Devon and Cornwall are popular holiday destinations for Brits. We take a look at the best destinations for those wanting a relaxing break but with the facilities of a town.
When it comes to choosing some of the best places to visit in the West Country (Devon and Cornwall), it can be hard to choose between the many impressive sites. Two regions that are famous for their celtic myths, unspoilt natural landscapes, seaside towns, and many iconic and picturesque towns.
Devon and Cornwall are home to castles, rivers, cathedrals, moorland, and, of course, a fierce rivalry over cream teas and who created them (the people of Devon or Cornwall) and which is the ‘real’ way to put together a scone – jam first or cream first.
Thinking of planning a trip to either of these beautiful counties or both as part of a road trip? Below is a guide to some of the top tourist towns that these counties boast and why you should pay them a visit.
Torcross, Devon
Have a passion for learning more about wartime? Then Torcross is somewhere that you have to visit, because this was the site of Operation Tiger and is renowned for the role it played in the D-Day Landings.
This seaside village is steeped in history and heritage and even boasts an old wartime tank and war memorial unlike any other. Just along the coastal path you will find Hallsands, a village that was washed away as a result of the dredging for the wartime docks in Devon city of Plymouth.
Tintagel, Cornwall
If you’re going to visit Cornwall, you have to see Tintagel. On the peninsula of this small town stands the ruins of the famous Tintagel Castle, a beautiful sight. This castle dates back to the 13th century and is steeped in history and heritage, mot notably being associated with the legends surrounding King Arthur and the knights of the Round Table.
Just outside of the town is St. Nectan’s Glen, a woodland walk which leads to three incredible waterfalls that are said to have ‘healing’ capabilities. The town itself is home to all manner of boutiques, including a highly popular fudge shop called ‘Granny’s Wobbly Fudge’.
Clovelly, Devon
Situated on the north Devon coastline, Clovelly is a fishing village that retains its traditional feel, complete with cobbled streets and historic pieces of architecture.
There is no vehicles allowed on the main street which runs from one end of the village to the other, which is why donkeys and sledges are still used to deliver goods. The whole of this village is privately owned and has been for several centuries, being passed from one family to another.
Padstow, Cornwall
No trip to Cornwall is complete without a trip to Padstow, the home of icon cooking show River Cottage and renowned chef, Rick Stein’s fish and chip shop and deli.
This charming fishing port town has a lot to offer its visitors, from chic boutiques, bars and eateries to stretches of sandy beach and the Camel Trail, a popular biking trail. There’s also a range of activities here, including crazy golf and a wide selection of watersports, from surfing to kayaking.
Dartmouth, Devon
Situated on the banks of the beautiful River Dart, Dartmouth is a destination that’s popular for year-round breaks. It’s home to a wide range of local shops, cafes, bars and eateries (if you’re going to eat here, Alfresco’s is a must-visit), in addition to a small port that is in the centre of the town.
With a significant naval history and a naval base in the town, Dartmouth has plenty of heritage and history to share, including a small castle to explore.
Mevagissey, Cornwall
Mevagissey, a traditional old town that was once at the centre of Cornwall’s fishing industry, and still boasts a working harbour. This town has a tradition for boat building, with many companies still building boats here today.
The narrow streets of Mevagissey are filled with gift shops, galleries, bars and eateries, and in the summer months are swarmed by tourists. Just a short distance from Mevagissey are the world-famous Lost Gardens of Heligan, an incredible botanical garden.
Salcombe, Devon
A popular resort town in South Devon, Salcombe is a beautiful destination and one that every visitor to the South Hams should explore. It’s a waterfront town that has the Salcombe Estuary running by it, and is home to a range of estuary beaches, including South Sands, and also a string of sandy beaches (Fisherman’s Cove, Mill Bay, and Sunny Cove) just a short boat ride away across the water.
Home to the renowned Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream brand, Salcombe is famous for it’s array of sweet treats, from its handmade ice cream to its range of sweets at its traditional sweet shop (Cranch’s Sweet Shop).
Porthcurno, Cornwall
Located in the far west of Cornwall, Porthcurno has the most incredible beach boasting a long stretch of golden sand and crystal clear waters, which has won many awards, including the 2015 Good Beach Award. Complete with a fresh water stream that flows through the beach where children can safely play, this beach and area is highly popular with families.
Atop the cliffs beside the beach is the world-famous Minack Theatre, a 1920s open air theatre where you can spend a few hours exploring or can book to watch a show there – various performances are still put on here on a regular basis.
Totnes, Devon
A historic market town with a quirky and unique flare, Totnes is a must-visit place if you are in Devon. Combining alternative therapies, traditional buildings, and a fascinating history, Totnes is a lively town that has a reputation as being a diverse and unique location complete with a relaxed atmosphere.
There are markets here on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the year, with a traditional Victorian Market complete with Victorian dress up, being held here every Tuesday. Renowned for its ethically sourced products, wide range of wholefoods, and selection of vegan cafes, Totnes offers a unique experience of modern day life.
Of all the places to visit in the UK, the South West of England is one of the most amazing. Complete with a range of different towns and villages, each of which boasting an experience unlike any other, this is a region that has a lot to offer visitors, which is why both Devon and Cornwall are tourist hotspots in the warmer summer months.
As you’ve probably guessed, we are huge fans of this region! It’s incredible that so many people living in Britain have never considered travelling down here. We hope this article has inspired you to plan your own domestic holiday.
If it has, why not share your plans on Pinterest? We’ve got just the pin for that…
