Best Things to Do in East Devon
Top Attractions in East Devon
From the spectacular vaulted ceilings of Exeter Cathedral to the scenic riverside traverse of the Seaton Tramway, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in the enchanting district of East Devon. If you’re planning a stay in one of Toad Hall’s East Devon holiday cottages, this list of local attractions is sure to float your boat.
Fossil Hunting: Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs
Step back in time when you walk these incredible undercliffs made up of prehistoric sediments and million-year-old mudstones and limestones. You don’t have to be a geologist to admire these rare and ancient rock beds and old salt lakes. This captivating stretch of coastline is considered one of the most precious landscapes in the world and is part of a 300+ hectare nature reserve managed by Natural England. A must for all budding fossil hunters.
Seaton Jurassic
Seaton Jurassic is a wonderful place to learn about the history of the Jurassic Coast, allowing you to walk 200 million years back through time and explore a prehistoric world where only the fittest and fiercest survived. Equipped with all this amazing knowledge your walks along the Jurassic Coast and fossil finding expeditions will be even more exciting!
Cycle the Exe Estuary Trail
The Exe Estuary Trail is a 26-mile cycle route which follows the estuary from Dawlish to Exmouth, passing Powderham Castle and pretty villages like Topsham. Mostly flat and well surfaced the whole way, it’s great for all ages and abilities, and there are several spots to stop for refreshments along the way.
Visit ‘Diagon Alley’
Tucked away in the centre of Exeter, Gandy Street is a beautiful cobbled lane filled with little shops, cafés and bars. Narrow, historic and almost secretive, it’s easy to see why this picturesque lane was allegedly the inspiration of JK Rowling’s magical Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.
Feast at River Cottage
Celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage brand champions a sustainable farm to food ethos. Book a table at the relaxed and informal River Cottage Canteen and Deli in Axminster to feast on fresh, locally grown, seasonal and organic produce, or visit the River Cottage HQ, a beautiful farm set on the Devon Dorset border, for its legendary cookery school and dining events.
Spot Beavers in the River Otter
It is estimated that there are around 15 different family groups of wild beavers living on the River Otter. It’s not too tricky to see these charismatic creatures if you spend enough time by the river, many of who are resident in the lower reaches of the Otter, an area well covered by public footpaths. Head to Otterton village in early evening during the summer months and take a seat on the river banks for one of the best chances to spot these wonderful wild beavers.
Branscombe
Considered one of the most beautiful villages on the south coast, Branscombe is well worth a visit. You’ll find chocolate box cottages, thatched roofs and pastel blooms in cottage gardens. Visit the National Trust’s working thatched forge , Manor Mill and Old Bakery tea rooms before meandering down the valley towards the sea, where there’s a long shingle beach and a beach cafe where you can pick up an ice cream to enjoy while soaking up the beautiful view.
Beer Quarry Caves
Beer Quarry Caves were formed during two thousand years of limestone quarrying, and material from the quarry was used by master stonemasons in the building of some of England’s most venerated cathedrals. A mile outside of the pretty coastal village of Beer, the caves are considered one of the most important industrial sites in the British Isles.
Budleigh Salterton Beach
Budleigh Salterton Beach is a mile-and-a-half sweep of pebbly shore that falls within a World Heritage site and marks the start of the Devon section of the Jurassic Coast. It’s loved for its tranquil, sparkling waters, perfect for bathing. Close by is the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, 33 hectares of saltmarsh habitat and Triassic sandstone rock formations where more the 120 species of birds have been spotted, including the whimbrel and black-tailed godwit.
Powderham Castle
Set within an ancient deer park overlooking the Exe estuary, Powderham Castle is one of Devon’s oldest family homes. Built in 1391, the castle is the residence of the 19th Earl & Countess of Devon. Marvel at the exquisite architecture and explore the secret doors and passages before roving the vast acreages to discover the walled, rose and woodland gardens.
Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral is a stunning feat of ecclesiastical architecture, and its uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling is the longest of its kind in the world. The cathedral is one of the city’s top attractions. You can learn all about its fascinating history and secret past on the popular guided tours, including the ‘roof tour’ which takes in the north and south towers and Ringing Chamber, plus a chance to enjoy magnificent views across the rooftops of Devon’s capitol.
Killerton House & Gardens
Killerton House is an 18th century manor surrounded by more the 6,000 acres of woods and parkland. The gardens are lovingly maintained all-year-round and visitors can roam the many leafy trails, riverside tracks and winding orchard paths, enjoying views that stretch as far as Dartmoor.
Seaton Tramway
Explore the beautiful Axe Valley aboard the Seaton Tramway as it meanders along a three-mile track following the banks of the River Axe estuary. The tram begins its journey from the seaside town of Seaton – gateway to the Jurassic Coast – eventually arriving at Colyton “Devon’s Most Rebellious Town”, a reputation earned during the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685. The route also traverses two nature reserves, both havens for wading birds.
The Donkey Sanctuary
Founded in the 1960s by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen MBE, The Donkey Sanctuary has since cared for more than 20,000 donkeys. Set on the majestic Jurassic Coast and surrounded by East Devonshire countryside, this working farm includes visitor and training centres, numerous tracks and trails to explore, an outdoor play area and maze, plus hundreds of donkeys, mules and hinnies all keen to say hello. There’s no admission fee, just brings your smiles and enjoy the company of these gentle creatures. An eeyore-some day out…
Crealy Theme Park & Resort
If you’re in the mood for some family fun, the award-winning Crealy Theme Park could be just the ticket. Packed with rides and attractions, animal displays and live shows, you’ll be able to enjoy an action-packed visit whatever the weather. It’s the ideal setting for the kids to run wild.
Exmouth Beach
The soft, golden sands of Exmouth Beach provide a wonderful seaside escape. This family-friendly bay is also the ideal setting for water sports enthusiasts with standup paddle boarding (SUP), kite surfing and windsurfing all very much on the radar. The beach lies along a magnificent sweep of the South West Coast Path, backed by a two-mile-long promenade where you’ll find all the traditional seaside favourites such as swing boats, crazy golf, ice creams and donkey rides.
Aylesbeare Common Nature Reserve
Wildlife enthusiasts will relish an opportunity to walk the heaths, woods and wetlands of Aylesbeare Common. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the nature reserve is home to Dartford warblers, stonechats and nightjars (the later of which can be seen hunting moths at ‘dimpsey’; an old Devon word meaning, dusk). This wonderful reserve is preserved and maintained by The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB).
Orcombe Point
Orcombe Point marks the westernmost tip of the Jurassic Coast, a magnificent 96-mile coastal corridor famous for its prehistoric rock formations. It’s also the site of The Geoneedle, an impressive landmark constructed from the various rock types embedded along the peninsula. It was designed by Michael Fairfax and unveiled by HRH the Prince of Wales in 2002 to commemorate the opening of England’s only natural World Heritage Site.
Bicton Park & Botanical Gardens
Spread across 64 acres, Bicton Park and Botanical Gardens are home to rare and exotic plant species from all over the world. As well as the magnificent flora houses, Italian Garden and arboretum, the park also has children’s play areas, a countryside museum, crazy golf, pedal tractors and an astro turf football pitch.
Take your pick from our exclusive selection of East Devon holiday cottages, from cosy coastal boltholes to quiet countryside retreats – we’ve got the lot.