Secret Devon: Our Picks For Your Perfect Summer
Part two
In the second part of our Insider’s Guide to Devon, we’re sharing our favourite independent shops and top picks for family-friendly activities.
Whether you're on holiday in our beautiful county or just passing through, uncover more of our Secret Devon.
Shopping
Tavistock Pannier Market
One of the few surviving pannier markets in Devon, Tavistock Pannier Market has a wide variety of daily stalls from antiques, booksellers, clothes, food and more.
Dart’s Farm, Topsham
Prepare to spend a serious amount of time browsing the food hall and gifts available at Dart’s Farm. With events, a spa, bars and restaurants, this is definitely a shop that you can lose hours in.
Craftmongers, Ashburton
“The Craftmongers is a treasure trove of sustainable homeware, gifts and textiles from local and independent makers. There is always something beautiful to discover.” Bryonie, Marketing
Strawberry Fields, Lifton
This thriving farm shop on the border with Cornwall has fruit, veg, handmade pasties, breads and desserts and pick your own and seasonal events all year round. It's the perfect place to stock up your holiday fridge.
Busby & Fox, Totnes
An independent women’s clothing brand with an emphasis on effortless styles in natural fabrics.
Topsham Quay Antiques Centre
Overlooking the Topsham estuary with three floors of antiques, curios and vintage treasures to discover, you are sure to find something unique for your home.
Bon Bons Sweets, South Molton
Take a step into the past with this old fashioned sweet shop and ice cream parlour to delight the whole family.
Activities
There’s lots to explore in Devon, so book an active day out with these ideas.
Paddleboarding at Royal William Yard
Paddle in Plymouth Sound or explore the coast with a paddleboard rental from South West SUP in Firestone Arches at Royal William Yard. Hire a bespoke session or join a small group.
e-Xplore Devon
Meander through the South Devon countryside on an e-bike, with e-Xplore Devon. Book a half or full day and see the sights in a slower fashion.
Buckfast Butterfly Farm
This is definitely a sensitive sensory visit – whether you want to take the family day out or just enjoy some peace and quiet from the noise of the outside world – the butterfly house – is the perfect place to go. Aishia, Production
The Box, Plymouth
Plymouth’s exciting museum and gallery space is far from stuffy and boring. Explore their programme of summer holiday activities and exhibitions.
Hartland Quay, North Devon
“This dramatic stretch of North Devon coastline has a nice pub and lovely walks” Jordan, Operations
Wildwood Devon
With 45 acres of beautiful gardens and woodland to explore with nature trails and a maze, kids will burn off plenty of energy.
Tamar Trails
Not for the faint-hearted, the Tamar Trails offers a high ropes adventure course set in the scenic woodlands of the Tamar Valley. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can explore the trails by walking or cycling, or even book an archery session.
Tarka Trail
Taking in 180 miles of beautiful North Devon, the Tarka Trail is great for hiking and cycling and takes in both of Devon's beautiful moorlands: Dartmoor and Exmoor.
Postbridge Visitor Centre
Situated in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, the Postbridge Visitor Centre is a great spot to explore nearby Bellever Woods and the White Horse Hill archaeological site. Look out for the native Dartmoor ponies.
Dartmoor’s Daughter
Book a guided walk or join a group walk or experience with Dartmoor guide, Emma. Choose a general ramble, a foraging walk or learn about the myths and legends of this ancient land.
