3-Day Family Itinerary for Exploring Devon’s Best Bits
Devon is a treasure trove of natural beauty, family attractions, and coastal charm. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teens, planning a family-friendly itinerary can be the difference between a hectic trip and a holiday full of treasured memories. With two coastlines, rolling countryside, and welcoming towns, Devon offers endless opportunities for exploration—all within manageable distances that make it perfect for a short break.
This 3-day itinerary is designed to give families a varied and rewarding taste of what Devon has to offer. From sandy beaches and scenic walks to wildlife encounters and hands-on history, every day combines activities for all ages with time to relax and enjoy the scenery. Whether you’re staying in self-catering cottages, a cosy inn, or a full-service holiday park, you’ll find this plan flexible and easy to follow.
Day 1: Coastal Adventures and Seaside Fun in South Devon
Kick off Your Devon Adventure in Dawlish
Dawlish is that idyllic seaside spot where the old‑school vibe meets fresh waves. Grab your sunnies and let’s stroll along the pier—watch the iconic black swans doing their graceful glide through the cozy coastal brook.
Kid‑Approved Fun
- Mini funfair rides that’ll make your little ones squeal.
- Arcades that promise endless buttons to press.
- A sweet treat? How about a creamy ice cream right on the sand.
Just a Few Steps to Dawlish Warren
Only a short walk away, Dawlish Warren showcases perfect Blue Flag beaches with shallow waters ideal for paddling, kite flying, or just relaxing beside the dunes. The nature trails? Totally worth a hamster‑like exploration.
Midday Highlights
Spend your afternoon in the Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve—you’ll spot rare plants and watching migratory birds cruise overhead feels like living in a real nature documentary.
Food & Fun Options
- Enjoy a hearty dinner at a family‑friendly pub that’s as cozy as a snug blanket.
- Prefer to keep dinner inside? Fire up the fridge and cook up some local favorites straight from your accommodation.
Where to Stay
There are loads of holiday spots that put you right on the beach and the town centre foot‑distance away. For a top resort experience, check out Cofton Holidays: they offer:
- Spacious pools for splash‑tastic moments.
- Evening entertainment that makes you ditch that playlist.
- Bike rentals that let you roam the entire coast on two wheels.
With all these perks, your first day in Devon becomes a splashy, unforgettable adventure!
Day 2: Dartmoor Discovery and Countryside Charm
After a day by the sea, it’s time to explore Devon’s rugged heart: Dartmoor National Park. Begin your second day with a scenic drive into the moorlands, passing grazing sheep and wild ponies along the way. Your first stop could be Haytor Rocks—a relatively easy climb that offers stunning panoramic views. Children will love scrambling over the granite tors, and it’s an ideal spot for a picnic. If you’re up for a gentle walk, head towards Hound Tor, said to have inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles.
In the afternoon, make your way to the nearby village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. With its quaint tearooms, churchyard, and craft shops, it offers a lovely slice of Devon’s rural life. Families interested in local heritage should visit the Dartmoor Prison Museum in Princetown or the House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey, which also features a glassblowing studio and interactive exhibits. Many holiday cottages in Devon are based around Dartmoor, making it easy to combine a nature escape with modern comforts. Unplug from devices, embrace the scenery, and enjoy some quality family time in the countryside.
Day 3: Wildlife Encounters and Waterside Wanders
For your final day, head to the Torbay area, part of the English Riviera, to enjoy one of Devon’s top family attractions: Paignton Zoo. Home to over 2,500 animals, the zoo offers expansive enclosures, hands-on learning zones, and an immersive experience for children and adults alike. Allow at least half a day to explore, and don’t forget to pack water bottles and snacks if you prefer to avoid the on-site cafes. It’s educational, entertaining, and offers plenty of shaded paths and play areas.
After the zoo, spend your late afternoon in the charming harbour town of Brixham. With its colourful hillside cottages and replica of Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hind, there’s plenty to see and do. Grab fish and chips by the quay, enjoy a stroll along Breakwater Beach, or take a short boat trip across the bay. Staying in self-catering cottages near Torbay offers you the flexibility to unwind at your own pace and cook up a family meal after a busy day. Alternatively, this could be the perfect evening to treat yourself to a waterfront restaurant and toast a brilliant Devon adventure.
Make the Most of Every Devon Moment
Devon is a county best savoured at a family-friendly pace, where travel times are short and experiences are big. This 3-day itinerary captures the essence of Devon’s top offerings: coastal bliss, moorland majesty, and unforgettable attractions. Whether you’re based in a full-service park or exploring the county from one of many holiday accommodations in the area, there’s no shortage of options to suit your family’s style and schedule.
By combining active exploration with downtime in scenic surroundings, you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll carry home stories and smiles. So, pack your walking shoes, beach towels, and sense of adventure.
