South Devon’s Simple Pleasures

A gentle stroll along the harbourside, a golden sunset admired from the grassy headland, a picnic spot in a sleepy meadow… it’s so often the simple pleasures that we cherish the most.

Life in sunny South Devon is full of these precious opportunities, time to while away the hours and forget all your troubles and cares. That’s why so many of our guests continue to choose this beautiful setting for their family holidays, last minute getaways, long weekends and outdoor adventures.

Here are a few of our favourite things to do while out and about in South Devon…

South Devon Walks

South Devon is blessed with some of the most scenic tracks and trails in the UK. From its weaving coastal paths and river wends, to its green lanes, holloways and woodland walks, it is full of surprises. The beauty of booking a self-catering holiday in South Devon is that you can come and go as you please, free to explore the rolling green pastures and timeless villages. Whether you fancy a gentle stroll along the banks of the estuary, or a hearty hike across the tors of Dartmoor, South Devon provides the ideal setting for walkers and ramblers to exercise their right to roam. Just follow the waymarks and away you go.

Fish ‘n’ Chips by the Waterside

Whenever we ask our guests about the things they miss the most from their previous holidays in South Devon, a bag of fish ‘n’ chips and a bench with a seaside view is always near the top of their list. This traditional seaside favourite always conjures up bucketfuls of nostalgia; the splash of vinegar, the taste of golden, crispy batter, that cheeky seagull watching from the harbour wall…it’s a summer scene we all know and love. This staple dish can be found on menu boards all across South Devon, our many cafés and takeaways always well stocked for the holiday season and ready to satisfy this welcome craving. With so many fresh fish feasts on offer, it’s hard to pick our favourite, but the Start Bay Inn at Torcross is something of a South Devon institution. We like ours in a takeaway box sat on Slapton Sand’s shingle shoreline.

Wild Swimming

From its wending rivers and calm creeks to its sparkling bays and turquoise coves, it’s easy to see why so many wild swimmers flock to the South Devon waterways. The health benefits of wild swimming have been widely documented, some GPs even prescribing it to patients suffering from low mood and depression. The invigorating and restorative powers of wild water are a powerful lure for all those wanting to reconnect with nature and experience a natural high. All you need is a towel and swimming costume. Remember to always respect the water, stay safe, and follow the dos and don’ts. If you don’t fancy a swim, have a refreshing paddle instead. Like to know more? …Here’s one of Mr Toad’s interviews with South Devon wild swimming enthusiasts and guide book authors, Matt Newbury and Sophie Pierce.

Picnics

You’ve picked up some delicious treats and delectable morsels from the local delis and farmers’ market, found a peaceful setting from where you can watch the world go by: the banks of a tranquil creek, a sandy cove with far-reaching views or a wildflower meadow under the shade of a mighty oak – there’s nothing more romantic than a leisurely picnic in the glorious South Devon countryside. It’s time to lie back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature accompanied by a glass of your favourite tipple and a hamper packed with local goodies.

Crabbing

This simplest of simple pleasures was never in any doubt of making it onto our list. The noble art of crabbing has kept families entertained for generations, the pontoons, slipways and harboursides of South Devon perfect for all those keen to nab a crustacean. This ‘shoresome’ (sorry!) activity only requires some basic kit and a little bit of know how. Mr Toad has put together a handy crab catching guide for anyone looking for some hints and tips, plus some of South Devon’s best crabbing locations.

Rockpool Adventures

Grab your nets and buckets and explore some of the sunken habitats found along the rocky shores of the fascinating South Devon coast. The ebbing tide reveals these watery worlds pooled amongst the rocks and teeming with marine life; from limpets and mussels, to snails, sponges, and sea urchins… you might even encounter darting fish, wriggly eels and side-winding crabs. There’s no better way to learn all about the wonders of the coast than by experiencing it for real – childhood memories that will last a lifetime.

Paddling the Waterways

The rivers, creeks and estuaries of South Devon provide wonderful opportunities for all those who enjoy a paddling adventure. Whether you find yourselves seated in an open top canoe or kayak, or balancing gracefully on a stand-up paddle board (SUP), there’s no better way to chart and explore the enchanting coastline than by taking to the water. South Devon has a long list of water sports instructors ready to lead you round the many secret creeks, craggy coves and hidden inlets while offering expert guidance and tuition. Here are five of our favourite SUP spots in South Devon to get you started.

Devon Cream Teas

There’s nothing quite like a traditional cream tea in a pretty cottage garden. It’s the perfect reward after your day’s adventures; a dollop of Devonshire clotted cream, a pot of strawberry jam and a round of farmhouse scones, even better if they’re still warm from the oven. We know what a simple yet heavenly pleasure this is for you all, which is why there was no hesitation in adding this teatime favourite to our list.

Devonshire Ice Cream

The lush green fields of South Devon provide the ideal pastures for dairy cows to graze the hillsides and meadows. Farmers pride themselves on producing the richest and creamiest diary, so it makes perfect sense that South Devon whips up so much award-winning ice cream. Maybe it’s the classic double scoop of cream vanilla with twin flakes that satisfies your sweet tooth, or perhaps you prefer something more adventurous atop your cone such as salted caramel or some rich rum ‘n’ raisin. Whatever your fancy, South Devon’s ice cream parlours are always a welcome sight on a basking hot day. Try local favourites Salcombe Dairy, Surfing Cow Ice Cream or Langage Farm.

Brilliant Sunsets

You’ve had a day crammed full of discovery and adventure, whiled away the hours and indulged in some fabulous local food. What better way to sign off the day than by watching a brilliant sunset as it melts into an endless horizon. South Devon is famous for its wonderful sunsets, admired from its lofty moorland tors, clifftop paths and secluded coves. All you have to do is sit back and marvel at the dimpsey.

Pub Gardens & Waterside Inns

These are challenging and uncertain times for our beloved South Devon pubs, along with all of the UK’s hospitality industry, but we couldn’t possibly put a list of simple pleasures together without giving them a mention. Sipping a pint of Devonshire cider on a hot summer’s day is, for many, the perfect way to unwind. Our wonderful pubs are always a welcome sight for weary wayfarers, and we look forward to seeing their doors opening once again in the not too distant future.