Heading for the beautiful Devonshire countryside, and looking for some pointers on things to do in the area? There are activities for everyone, from those who just want a quiet walk, to those with kids looking for some entertaining for the whole day. This guide suggests plans for each day of the week, including places to eat if the areas mentioned do not have easy access to food and drink. You can mix and match activities, or follow the plan exactly. Have fun!
MONDAY
Stuart Lines Cruises bird-watching boat trip
Whether you fancy some calming bird-watching from their boat trips and cruises, or you're more in the mood for their new speed-boat RIB trips, which can reach up to 60mph speeds on a calm day! You can check out the extensive information, trip times and booking information on the Stuart Line webpage here: http://www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk/
Powderham Castle
Powerdam Castle is located along the River Exe, and has been welcoming visitors to its beautiful grounds since 1959. There are lots of attractions to keep old and young alike occupied such as the Secret Garden and Courtenay Fort. The tea rooms can provide a light lunch for visitors, although you might want to make contact and check whether the menu suits beforehand. The castle is open to visitors from 4th April to 28th October, and you can find more details on their website here: http://www.powderham.co.uk/
TUESDAY
Canonteign Falls
In the beautiful Teign Valley, this nature reserve has some picturesque walks, stunning waterfalls, and an assault course for the kids (and the adults if you're so inclined!). There are picnic areas, and a restaurant for you to have a hearty lunch after walking the falls. More information can be found here: http://www.canonteignfalls.com/
House of Marbles
This is a trip for adults and kids alike, with some huge marble-run constructions, a marble museum and a well stocked marble shop. There are contact details and links to information on this page: http://www.houseofmarbles.com/
WEDNESDAY
Quay West
If you're feeling active, or you've got kids to occupy, Quaywest Waterpark can take up a whole day of activity! There are plenty of food places within the park, so you don't need to go hunting for lunch. Check the website for more information on tickets, opening months, and available attractions and slides: http://www.quaywest.co.uk/
Nigel Mansell World Of Racing
For racing and Nigel Mansell fans, you can view a unique cinematic production on his racing history here, and stand beside the cars featured later on. Experiences need to be booked, so you can find contact information and booking details here: http://www.nigelmansell.co.uk/wor/
THURSDAY
Buckfast Abbey
This beautiful and fully working Abbey is definitely worth a visit if you are in Devon, with tons to see and a guided tour available. The monks that occupy the Abbey still maintain the famous bee-hives, to produce Buckfast Honey, and Buckfast Tonic Wine is also made on site. There is a produce shop, exhibitions and more, see information on their website: http://www.buckfast.org.uk/
Quince Honey Farm
Make this a honey day and visit the largest honey farm in the country, for a guided tour and a run-through of the entire honey making process. They have information and contact details on their website: http://www.quincehoney.co.uk
FRIDAY
Paignton Zoo
The Zoo can easily take all day, and has eateries on site so you don't need to worry about leaving for lunch. If you want to do justice to all the animals and events available, take a look at the website for information on feeding times and plan your trip around the animals you are most interested in: http://www.paigntonzoo.org.uk/
SATURDAY
Dartington Crystal
Perhaps less of a trip for the kiddies, with a wide range of crystal creations in the extensive shop. There is also an interesting wine-tasting guide on the website here: http://www.dartington.co.uk/
River Dart Adventures
This family run business have a bouldering and climbing wall, forest tree platforms and metal zip wires, high ropes courses and the chance to canoe on the River Dart. If you're not quite as adventurous, the surrounding countryside offers numerous walks and views, and you can find more information here: http://www.riverdart.co.uk/
SUNDAY
Becky Falls
Along with the beautiful falls, this area has walks, food and the traditional Victorian Flea Circus to see! Whether its for some entertainment, or just to watch the falls, you can spend all day in this spot. You can find images and more information on the site here: http://www.beckyfalls.com/
South Devon Railway
This beatifully preserved old train provides a carriage where you can sit and enjoy cream-teas as the train hoots its way through the Devonshire countryside, and there are first-class cabins with padded seats to try on the trip home. You can find contact information and train times here: http://www.southdevonrailway.org/
The Author: The Long Range Hotel is based in Budleigh Salterton, and offers the perfect base for a Devon holiday. Just five minutes from the Jurassic Coast, and fifteen minutes from the quiet and friendly high street, the hotel offers fine food and drink, friendly yet discreet hosting and a tranquil, relaxing environment. You can find further information, and pictures, on their website here: http://www.thelongrangehotel.co.uk
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
