So much to do
Many believe that South Devon and the South Hams area in particular can boast some of the most picturesque countryside in the County. Stunning beaches and coastline, rolling hills, and beautiful towns and villages captivate the thousands that flock to this area every year as well as those of us who are lucky enough to sample its beauty every day.
The South Hams covers an area of 342 square miles with 55 miles of coastline. 130 square miles (337 sq.km.) of the district is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with 30.86 square mile coverage of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). There are 62 miles (100 km) of coastal path and 16 miles (26 km) of beaches. Approximately 30 miles (50 km) coastline is owned by the National Trust and 47 miles (75 km) is designated Heritage Coast.
Busier in peak season and particularly popular during the summer if you're looking for that ‘away-from-it all’ holiday experience, the area boasts safe sandy coves for sandcastles whilst crabbing, rock-pooling and surfing prove as popular as ever with children and parents alike.
Springtime is the perfect time of year to enjoy this beautiful area and spring certainly comes earlier, with beautiful wild flowers, rare birds and wildlife completing the picture. The Easter holidays are the ideal time to book a short break in the South Hams, the southernmost part of Devon. With a milder climate, wonderful walking, sailing and water sports, fantastic pubs, cream teas and plenty of individual shops in quaint streets to explore where you can enjoy the fresh air and lovely walks.
Places to visit range from maritime Plymouth, Dartmouth and Brixham, historic Exeter and Totnes, coastal Torquay, Paignton and Teignmouth - something for everyone. You can experience a vast selection of outdoor pursuits such as horse back riding or golf (2 miles from the hotel) and there is plenty to do for families - something for everyone.
At the end of the day, return to the Inn in the confident knowledge that you will enjoy good food, fine wines, and a comfortable bed.
A sample of places to visit during your stay......
Hedgehog Hospital & British Wildlife Garden Centre
Prickly Ball Farm
Denbury Road
Newton Abbot
Tel: +44 (0)1626 362 319
Have great day out somewhere really different. Prickly Ball Farm is a special place for hedgehogs, there is Hedgerow Village, a hedgehog friendly garden and a very busy hospital. At your visit you may see hedgehogs being admitted by the RSPCA of from a veterinary surgery, you may witness some treatments, or see baby hedgehogs bottle feeding in season.
There are 'meet the hedgehog' times throughout the day, where you can learn about this delightful gardeners friend and see how to make our gardens much safer. There is a wildlife garden and plants to buy to make your garden more wildlife friendly.
River Dart Country Park
From Plymouth take the first Ashburton turning from the A38 Devon Expressway and follow the brown tourist signs (River Dart Country Park). Entrance 3/4 of a mile on the left.
The park features family orientated adventure activities set in beautiful parkland along side the River Dart.
Dartington Pottery at the Ciderpress, Dartington
One of the leading UK studio potteries offering unique pottery, custom made as well as ready to buy.
Butterflies and Otters, Buckfastleigh
An all-weather family visit. Otters are fed three times daily; underwater viewing area; live exotic tropical butterflies in a rain forest habitat to wander through; butterfly hatching area; also birds, fish, terrapins and other small creatures.
Dartmoor Wildlife Park, Sparkwell
Set in 30 acres of beautiful Devon countryside with over 150 species of animals, including a comprehensive Big Cat collection. Falconry displays are held daily.
Paignton Zoo Environmental Park
Totnes Road, Paignton
Tel: +44 (0)1803 697 500
It's one of England's biggest zoos with over 1,000 animals including tigers, lions, gorillas, orangs, elephants and hundreds of birds and one of the Westcountry's most popular attractions, with nearly half a million visitors.
Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway
Queen's Park Station
Torbay Road
Paignton
Tel: +44 (0) 1803 553760
Becky Falls Woodland Park
High on Dartmoor, 750 feet above the sea lies a tranquil hidden valley enjoyed by visitors since Victorian times. Becky Falls Woodland Park with its huge oak canopy, rugged landscape, massive granite boulders and waterfalls provides some of the most scenic and enjoyable walks in the south west as well as loads of fun for all the family.
There are birds of prey and owls, most of which have been rescued. Other animals for the public to experience and touch include pygmy goats, French lop rabbits, sheep and lambs to feed and pony rides for small children during the summer school holidays (at certain times).
Cafeteria, gift and craft shops. Nature trail competitions for children, 'Becky' box hunts, wildlife discovery trails and education packs offer fun for all and cream teas, snacks and light meals are on hand to fortify the weary.
Newton Abbot
Newton Abbot is located close to the Dartmoor National Park with its beautiful scenery, as well as attractive beaches at Dawlish, Teignmouth and Torquay.
Straddling the River Lemon this lively, bustling town has been a market town since 1220 and offers the visitor a whole range of markets as well as historic buildings, lovely parks and a working malthouse!
Torquay
Torquay has a Mediterranean feel with its own café culture and modern international marina, luxurious in high season with splendid yachts and ocean going vessels. Torquay is England’s premier family resort, boasting safe sandy beaches and exciting nightlife. There are many great attractions for all the family, including, bars, restaurants, theatres and much more. Water sports of all kinds are available for those looking for a more active holiday. Spectacular walks and cliff top views are available or you may decide to relax on the deck chairs on long seafront promenades.
Totnes (about 20 minutes)
Totnes is historically one of the finest towns in the country. First mentioned in the reign of Edgar (about 959), it was then probably a small settlement. Since then many tales are told of this busy little town, which is really one long street climbing up a hill by the River Dart.
This historic town boasts a variety of ancient buildings dating back to Norman, Medieval and Tudor times. Totnes was once a Fort to protect the upper reaches of the river from Viking invasion and it is the second oldest borough in England.
The town is known for its variety of specialty shops where you can find second-hand books, antiques, crafts, fine arts, handmade shoes, jewellery, wholefoods, natural medicines, unusual boutiques, hand-made furniture and musical instruments.
Beaches
Devon boasts literally hundreds of beaches and coves. The award of a European Blue Flag is a symbol of high environmental standards as well as good sanitary and safety facilities. Here are some of the local Blue Flag Beaches:
Blackpool Sands (South Hams)
Meadfoot (Torquay, Torbay)
Oddicombe (Torquay, Torbay)
Bigbury on Sea (South Hams)
Broadsands (Paignton, Torbay)
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