Hello to all our lovely readers and welcome back to our blog! All of us here at Devon Farm Holidays hope you are all well. It has been fantastic to be back open and doing what we love, sharing our slice of Devon with you all. This week we want to share with you some of the open attractions in West Devon.
Activities for the Children
Keeping the little ones entertained can sometimes be a bit of a task but with two fantastic places we have lined up it might make it that little bit easier.
Tamar Valley Donkey Park
For little ones who love to meet animals then the Tamar Valley Donkey Park is the perfect choice. Not only is it set in some stunning countryside they have lots of animals for your children to meet, groom and feed. There are of course lots of donkeys to meet as well as ponies, rabbits, guinea pigs, sheep, pigs and goats. They are now open daily until the 6th of September, after which they have varied opening times so please check their website. You must pre-book online before attending, for more information click here.
Miniature Pony Centre
Another fantastic attraction in West Devon that the children are bound to love is the Miniature Pony Centre. Situated in the magical location of Dartmoor it is a wonderful location for a family day out. The miniature ponies are of course a firm favourite on site, but they also have miniature donkeys, heavy horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, insects, birds, pigs and goats! There is lots to explore at the farm with daily events and entertainment and their cafe that serves light lunches, treats and of course the famous Devon cream tea. Booking online prior to attending is required which you can do so by clicking here.
The Gardens
The Garden House
For those looking to explore a beautiful garden in the depths of Dartmoor then you will love The Garden House. Each garden provides a different feel and look with an abundance of planting. Children love the garden trial and exploring the secret pathways. You can also treat yourself to a scrumptious homemade lunch or cream team or purchase a plant for your own garden. They are only open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 11-3pm and you do not need to book prior to attending. However, for more information please click here.
Stone Lane Garden
A spectacular 5 acre woodland and water garden that is situated on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. The gardens are famous for their national collections of Birch and Alder trees. The beautiful gardens include a variety of planting and other unusual and beautiful trees. Stone Lane Garden also has a sculpture exhibition between May and October every year which showcases West Country artists. No prior booking is required but you can still learn more about the gardens by clicking here.
For the whole Family
Okehampton Castle
For those of you who might have English Heritage cards then Okehampton Castle must be on your lists of places to visit in West Devon. It is the remains of the largest castle in Devon and it is situated in a beautiful countryside setting on a wooden spur above the gushing River Okement. You can enjoy an audio tour which brings the castle to life and provides you with a rich history of the castle. There is also the perfect riverside picnic area and stunning woodland walks nearby. It is required that you book online before visiting which you can do so here.
Meldon Viaduct
For those wanting to get some exercise in then walking or cycling to the Meldon Viaduct is a fantastic family activity. The viaduct was built in 1874 and spans 165 meters over the remains of mineral mines. The views from the viaduct span across the Meldon Dam and reservoir to the South West. The route is pretty flat and accessible for most abilities. No prior booking is required but for those of you who did not bring the bikes, you can hire bikes from the Granite Way Cycles by clicking here.
Lydford Gorge
One family attraction not to be missed is the National Trust site of Lydford Gorge. It is the deepest river gorge in the South West with a 30m high waterfall! Popular with families due to its a variety of walks to suit all abilities and time scales, however sturdy footwear is recommended for all routes. Currently, the full Lydford Gorge trail and the Devil’s Cauldron trail is closed however the Waterfall trail is still open for visitors who pre-book which you can do so online by clicking here.
Further Information
We hope you have enjoyed today’s blog post and if you are now thinking that a trip to Devon is on the cards then be sure to take a look at our stunning accommodation and book yourself a lovely family holiday. Click here for our accommodation.