Thinking of heading to Devon, but not quite sure where you want to stay? From gorgeous beaches and postcard-worthy harbour towns to busy historic cities and countryside escapes, Devon truly has it all, so it’s pretty easy to see why you might be struggling to decide where to stay. To help you pick the perfect place to visit, we’ve rounded up some of the best towns and cities to suit every kind of traveller.

Exeter

As the county town of Devon, Exeter very much serves as the historical and cultural centre of the county. Known for its magnificent cathedral, the city is steeped in rich history, with its origins going as far back as the Romans, making it a great place to visit if you’re into your history. Even if history and museums don’t interest you, you have a vast array of independent shops, restaurants and other entertainment to enjoy in the city, which will be more than enough to keep you occupied.

The best thing has to be the transport links, which allow you to make the very most of your trip, where you can explore the city, as well as being ideal for taking short trips to the coast and the nearby national park of Dartmoor.

Ilfracombe

If you want something a little less touristy yet still experience the beautiful Devon coastline, then why not plan a visit to Ilfracombe? It lies on north Devon’s rugged coastline, so it has some of the most beautiful, dramatic cliffs that are part of the South West Coast Path, as well as being near Exmoor National Park, making it a very attractive place to stay for walkers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

The town itself is pretty lively with its fully operational, charming harbour and with plenty of good places to stay nearby like The Sandy Cove Hotel. There are plenty of things to do other than going on a hike, including visiting the museum and aquarium – or you could explore well-known attractions like the Victorian bathing tunnels.

Okehampton

If you’re an avid explorer and like a bit of adventure, then maybe you should consider staying in Okehampton. Located right at the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Okehampton makes a great base location for those who would enjoy hiking across the rugged landscape. Dartmoor is the only place in England where it’s legal to go wild camping, so why not book a stay in Okehampton, then pack a bag and spend a night camping off-grid in the moorland – there’s nothing like it anywhere else.

Torquay

If you’re looking for a traditional British seaside town experience, Torquay is the perfect place. Great for all the family, it has everything a seaside town should offer and more. Beautiful coastal beaches, rich history and its beautiful palm-lined promenades make it feel like you’ve travelled abroad but still get to enjoy all your usual home comforts.

If you happen to be an Agatha Christie fan, well, enjoy walking around her local town and taking in her life and works that are commemorated throughout the town. The town, once a Victorian resort, is very much evolving into a vibrant cultural hub in the South West and makes a great place to enjoy your time in Devon.

Whether you prefer relaxing on a beach, wandering round museums or looking for adventure, Devon really does have something to offer for everyone. Each destination offers its own unique character, and with the help of this guide, you should be able to find the perfect place to stay.

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