The early signs of spring are here in Devon, with Snowdrops and Daffodils filling our banks, lambs being born and the sound of birds chirping loudly. It is such a wonderful time of year in Devon as the first signs of life appear and the promise of a warm summer begins. These are just some of the reasons why a spring visit to Devon should be on the cards. Read this blog for even more reasons why Devon should be your next short break away or Easter holiday with the family.
The Countryside
Devon is blessed with some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, from woodlands to rolling hills and seascapes. There is something for everyone and lots to explore. Springtime is particularly beautiful in Devon with the early signs of life peeping through. Snowdrops are the first signs of colour in the garden with their crisp white petals peeping through the undergrowth. Next up are the hellebores with their variety of colour which makes us think of summertime closely followed by the bright yellow and orange colours of the daffodils. The wonderful woodlands that we have in Devon begin to fill with bluebells until the woodland floor is a blanket of purple and green. As for the seaside, that looks beautiful all year round. As the sun starts to break with a little more warmth, there is nothing more perfect than wrapping up and heading to the seaside. Walk your dog, fly a kite or enjoy a coffee while admiring the amazing coastal view.
The food
Devon in spring is a place filled with food, the thought of Easter lunch and of course Easter egg hunts are on the mind. There are lots of local attractions that run Easter egg hunts that are great fun for your little ones. Just a few these places include The Milky Way, Cockington Court, Babbacombe Model Village, The Big Sheep and Quince Honey Farm. Then for the adults, there are plenty of places to enjoy a Devonshire cream tea which is just right for an Easter celebration. If you a looking for the Easter lunch of your dreams then there are lots of wonderful roasts to be enjoyed in Devon. Choose to have your easter lunch at one of the many fantastic pubs dotted around or some of our B&Bs offer evening meals where you can enjoy a home-cooked meal. Another great option for those staying in Self-Catering cottages is to head to one of our many local farm shops and purchase all local goods for a big home-cooked Easter lunch.
Accommodation
We wanted to mention our accommodation because many of our accommodation providers are situated on farms which are the most wonderful places in springtime. Not only do many of the accommodation sites have beautiful gardens filled with spring flowers but the farms are filled with new life, baby animals! Lambs are one of the most well-known signs of Easter and our accommodation sites are filled with them, along with the births of piglets, foals cows and more. When you stay on these farms you and your family get the opportunity to meet the animals, feed them and explore the farm with guided tours.
National Trust
Another brilliant part of spring in Devon is that the National Trust sites open their doors from the 29tth of February. After a winter of hibernation, the gift shops are fully stocked, the cafes are filled with scrumptious food and the house and gardens are prepared for visitors. Some of these wonderful National Trust sites include Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, an Art Deco former home of Rupert and Dorothy D’Oyly Carte. This stunning home was built in 1926 and boasts minimalist interiors, stunning valley views and fun interactive elements. There are also beautiful gardens to explore with seasonal walks organised by the staff.
Greenway, near Brixham, is another beautiful manor house. Home to Devon’s most famous daughter, Dame Agatha Christie. Learn all about Agatha’s life, her home and her beautiful gardens.
Overbecks near Salcombe is another wonderful National Trust site, home to renowned gardens of rare plant species from tropics around the world. The home and gardens sit above South Sands near Salcombe and is a treasured site with lots of interesting art and quirky artefacts.
If you fancy a bit of a walk then head to North Devon’s Watersmeet, the place where the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water meet. The rich woodlands of the Lyn Valley contrast against the South West Coast path that runs along the dramatic Glenthorn cliffs. The most spectacular of walks that combines everything that makes Devon so wonderful, rolling hills, dramatic coastlines and wonderful woodlands. There is also an idyllic old house that now runs as a tearoom where you can rest halfway around for refreshments.
Further Information
We hope you have enjoyed our blog about Springtime in Devon and if you want to know more about Devon Farms and what we have on offer be sure to take a look at our website.