine Maidens Stone Circle, climb Belstone Tor or even stop for a wild swim at Cullever Steps before heading back to the pub. For us, Belstone is the perfect Devon day out wrapped up in one beautiful village.

"Chagford is another place we love. It's a bustling little market town that punches well above its weight, with an excellent collection of independent shops. Whether you're stocking up at the dairy, butcher or wine shop, or picking up bread and cakes from Beachwood Bakery, there's always something worth discovering. We also love browsing at The Dartmoor Shepherd, a family-run business creating beautiful sheepskin products from their rare-breed flocks. Fair warning though — it's almost impossible to leave empty-handed.

"In the summer months, Chagford also has a lovely river-fed lido that's open to the public, while The Chagford Inn serves excellent award-winning food and is well worth a visit. It's also a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding area, whether that's a walk on Dartmoor or a trip to nearby Fingle Bridge or Castle Drogo."

"Black-a-Tor Copse is one of those places that feels like you've stumbled across a secret. Tucked away beneath Dartmoor's highest peaks, Yes Tor and High Willhays, this rare ancient oak woodland is one of the few remaining temperate rainforests in Britain—and one of our favourite places to escape to on the moor.

"Remote, peaceful and wonderfully wild, it's the sort of place that reminds you just how special Dartmoor can be. If you're looking to experience a quieter, less-visited side of the national park, this is it.

"What we love most about Black-a-Tor Copse is the atmosphere. Twisted oak trees draped in mosses, lichens and wisps of old man's beard cling to the valley sides, while huge granite boulders are scattered across the woodland floor. With the West Okement River winding its way through the trees, it feels almost like stepping into a fairytale.

"On a misty morning, the whole place takes on an almost magical quality. It's easy to see why the woodland is often compared to the much more famous Wistman's Wood. The difference is that you're likely to share Black-a-Tor Copse with only a handful of other walkers—or sometimes no one at all.

"For us, that's part of its appeal. There's something special about wandering through the trees in near silence, listening to the river and feeling completely immersed in nature. It captures everything we love about Dartmoor: rugged beauty, a sense of adventure and the feeling that you might discover something extraordinary around the next corner.

"Most people start their walk from Meldon Reservoir near Okehampton, although you can also approach from Sourton Down. Either way, the journey is part of the experience, with some of Dartmoor's most dramatic landscapes unfolding around you as you walk."

"Speke's Mill Mouth Waterfall is one of those places that never fails to impress, no matter how many times we visit. The walk from Hartland Quay only takes around 20 minutes, but it feels like a real adventure, following dramatic stretches of the South West Coast Path with incredible sea views all the way.

"What we love most is the sense of discovery. You can hear the waterfall before you see it, and then suddenly it appears, cascading down the cliffs and straight onto the beach below. After heavy rain it's particularly spectacular, with water thundering down the rock face towards the sea.

"It's a wonderfully wild and unspoilt spot, tucked away from the crowds and surrounded by some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Devon. We always recommend it to visitors looking to experience a quieter side of the county and one of the most memorable walks along this stretch of coastline."

"Woodbury Common is one of our favourite places to escape into nature. Located just outside Exeter, this vast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers spectacular views, wide open heathland and a real sense of peace and space. It's regularly used as a training ground by the Royal Marines, which gives you an idea of just how expansive it is. The heathland is home to more than 70 breeding bird species, and there's even an Iron Age hill fort dating back to around 500–300 BC. It's usually wonderfully quiet and perfect for a long walk surrounded by nature.

"Canonteign Falls is a place we never tire of visiting. Set within 90 acres of beautiful countryside on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, it's home to one of England's highest waterfalls, plunging an impressive 220 feet down the hillside. The walk to the top takes you through ancient woodland, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. It's a fairly steep climb, but the views are more than worth the effort. Beyond the waterfall itself, there are lakes, fern gardens and peaceful meadows to explore, making it easy to spend a few hours here. There's also a lovely café on site if you fancy a well-earned coffee afterwards."

"The walk from Meldon Reservoir to Black-a-Tor Copse is probably our favourite walk on Dartmoor and one we think is hugely underrated. Starting at the reservoir, the route follows the water before heading out onto the open moor and tracing the river upstream to Black-a-Tor Copse. This ancient temperate rainforest feels like something from a storybook, with moss-covered trees, huge boulders and an almost magical atmosphere. On a warm day, we often stop for a swim in the river before reaching the copse. From there, you can continue up to Black-a-Tor itself before looping back to the reservoir. For us, it's close to a perfect day out, especially when finished with a well-earned drink at The Tors Inn in nearby Belstone.

"We often recommend this walk as an alternative to Wistman's Wood. While Wistman's is undeniably beautiful, it has become much busier in recent years. Black-a-Tor Copse offers the same sense of ancient magic and wilderness, but with far fewer people.

"Cullever Steps is another spot we love. Tucked away in a beautiful corner of north Dartmoor, this natural swimming pool is one of the best places on the moor for a wild dip. The water is cold, crystal clear and incredibly refreshing on a hot day. While it isn't especially deep, there's plenty of room for a proper swim. You can visit as part of the Belstone circular walk or, if you're just after a quick dip, park near Okehampton Camp and take a short walk to the pool.

"Shilly Pool is our top-secret local swimming spot near South Zeal. We share the location with guests staying at Nymetwood, but it's not signposted and we'd quite like to keep it that way. What makes it so special are the smooth granite rocks that create a natural waterslide into the plunge pool below. It's the perfect place for a picnic, a swim and a sunset on a warm evening. Afterwards, we often head to the historic Oxenham Arms for a drink. It's one of those rare places that feels like you've discovered a hidden corner of Dartmoor all to yourself."

"Mothecombe is one of those beaches that feels like a real hidden gem. Tucked away in the beautiful South Hams, it’s a place we often recommend to guests looking for a quieter stretch of coastline away from some of Devon’s busier seaside spots.

"Getting there is all part of the charm. From the car park, it’s a scenic 10–15 minute walk through woodland and open countryside before the beach comes into view. Perhaps it’s this little extra effort that helps Mothecombe retain such a peaceful, unspoilt feel.

"What we love most about Mothecombe is the sense of space and tranquillity. Surrounded by rolling countryside and overlooking the beautiful Erme Estuary, it feels wonderfully secluded and far removed from the crowds.

"If you enjoy a walk, the coastal paths around Mothecombe offer stunning views across the estuary towards Wonwell Beach and some of the most beautiful scenery in this part of Devon. We often find ourselves lingering a little longer than planned, simply because it’s such a lovely place to explore.

"And before heading home, we’d highly recommend stopping at The Schoolhouse. It’s one of our favourite nearby spots for a relaxed lunch or early supper, serving delicious locally sourced food in a welcoming countryside setting.

"For us, Mothecombe is everything a South Devon beach should be — beautiful, peaceful and just a little bit off the beaten track."

"Sandymouth is probably one of our favourite beaches in North Devon. At low tide, the beach seems to go on forever, with huge stretches of sand that are perfect for long walks, whether you've got the dog with you or a bucket and spade in hand for the kids. What we love most is the setting – dramatic cliffs surround the beach and give it a really wild, unspoilt feel. We often make a whole day of it, starting with a walk along the coast path and finishing with a coffee and a slice of cake from the café overlooking the beach. It's one of those places we never get tired of visiting.

"Summerleaze is another that is always one of the first beaches we recommend to visitors. It's right on the edge of Bude, so you get the best of both worlds – a lovely sandy beach and all the cafés, shops and restaurants just a short walk away. The sea pool is a real favourite, especially if the tide is out or the sea is a little rough, and it's brilliant for families. There's usually a great atmosphere in the summer, with surfers in the water, people sunbathing on the sand and families enjoying the beach. It's the sort of place where you can easily arrive for a couple of hours and end up staying all day."

"Teignmouth Back Beach is one of those places we always find ourselves returning to. Sitting on the estuary side of town, opposite the main beach, it has a completely different feel to the seafront. The small sandy harbour is dotted with fishing boats, nets and crates, giving it a real sense of authenticity as a working port. Across the water, you can see the pretty village of Shaldon, while the views up the Teign Estuary towards Dartmoor are simply stunning.

"It's a lovely place to grab a coffee, pick up something from one of the street food stalls and just watch the world go by. We particularly love it at sunrise or sunset, when the light across the estuary is breathtaking. If you have time, we'd also recommend hopping on the passenger ferry over to Shaldon Beach, which feels like a hidden gem.

"Dawlish Warren is another favourite of ours. With its mile-and-a-half stretch of golden sand, sheltered dunes and award-winning clean waters, it's a fantastic beach for all sorts of days out. Backing onto the 500-acre Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve, it's also home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including hundreds of plant species and thousands of migratory birds.

"What we love most is the variety. Depending on our mood, we can spend time exploring the nature reserve, enjoy a long walk along the beach, try some of the family attractions, or simply sit and enjoy the scenery. While the main area can get busy in summer, the beach is so vast that it's always possible to find a quieter spot and enjoy a little peace and tranquillity."

"Croyde is a proper surf village and one of our favourite spots on the North Devon coast. The beautiful cove beach is the main attraction, but the village itself is well worth exploring too. There are great pubs, a brilliant pasty shop, the occasional pizza van popping up in summer, and a real sense of community that revolves around the beach and the waves. Whether you're learning to surf for the first time or you've been doing it for years, there's an energy about Croyde that makes it hard not to fall in love with the place.

"Saunton Sands offers something completely different. The vast stretch of golden sand seems to go on forever, backed by dunes and open skies that make the whole place feel wonderfully spacious. It's less about the village atmosphere and more about the beach itself. We love it for long walks, sunset strolls and simply taking in the scenery. Even on busy summer days, it somehow never feels as crowded as you'd expect. On a clear day, with the sun shining across the sand and sea, it's one of the most beautiful beaches in Devon."

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If you want to find out more about some of the best beaches Devon has to offer then read Coolstays' Guide to the Best Beaches in Devon today!

"Tucked away in the small village of Black Torrington, The Black River Inn is far from your typical country pub. Passionate about local produce and sustainability, this multi award-winning pub has built a reputation for doing things a little differently, and that's exactly why we love it.

"If you're expecting the usual pub menu, think again. The Black River Inn specialises in Devon tapas, with local ingredients cooked over a traditional solid fuel hearth to create a menu of delicious small plates designed for sharing.

"We love the relaxed, sociable style of dining here. Ordering a selection of dishes for the table feels wonderfully informal, and it's a great way to sample some of the best local produce the area has to offer. The flavours are creative, the ingredients are carefully sourced and there's always something a little different to try.

"On warmer days, the pub garden is a lovely spot to settle in for a long lunch, especially after a countryside walk. It's also very dog-friendly, making it an easy choice for those exploring Devon with four-legged companions.

"For us, The Black River Inn is one of those places that's worth seeking out. It's a welcoming village pub with great food, a unique approach and plenty of character."

"The Farmers Arms in Woolsery is always high on our list when friends or guests ask for restaurant recommendations. It's wonderfully dog friendly, which is a big plus for us, and has such a warm, welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk through the door. The food is consistently excellent, whether you're stopping by for a relaxed lunch or settling in for dinner, and everything feels thoughtfully done. We also love the interiors – stylish and beautifully designed without feeling pretentious. It's the sort of place where you can happily while away an afternoon and leave already planning your next visit.

"We also love The Royal George, which enjoys one of the best settings in North Devon. Sitting right on the water's edge in Appledore, it's the kind of place where you can spend hours watching the boats drift by while enjoying a leisurely meal. We love coming here for the views as much as the food, particularly on a sunny day when the estuary looks its best. The menu is packed with delicious options, with plenty of fresh local ingredients, and there's always a lovely relaxed atmosphere. For us, it's one of the best spots in the area for a long lunch or an evening meal by the water.

"The Boathouse in Instow is one of our favourite places for a special meal with a view. The rooftop terrace is undoubtedly the star of the show, offering fantastic views across the estuary that are particularly beautiful as the sun starts to set. We often recommend it to guests looking for somewhere to enjoy a cocktail before dinner or simply soak up the scenery. Thankfully, the food more than lives up to the setting, with a menu full of delicious dishes and plenty of local flavours. Great food, excellent cocktails and one of the best terraces in Devon make it a place we return to again and again."

"The Ley Arms in Kenn is our local pub and somewhere we recommend all the time. It's a traditional family-run thatched pub with the most beautiful warm, cosy interior and a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. It's particularly famous for its delicious Sunday roasts, and the food is always excellent, with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients. It's the sort of place where you instantly feel at home.

"The Turf is one of the most unique places to eat in the area. Tucked between the Exeter Ship Canal and the Exe Estuary, it can only be reached on foot or by boat, which makes every visit feel a little special. We love parking near Powderham Church and strolling along the canal to get there. The setting is hard to beat and there's always a lovely atmosphere, whether you're stopping for lunch or an evening drink by the water.

"Topsham Brewery's Exeter Taproom is one of our favourite spots for a relaxed evening. It's a cool, laid-back place with a fantastic selection of local ales and drinks. Add in the converted horsebox pizza trailer from Portal Pizza and it's a winning combination, particularly on a sunny evening when everyone is gathered outside enjoying the atmosphere.

"Darts Farm is much more than a farm shop and one of our favourite places to visit. As soon as you arrive, it's easy to see why it has won Farm Shop of the Year multiple times. We're particularly fond of breakfast in the main café, but there are so many great options to choose from throughout the day. The Farm Table is also a wonderful choice for dinner. We never seem to leave without picking up a few treats from the food hall too — it's our equivalent of popping to M&S for picky bits, only better.

"For a special meal, we'd highly recommend The View, close to Sandy Park in Exeter. This beautiful rooftop restaurant and bar serves exceptional food from highly regarded local chef Matt Mason. The menu showcases some of the region's finest local produce, and the views across Exeter make it feel like a real occasion. It's one of our favourite places for a long lunch or memorable evening meal."

"The Duck in Yeoford is one of our closest pubs and a real favourite. Don’t be fooled by its tiny village setting — the food here is seriously good. Run by the warm and welcoming Sarah and James, whose career has taken him through some incredible kitchens, The Duck has earned a brilliant reputation, including a place in the Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Pubs and a Muddy Devon Award. The Sunday roast is legendary, and they also do a Friday fish and chip takeaway, so it’s worth checking their Instagram for dates and opening times.

"The Tom Cobley in Spreyton is our local and one of the friendliest pubs in mid Devon. It’s famous for its cider, with an extraordinary range to choose from, and has a cosy front bar with an open fire. It’s the kind of pub that feels like it truly belongs to the village, rather than just existing for passing trade. For us, it’s exactly what a Devon pub should be.

"The Oxenham Arms in South Zeal is one of the most extraordinary pubs in England. This ancient inn has welcomed everyone from Charles Dickens and Sir Francis Drake to The Rolling Stones, David Bowie and Prince Charles, as he was then. There’s even a plaque above the seat where he sat in the main bar. The food is good, the staff are friendly, and it’s one of the few local places that serves food on a Sunday evening.

"Taw Valley Brewery in North Tawton is a brilliant super-local microbrewery, producing small-batch cask-conditioned ale in a medieval thatched barn in the heart of mid Devon. The taproom opens on Saturdays throughout the summer, and there’s often something going on, from live music to BBQs and homemade cider. It’s always worth checking their Instagram for the latest opening times and events.

"The River Exe Café is perfect for a special occasion. This floating restaurant on the Exe Estuary is open from April to September and feels like one of those genuinely unique Devon experiences. The seafood is excellent, as you’d expect, and getting there by taxi boat is all part of the adventure. The only problem is that it’s so good, you’ll need to book well in advance."

"Sharrah Pool is one of our favourite wild swimming spots on Dartmoor and, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful. Tucked away in a wooded valley on the River Dart, it feels wonderfully secluded and a world away from everyday life.

"Getting there is part of the adventure. Starting from Newbridge Car Park, cross the old stone bridge and follow the River Dart upstream on a scenic walk through ancient woodland, with glimpses of the river and granite boulders along the way.

"What makes Sharrah Pool so special is the setting. Surrounded by moss-covered rocks, ancient oak trees and lush greenery, the long, clear pool feels almost magical. On a sunny day, the water shimmers beneath the trees, inviting you in for a refreshing dip.

"We're always drawn to places that combine a beautiful walk with the chance for a swim, and Sharrah Pool delivers both. The water is crystal clear, cool and invigorating, and for the more adventurous, there are a few rocks that make perfect jumping spots.

"What we love most, though, is the atmosphere. As you float in the water, all you can hear is birdsong, the breeze in the trees and the gentle rush of the River Dart. It's the sort of place where you naturally slow down and lose track of time.

"For us, Sharrah Pool captures everything we love about Dartmoor—wild landscapes, peaceful woodland, crystal-clear rivers and the reward of a cold-water swim at the end of a beautiful walk."

"Hartland Quay is somewhere we find ourselves returning to time and time again. The drive there alone is memorable, with the road seeming to head straight towards the Atlantic before suddenly revealing one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in Devon.

"What we love most is the sheer scale of the landscape. Towering cliffs rise from the sea, waves crash against the rocks below and the views seem to stretch on forever. Even after countless visits, it still manages to take our breath away.

"It's also a fantastic starting point for a walk along the South West Coast Path, where every turn seems to reveal another spectacular view. On a wild, windy day it's exhilarating, while on calmer days it's the perfect place to sit and simply watch the ocean. For us, Hartland Quay is an absolute must-visit and one of the most awe-inspiring places on the North Devon coast."

"Alongside Woodbury Common, which we've already mentioned, we'd also recommend a visit to The Hub in Marsh Barton. It's a fantastic warehouse packed with independent traders selling antiques, vintage finds, unique gifts and all sorts of interesting treasures. We always seem to discover something unexpected when we visit, and it's the sort of place where you can easily lose track of time browsing. There's also a great coffee shop, making it an easy place to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon.

"The Haytor Quarry and Rocks Loop is another favourite of ours. This relatively easy four-mile walk takes in some of Dartmoor's most iconic scenery while also offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's industrial history. Lots of people climb Haytor Rocks for the panoramic views, and we particularly enjoy taking a picnic up there on a clear evening to watch the sunset. What many visitors miss, though, is Haytor Quarry itself. Tucked away nearby, it feels wonderfully peaceful and offers a chance to appreciate both the natural beauty and the history of the landscape. It's also a great walk for spotting Dartmoor's famous free-roaming ponies, as well as cattle and sheep grazing on the open moor.

"Haldon Forest is another place we love and one that's often overlooked by visitors heading straight for the coast. Whether you're looking for a scenic woodland walk, a mountain biking adventure or simply somewhere peaceful to spend a few hours in nature, there's plenty to enjoy here. The trails are well maintained, there's lots of wildlife to spot, and the panoramic views across the Exe Estuary from the higher points are well worth the effort. It's a brilliant year-round destination and somewhere we find ourselves returning to again and again."

"We've already mentioned Shilly Pool, and for good reason. It's probably our most closely guarded local secret and one of those places that feels genuinely special when you find it. We only share the coordinates with guests staying at Nymetwood, and we'd quite like to keep it that way.

"Black-a-Tor Copse has a temperate rainforest that is another hidden gem that many visitors to Dartmoor don't even realise exists. In fact, we're always slightly reluctant to mention it. This ancient temperate rainforest has all the magic and atmosphere of the better-known Wistman's Wood, but with far fewer people. Moss-covered trees, granite boulders and a wonderfully remote setting make it feel like stepping into another world.

"The Granite Way is one of our favourite ways to explore this part of Devon. Running along a former railway line between Okehampton and Lydford, this traffic-free cycling route passes through some truly beautiful countryside and offers incredible views across Dartmoor. Bikes can be hired in Okehampton, and the route is suitable for families as well as more experienced cyclists. We always recommend finishing with a drink at The Castle Inn in Lydford.

"Taw Valley Brewery is another place that flies under the radar. Hidden away in a medieval thatched barn in North Tawton, it's the sort of place most people would drive straight past without ever knowing it's there. The brewery produces excellent small-batch ales, and the summer taproom sessions are always worth seeking out. It's one of those places that feels like a real local discovery."

"If we had a long weekend in Devon, we'd probably strike a balance between adventure, good food and making the most of the incredible countryside right on our doorstep.

"On Saturday, we'd be tempted to do something a little more energetic. We both enjoy cycling, and Devon has some fantastic traffic-free trails to explore. One of our favourites is the Granite Way, a scenic route running from Okehampton to Lydford along the northern edge of Dartmoor. Crossing the impressive Meldon Viaduct and offering wonderful views across the moor, it's a great way to spend a morning.

"Once we'd reached Lydford, we'd swap two wheels for walking boots and head up onto Dartmoor for a dip in the River Lyd at Black Rock. There's nothing quite like cooling off in a Dartmoor river after a day outdoors.

"No trip to Lydford feels complete without a visit to Lydford Gorge. Managed by the National Trust, it's home to the deepest river gorge in the South West and one of Devon's most beautiful temperate rainforests. The walk takes you past the spectacular 30-metre Whitelady Waterfall and the dramatic Devil's Cauldron, where the river churns through a narrow rocky chasm below a viewing platform suspended above the water.

"After all that fresh air, we'd finish the day at The Castle Inn. It's exactly the sort of traditional country pub we love — welcoming, relaxed and serving great food. On sunny days, the beer garden is the perfect spot for a drink, while the cosy interior is ideal when the weather is a little less predictable.

"If we were lucky enough to have an extra day to spare, we'd slow the pace right down with a visit to nearby Alder Vineyard. A leisurely tour of the vines, a tasting of their award-winning wines and lunch overlooking the Devon countryside is a pretty wonderful way to round off a long weekend.

"For us, that's one of the best things about Devon. One day can be spent cycling, swimming and exploring wild places, while the next is all about slowing down, enjoying good food and taking in the views."

"If we had a long weekend in Devon, we'd keep things fairly simple and spend as much time outdoors as possible. We'd start by checking into a treehouse and taking a little time to switch off and enjoy the surroundings. From there, we'd head to Hartland Quay to take in the spectacular Atlantic views and walk a section of the coast path.

"No Devon weekend would be complete without a trip to the beach, so we'd make sure to spend a few hours by the sea, grabbing a proper Cornish pasty along the way. Then we'd round off the day with dinner at The Farmers Arms in Woolsery – one of our favourite places for great food, a relaxed atmosphere and a memorable evening with friends or family."

"If we had a long weekend in Devon, we'd start on Friday in Topsham with a relaxed stroll around the independent shops before stopping for drinks at The Lighter. From there, we'd take the ferry over to the floating River Exe Café for dinner, which always feels like a really special way to begin the weekend.

"On Saturday, we'd start at Exeter Quay with breakfast at Mango's Café, then have a browse around the quirky independent shops tucked into the arches. After that, we'd head to Saddles & Paddles to hire bikes, or a canoe if we fancied taking to the water, and follow the Exe Trail towards The Turf for a quick drink. From there, we'd continue on to Powderham Castle to see the deer and visit the home of the Earl of Devon, before finishing in Exmouth with supper at Rockfish, looking out over the sea.

"On Sunday, we'd slow things down with breakfast at Ullacombe Farm Shop before heading up to Dartmoor for the Haytor Rocks and quarry walk along the old granite tramway. The scenery is breathtaking, and we always love spotting the Dartmoor ponies along the way. Afterwards, we'd head back to the lovely village of Kenn for a famous roast dinner at The Ley Arms. If there was still room, we'd stop at the wonderful Orange Elephant on the way home for one of their homemade ice creams."

"You may notice a common theme running through many of our recommendations—we're big fans of cold-water swimming. Whether it's a dip in a Dartmoor river, a wild swimming pool tucked away on the moor or a refreshing swim in the sea, we love finding an excuse to get in the water.

"One of the joys of staying at Wolf Wood is knowing that, after a day of exploring, swimming and adventuring, you can head back to your treehouse and warm up in your private sauna or sink into the hot tub. There's something pretty special about ending a day outdoors with a hot soak amid the tree canopy.

"For us, it's one of the simple pleasures that makes a Devon escape so memorable."

"One thing we'd highly recommend is trying the Devon Community Sauna, either in Exmouth or Teignmouth. There's something incredibly restorative about combining a wood-fired sauna with a sea swim, whatever the time of year. We always leave feeling refreshed, re-energised and far more relaxed than when we arrived. It's a wonderful experience and a great way to support both your physical and mental wellbeing while enjoying Devon's beautiful coastline.

"Another uniquely Dartmoor experience is letterboxing. The tradition began on Dartmoor in 1854, when a local man placed a container at the remote Cranmere Pool for visitors to leave their calling cards. Today, it has evolved into a much-loved pastime that involves following clues and grid references to find hidden boxes scattered across the moor. Each contains a rubber stamp and visitor's book, allowing you to record your find before moving on to the next challenge. With more than 4,000 letterboxes hidden across Dartmoor, every visit offers the chance for a new adventure and a fresh discovery.

"For something a little more indulgent, we'd recommend a wine tasting at Kenton Park Estate. As soon as you arrive, it feels as though you've been transported to the south of France. The setting is beautiful, the staff are passionate and welcoming, and the whole experience feels relaxed and special. There are several tasting options to choose from, but whichever you pick, you're guaranteed excellent wine and a memorable day out. It's one of those places we always enjoy recommending to visitors."

"Mid Devon is, in our opinion, one of the most overlooked parts of the county. Most visitors head straight for the north or south coast, or make a beeline for Dartmoor's best-known beauty spots. What they often miss is everything in between.

"That's part of what we love about living here. We have Dartmoor right on our doorstep, Exeter just 30 minutes away, and both the north and south coasts within easy reach. One day we can be walking across open moorland, the next exploring a fishing village or spending the afternoon on a beach. It's the perfect base for experiencing all sides of Devon.

"We moved here from London five years ago and it's the longest either of us has ever lived anywhere. At the time, the kids needed a little convincing, but now they're the ones making us promise we'll never leave.

"For us, that says everything. Mid Devon may not always make the front cover of the guidebooks, but it's a wonderful place to live, explore and enjoy everything that makes Devon so special."