Things to do North Devon

This region of Devon is packed with cultural heritage, literary and artistic links and no two towns or villages are the same, but they are all have one thing in common; astonishing scenery and very friendly local communities. The history and heritage are very broad from museums and galleries to guided tours and stories passed down through the generations. North Devon is home to a number of museums and galleries offering an insight into the regions renowned maritime history. However you wish to explore there is plenty to amaze you and the experiences and activities on offer in this part of the UK are exclusive so you won’t be short of things to do in Devon. From mountain biking, walking or horse riding across Exmoor to swimming off the exceptional coastline. Devon is also extremely dog friendly so you don’t need to leave your pet at home, with miles of footpaths and dog-friendly Devon attractions, all family members are welcome!

North Devon is also home to some of the greatest UK’s top visitor attractions and activities in the region and offers a f un packed day out for everyone! Children and adults alike will love the variety of attractions on offer in this part of Devon. Whether it be having fun at exciting family attractions, discovering some fascinating local history, exploring charming locations or emerging in wildlife havens. There is something to suit all tastes, across the length and breadth of Devon. Should it be you are on holiday or just enjoying days out, there is sure to be a top attraction to keep everyone occupied whatever the weather; rain or shine.

Head for Clovelly Village in North Devon and step back in time for a quintessentially Devon day out!
The world-famous fishing village once owned by the Queen of England, identified by its cobbled and traffic-free street, donkeys, sledges and historic harbour. Picture postcard views and a sense of peace and tranquility. Built into a split in a 400 foot high cliff with whitewashed cottages decorated with flowers and tiny working port. Renowned for its donkeys which traditionally carried goods up the hills and sledges to bring things down. There are links with Charles Kingsley, William Turner, Charles Dickens and the Spanish Armada. With opportunity to eat and stay at the Red Lion.

If you looking for a full family day out in Devon then head to the award winning The Milky Way Adventure Park  a top Devon all weather attraction!

This North Devon space themed theme park is an award winning family day out. Indoor and outdoor activities, the biggest all weather family day out in North Devon. Ride the Cosmic Typhoon rollercoaster or the destroyer dodgems, enjoy the selection of live shows or test your archery skills. They have a private collection exhibition on show of sci-fi memorabilia from television and film. Darth Vader, Daleks and R2D2 this collection is a must see for any fan!

Head for a Devon day out at The Big Sheep Adventure Park  where big fun and big smiles are guaranteed. The Big Sheep experience holds a magical mix of farmyard fun and theme park excitement and like the rest of Devon’s Top Attractions is one of the best days out in Devon.

The park offers world Famous Fun and has been doing this for over 30 years. The Big Sheep near Bideford was once a working farm and in 1988 the Turner family decided to diversify and open its doors to welcome visitors to see the animals, experience feeding times and see the day to day workings of a busy farm. Come rain or shine, action packed selection of rides, shows, animal shows and indoor play to keep everyone in the family entertained. Children can enjoy the magic of a real farm; newborn lambs most of the year and other baby farm animals to feed and cuddle at Pet’s Corner. Don’t forget the rollercoaster with swoops, turns and drops, full of family thrills to remember. Also, home to the largest rollercoaster in Devon! Not forgetting the latest addition – an on-site gin distillery!

Why not buzz over to Quince Honey Farm  for lots of bee themed Devon activities and indulge in a honey cream tea! It takes the Devon cream tea to a whole new level!

Quince Honey Farm relocated in 2019 and is now a brand new bigger all weather attraction not to be missed! Quince Honey Farm in South Molton is a family run business which was first established in 1949. Now in its third generation and with over 1500 hives, they are always refining new beekeeping techniques and growing in knowledge. Come and visit Devon’s working honey farm, set in over 40 acres, with beautifully landscaped Nectar gardens that are planted with millions of bee friendly plants. Offering a whole day out, full of bee related activities for all the family. During your visit you can head to the Honey Factory for a guided tour, enjoy a honey tasting session and roll your own beeswax candle. The Bee Shed hosts the popular Beekeeping Demos. Let the young and the young at heart buzz around The Play Hive Adventure Park; indoor soft play, outdoor play area and lake. Critter encounter shows take place here too where you can hold a creepy crawly if you’re brave enough, plus a café serving light bites and refreshments.

If you are looking for things to do near Ilfracome, then head Watermouth Castle and Family Theme Park it’s a day out like no other!

Situated near Ilfracombe this Victorian Castle full of eclectic treasures, nostalgic displays and curios, a theme park including rides and play areas and beautifully landscaped gardens. The location overlooks the stunning Watermouth Cove which can be enjoyed from parts of the grounds. Always something to capture the imagination which is a must see for yourself. Labyrinths and see magical fairytales come to life. Watch the patriotic water show extravaganza and enjoy the beautiful performance of lights, music and fountains in the famous underground water show. Merry Go Land, Gnome Land or Adventure Land take your pick. Lastly but not least enjoy the delight of a Watermouth Fayre ice-cream, homemade onsite from a secret family recipe…

Exmoor Zoo   is one of Devon’s best zoos. It is a unique rural zoo set in a stunning North Devon valley and offers a great Devon day out with the kids.

Enjoy a day out in North Devon experiencing wildlife from around the world by visiting Exmoor Zoo! From the creepy crawlies of the Amazon to the wobbly wallaby joeys of Australia there are plenty of hands on activities with our animals for you to take part in.

Home of the Exmoor Beast! Exmoor Zoo has the only pair of black leopards on exhibit in the country. Something different to experience every half hour with many animals to meet. This Zoo is different to other zoos and is a more personal, friendly and contact orientated which has grown into a North Devon valley. Take your pick of a mixture of talks, handling and feeding sessions provided all year round. You could make a friend with an Alpaca by stroking their soft warm fleece or conquer your fears by handling a spider and snake! Lots to explore and lots to learn.

There are plenty of things to do in North Devon and one top thing is a visit to Dartington Crystal 

As the only remaining glass factory in the country, Dartington Crystal at Torrington is the true home of British glass making. Go on the factory tour and you will be able to watch skilled glass makers in action, creating beautiful pieces of art from molten crystal. The self-guided factory tour is an insight into each part of the process. Lots to see and do for all ages, with live demonstrations, creative activities and fascinating displays with the opportunity to create your own masterpiece! Enjoy a great shopping experience too. As well as Dartington products there is on offer a host of quality brands for fashion, homewares, accessories and gifts. Don’t forget to relax in the licensed café-restaurant with a selection of freshly prepared food and drinks.

Take a Devon boat trip to Lundy Island and immerse yourself in nature. Go there for a top Devon day out or stay longer at some of the accommodation they offer.

Lack of roads, cars and pollution make it a fantastic place to escape to and enjoy the natural pleasures of being outside. The island’s name is derived from one of its once abundant species of bird; the puffin. Lundy Island can be reached by the MS Oldenbury ferry; Lundy’s own ferry and supply ship which leaves from both Ilfracombe and Bideford. In fine weather there is plenty of space on deck, if lucky visitors may be treated to the company of a pod of dolphins who follow the ships path. During the winter season you can even travel via helicopter from Hartland Point in seven minutes. Lundy lies off the coast of North Devon, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Bristol Channel with nothing between it and America, three miles long and half a mile wide. A top full day out for all the family!