Our top 10 things to do in North Devon

Looking for things to do in North Devon? You’ll be spoilt for choice! 

North Devon has a plethora of attractions and things to do to suit all ages and budgets. Whether you’re a bit of a thrill seeker, or a family with young children, there is so much for you to enjoy in North Devon – come and see for yourselves! 

Whilst you're here, why not check out our wet weather guide to North Devon and our guide to the best family attractions in Devon too?

Lundy Island: the best day out for wildlife and adventure

Situated a few miles off the Devon coast is a little island that’s just 3 miles long and half a mile wide. It has a pub that never closes, it's home to puffins, seals and seabirds, and is nothing short of magical. Catch MS Oldenburg from Bideford or Ilfracombe and spend a day on this wild and beautiful granite outcrop in the Atlantic!

Lundy Island is a walker’s paradise; because of its remoteness, the wildlife here is often compared to that of the Galapagos, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

The North Devon Wake Park: the best day out for water sports

Anyone can wakeboard, with the right tuition, a lovely stretch of open water, and a cable tow to take you there – and you can find all that right here in Devon! 

This family-owned wake park also has a water obstacle course that everyone is sure to love, with slides and jumps. And they do a very fine bacon sarnie too, for those of us who may be less adventurous!

The Big Sheep: the best day out for young families

This North Devon attraction has been wowing kids (and parents) for years with its wonderfully fun mix of woolly shenanigans, rides and hands-on shepherding! 

At The BIG Sheep, you can feed lambs, learn about the humble sheep, cheer on the sheep race, and have a fun time on a series of rides. 

The Milky Way: the best day out for rollercoaster experiences

The Milky Way has five fantastic rides to go on as often as you like, but there’s more to the rollercoaster experience than that. It has an indoor play area for kids with slides, ball pools and nets to explore, birds of prey shows, little kids’ adventures, sports and more. 

Most of the activities are included in the price too, making it a fun and affordable day out for the whole family. 

Lydford Gorge: the best day out for wild waters

Deep in the wilds of Dartmoor, you’ll find Lydford Gorge, a remarkable valley that’s home to the Devil’s Cauldron, a swirling vortex of angry white water, and the White Lady waterfall, Devon’s tallest waterfall. Be sure to check out our top waterfalls guide in Devon for more inspiration too! 

Between the two are a series of wonderful woodland walks. There’s an adventure playground too…oh…and an amazing café! 

RHS Rosemoor: the best day out for flowers and blooms

This wonderful garden near Torrington is a haven of peace and quiet. Despite the tranquillity, there is plenty going on, and lots to admire about the way the gardens have been zoned and planted. 

The RHS Garden Rosemoor is illuminated in the winter and there’s always something on for the kids, whether it’s bug days or live theatre.

Woolacombe Beach: the best day out for a world-class beach experience

There are lots of other world-class beaches in Devon, of course, but Woolacombe is the one that’s the darling of TripAdvisor reviewers. It’s consistently voted as the top UK beach and is among those considered the best in the world. Why? 

Golden sands. Great restaurants nearby. Good facilities. Lovely outlook. Clean water. What more could you ask? Read our best beaches in North Devon guide for even more 'beach day' inspiration. 

Quince Honey Farm: the best day out for everything ‘bees’

Wander around the Nectar Gardens, see millions of bees up close, visit the Honey Factory and look behind the scenes at the honey production areas – even get hands-on and become a beekeeper for the day.

At Quince Honey Farm, there are also meadow trails, a large indoor and outdoor play area, and anas on-site restaurant – and dogs are welcome everywhere (excluding the soft play areas) too!

Combe Martin Dinosaur and Wildlife Park: the best day out for wolves and dinosaurs

Don’t worry: the dinosaurs at Combe Martin Dinosaur and Wildlife Park aren’t real, although you’d be forgiven for thinking they are! Created by master craftsmen, the animatronic beasts are the closest you’ll get to a living breathing T-Rex. 

But that’s not all: there are lions, wolves, penguins, sea lions, lemurs, meerkats and wallabies too! What more could a small person need? 

The Tarka Trail: the best day out for walks and traffic-free cycling

The Tarka Trail runs from Braunton to Meeth near Torrington, and offers almost 30 miles of traffic-free walking and cycling, with lots of great stop-offs, cafes and attractions along the way, as well as places to hire a bike if you didn’t bring one. 

It was built on the former railway line, which means the cycling is never too steep, although the downhill section from Torrington towards Bideford can be an easy freewheel! The countryside is lovely and the river views astounding – and it’s an easy way to visit Torrington, Bideford, Barnstaple and Braunton, as well as being a great way to beat the traffic.

Stay with us in Devon

Of course, after a busy day exploring all the best things to do in North Devon, you will need somewhere to relax, so why not browse through our range of self-catering holiday cottages in North Devon?