This week marks the end of our ‘Things to do in Devon’ series and we are finishing things off with the charming location of West Devon. Renowned for its rugged beauty of Dartmoor, this area of Devon is perfect for outdoor adventurists and boutique lovers.
Something for the children
Planning a good family holiday includes days out that you know the children will love. West Devon has lots on offer to keep the little ones entertained.
Roadford Lake Watersports Centre, located in Lifton, is a wonderful, activity-filled day out. There is a whole range of activities to take part which includes cycling and walking around the lake, jumping aboard kayaks, paddle boarding or sailing with trained staff helping you to learn new skills. Dogs are welcome and there is scrumptious food to refuel at in their onsite cafe.
Tamar Trails, located in Tavistock is another great choice for a family day out in West Devon. Filled with a range of activities there is bound to be something for everyone. One of their main attractions is that of Tree Surfers, where you are securely strapped in and sent across a high ropes adventure course. You will tackle everything from swings, to zip lines and bridges. There is both an adult and child course which means the whole family can take part in the fun. As well as tree surfing the attraction also hosts an array of other activities including canoeing, archery, walking and cycling.
If you are looking for something to do when the weather is a little bit wet then why not take a trip to the cinema? Okehampton has a cinema in the centre of town called The New Carlton Cinema where you can catch the latest films. Then you can pop out for a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Something for the Shoppers
For those of you who enjoy wandering around the shops, browsing the shelves and tasting yummy food, then West Devon has plenty on offer. Tavistock is a fantastic town filled with lots of boutiques, jewellery, gift and homeware shops. It has also been voted the best farmer’s market in the South West, so a brilliant stop for food lovers.
Okehampton is another great town to make a stop for the shops. Containing many high street brands along with small colourful shops filled with items you will just have to take home. The town also has a traditional arcade which is filled with sweet boutiques that may take your fancy. In addition to the shops, Okehampton has the remains of Devon’s largest castle. Run by the Heritage Trust, this interesting site is a great place to delve into the history of Okehampton and Dartmoor.
Finally, Chagford is a charming town filled with traditional boutiques and antiques. It also has an art gallery for those who adore the creative world. It also has a delicatessen and a wine shop for those who enjoy tasting new food.
Outdoor lovers
West Devon is a superb location for those who cherish the great outdoors. Home to the famous Dartmoor, a rugged beauty of moorland, heather and tors. For those who love to explore then you are in luck with what we have to offer.
First up, there is the Granite Way, an 11-mile cycle and walkway that follows the old Southern Region railway. This wonderful route offers spectacular views of Dartmoor including the impressive silhouettes of the Sourton Tors. You can access the route from Okehampton old Railway Station where a traditional, cosy cafe can be enjoyed.
Another great area for exploring is Princetown, well known for the infamous prison (Dartmoor Prison). The area provides you with an abundance of walks to choose from. In addition to walking, visitors can explore the town which includes Dartmoor’s National Park Visitor Centre. A brilliant place to learn all about Dartmoor through exciting displays and interesting information. You can also find lovely gifts and souvenirs to take home. If that was not enough you can even visit Princetown’s famous prison for yourself. Dartmoor Prison has a museum that showcases what the prison was like and provides you stories of those who managed to escape years ago!
Lydford Gorge is a beautiful place to enjoy a walk in West Devon. Drenched in wonderful woodland, the walk extends around a circular route before showcasing its magnificent waterfall. For those of you who feel more adventurous, you can delve further into the Devil’s cauldron where you come face to face with the waterfall and feel its power. After exploring you can go back to the National Trust tearoom for a bite to eat.
Finally, if you enjoy horse riding and would like to explore Dartmoor from the saddle, then Chowell Riding School should be on your list to visit. You can get straight onto Dartmoor from the stables, with no need to ride onto roads. The stables are a family run business who take riders of all abilities and provides lessons for complete beginners. Whether you are an expert rider who would like to explore Dartmoor or a complete beginner who fancies trying something new, Chowell Riding School will be able to accommodate you.
If you have been enticed to a trip down to West Devon, here at Devon Farms we have lots of accommodation available. Take a look and see if any of our self-catering or bed and breakfast accommodation might just be what you have been searching for.