Money counts, we understand, but being conscious of money doesn’t mean that you cannot have fun! A day out is about creating memories, not burning a whole in your pocket. Luckily Devon has some absolutely wonderful places to explore even on the tightest of budgets. We have listed some of our favourite free days out across Devon below – indoors, or outdoors, a whole days entertainment, or just a few hours – we hope to inspire some fantastic days that everyone can enjoy.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) – EX4 3RX
This beautiful early 19th-century museum and art gallery in Exeter is the largest in the city. It holds significant and diverse collections in areas such as zoology, anthropology, fine art, local and overseas archaeology, and geology. Entry is free throughout the year and there is so much to see.
The Granite Way – EX20 4HN
This 11 mile Dartmoor cycle track is mostly traffic free and has the most spectacular views of Dartmoor and it’s surrounding rural areas. With various cycle hire points and refreshments available en route there are certainly places where money could be spent but equally if you bring along your own bike and picnic this track makes for the most gorgeous day out on your bike whatever your cycling ability.
Haldon Forest Park – EX6 7XR
Whether you want a quiet gentle stroll or an exhilarating mountain biking experience, there’s something for you at Haldon Forest Park.
Haldon Forest offers a range of walking and cycling trails to suit all abilities, as well as a pump loop, cycle skills area, orienteering courses and so much more just waiting to be discovered.
It is worth noting that whilst entry is free, parking does need to be paid for at Haldon, however if you plan to return a few times in the year, Haldon Forest Park members park for free so a membership may be something worth looking into.
Burgh Island – TQ7 4BG
Burgh Island is a tidal island on the coast of South Devon, near the small seaside village of Bigbury-on-Sea. The island is accessible at low tide by a strip of sand which at high tide is completely covered, leaving a ride on the unique sea tractor as the only means of access. With the most stunning views, plenty of beautiful remains and local wildlife to see, plus a fantastic collection of local foodie spots, it is easy to spend a full day here.
East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – EX10 8NG
The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers over 100 square miles of the East Devon countryside, with this countryside including eighteen miles of Heritage coastline. These coastlines are England’s first natural World Heritage Site and have an outstanding combination of globally significant geological and geomorphological features, making them a must when visiting this area of Devon.
Verity Statue – EX34 9EQ
Verity is a stainless steel and bronze statue created by Damien Hirst that was created in 2012. The 20.25-metre tall sculpture stands on the pier at the entrance to the harbour in Ilfracombe, looking out over the Bristol Channel towards South Wales. Whilst Verity’s design has been a real talking point locally, with people torn both ways on whether or not they like the statue, there is no doubt that she is a real asset to the town with people travelling for miles to see the controversial design in the picturesque seaside town.
Tarka Trail – EX33 2FB
Inspired by the route travelled by Tarka the Otter, this 180 mile, figure eight route traverses unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches. The southern loop incorporates the longest, continuous off-road cycle path in the UK. Walking or cycling, you can experience the best this beautiful area has to offer.
The Jolly Roger – TQ13 9FF
This thriving family business is the largest dedicated supplier of quality resin and fibre-glass 3D models, and their huge two storey showroom is open to the public to look around. Hot drinks, snacks and ice creams are available from Josie’s Ice Cream Parlour on site and we highly recommend taking along a few pennies to enjoy these delicious treats.
Seaton Wetlands – EX12 2SP
Seaton Wetlands is 4 kilometers of level trails and boardwalks that are all suitable for bikes, wheelchairs and also pushchairs. Enjoy beautiful marshland and reed beds alongside the River Axe and all the wildlife that is to be found in this natural habitat.
The site has a car park, toilets, picnic area, 5 bird hides and 3 pond dipping platforms with plenty to see and get involved in for all ages.