Devon and Cornwall

Travel to Devon & Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall are two beautiful counties located in the South West of England, boasting a diverse range of landscapes and attractions. From stunning sandy beaches to rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, there's something for everyone to explore.

Devon is known for its beautiful countryside, with Dartmoor National Park being a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities. It also has a rich maritime history, with the city of Plymouth being a major naval port.

Cornwall is renowned for its stunning coastline, which includes charming fishing villages and historic ports such as St Ives and Falmouth. It is also home to a range of beautiful gardens, including the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the world-famous Eden Project.

Both counties offer a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, cycling, and walking. The area is also known for its delicious food and drink, with local specialties such as clotted cream and pasties being popular with tourists.

With a rich history and vibrant culture, Devon and Cornwall are two of the UK's most popular tourist destinations. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of the world.

Getting to Devon & Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall are located in the South West of England, and there are several ways to get there depending on your starting point.

By Car: If you're traveling from other parts of the UK, the easiest way to reach Devon and Cornwall is by car. The M5 motorway runs through Devon, making it easily accessible from the rest of the country. From there, the A30 provides access to Cornwall.

By Train: Devon and Cornwall are served by several major train stations, including Plymouth, Exeter, and Truro. Trains run regularly from London and other major cities in the UK, with journey times varying depending on the starting point.

By Bus: National Express runs coaches to several destinations in Devon and Cornwall, including Plymouth, Exeter, and Newquay. This is a more affordable option than traveling by train, but journey times can be longer.

By Air: The nearest airports to Devon and Cornwall are Exeter Airport and Newquay Airport. These airports have regular flights to destinations across the UK and Europe.

Once you've arrived in Devon or Cornwall, the best way to get around is by car, as public transport can be limited in some areas. However, there are also bus and train services available, as well as taxis and private hire vehicles.

Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Devon & Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall are home to a variety of unique and off the beaten track stays and experiences that offer a different perspective on the region. Here are a few examples:

Converted Railway Carriages: Stay in a converted railway carriage for a truly unique holiday experience. These quirky accommodations can be found in several locations throughout Devon and Cornwall, including in the Tamar Valley and on the North Cornwall coast. Some of them offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coast.

Treehouse Accommodation: For those who love nature, a treehouse stay could be just the ticket. There are several treehouse accommodations available in Devon and Cornwall, including near the town of Bideford in North Devon and on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. These provide a secluded and peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

Shepherd's Huts: Stay in a cozy shepherd's hut for a rustic and charming holiday experience. These small huts are typically located in rural areas, and offer a peaceful and quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. They can be found in several locations throughout Devon and Cornwall, including near the village of Tavistock in Devon.

Walking and Cycling Holidays: For those who want to get active and explore the region's stunning landscapes, walking and cycling holidays are a great option. There are several companies that offer guided tours, including self-guided tours, of Devon and Cornwall's countryside and coast. This is a great way to discover hidden gems and off the beaten track locations that you might not have otherwise found.

Wild Swimming: For the more adventurous traveler, wild swimming is a unique and exciting experience that can be enjoyed in several locations throughout Devon and Cornwall. This involves swimming in natural bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and the sea, rather than in a traditional swimming pool. Some popular spots for wild swimming include the River Dart in Devon and the Helford River in Cornwall.

Top 10 things to do in Devon & Cornwall

1. Visit the Eden Project: This world-famous attraction in Cornwall is home to a series of giant biomes containing plants from all over the world. It's a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
2. Explore Dartmoor National Park: This stunning national park in Devon is a haven for hikers, with miles of trails to explore. It's also home to a range of wildlife, including wild ponies.
3. See St Michael's Mount: This historic island off the coast of Cornwall is home to a stunning castle and beautiful gardens. Visitors can walk across the causeway at low tide, or take a boat at high tide.
4. Discover Tintagel Castle: This ancient castle in Cornwall is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, and is steeped in history and legend. It's also home to stunning coastal views.
5. Visit Plymouth Hoe: This historic landmark in Devon offers stunning views of the sea and the city, as well as several interesting attractions, including Smeaton's Tower lighthouse.
6. Explore the Lost Gardens of Heligan: These beautiful gardens in Cornwall were lost for decades, but have since been restored to their former glory. They're a great place to relax and unwind.
7. Wander through Clovelly Village: This picturesque fishing village in Devon is a popular spot for tourists, with its cobbled streets and traditional buildings. It's also home to several charming pubs and restaurants.
8. See Exeter Cathedral: This stunning cathedral in Devon is one of the region's most impressive landmarks, with its Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
9. Walk the Jurassic Coast: This stunning stretch of coastline in Devon and Dorset is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is home to a range of interesting geological features and fossils.
10. Follow the South West Coast Path: This long-distance walking trail covers over 600 miles of coastline in Devon and Cornwall, offering stunning views and plenty of opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty.

The climate of Devon & Cornwall

The climate of Devon and Cornwall is classified as oceanic, which means that it is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The region experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, with cool summers and mild winters. The climate is also known for being changeable and unpredictable, with rain being a common occurrence at any time of year.

During the summer months, which typically last from June to September, temperatures in Devon and Cornwall range from around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with occasional periods of warmer weather. The summer months are generally the driest time of year, with less rain than other seasons.

In the winter months, which typically last from November to February, temperatures in Devon and Cornwall range from around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), with occasional periods of colder weather. Winter is also the wettest time of year, with more rainfall than other seasons.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Devon and Cornwall, with temperatures ranging from around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). These seasons can be quite mild and pleasant, although they can also be quite wet and windy.

Overall, the climate of Devon and Cornwall is mild and temperate, with plenty of rain throughout the year. Visitors should be prepared for changeable weather and should bring appropriate clothing and footwear for all types of conditions.