A Few of our Favourite Things…
To Do in Devon
Below are some of the things we’ve really enjoyed doing over the years. Devon and Dartmoor are truly stunning, so we recommend making a long weekend of it. You can join the main wedding party for our itinerary (on the home page) or you can branch out and do your own thing… just enjoy…
Dartmoor
Dartmoor is acres of untouched moorland, ancient forests and rivers. It’s breathtakingly beautiful. Here are a few of our faves:
Drive along the B3387 into Widdicombe for panoramic views and wild ponies crossing the roads, without even leaving your car. You can stop off to climb Haytor if you fancy. The Rugglestone Inn and Cafe on the Green in Widdicombe are both lovely.
Venture across the moors into Wistman’s Wood and creep beneath the lichen-covered boughs. Wistman’s Wood is one of the few remaining ancient woodlands - it is said to be haunted and planted by Druids.
If you’re into wild swimming, or just lazing by the banks of the river, there’s a fab walk along the River Dart, through forestland and taking in amazing views, towards Sharrah Pool, very refreshing for a dip.
Another fave place for wild swimming is Crazywell Pool, which has some great myths and legends attached. You can do this as part of a wider scenic circular walk.
Coastal Walks and Beaches
There are some great beaches within 45 mins of our venue. We haven’t explored the North Devon beaches yet, but some we like in South Devon are: Elberry Cove, Ness Cove Beach in the picturesque town of Shaldon, Budleigh Salterton Beach.
Almost any stretch of the Jurassic Coast in South Devon is stunning, but our favourite bits are walking the National Trust cliff route from Branscombe to Beer or walking up the Estuary (also a protected bird sanctuary) from Budleigh and along the cliffs towards Ladram Bay
Restaurants
Totnes is a lovely boho town, with a Saturday Market, vintage furniture and clothes shops, a foodie scene and lots of top restaurants using local produce. The Bull Inn and Riverford Organic Field Kitchen are our faves - both require booking in advance. The Seahorse in nearby Dartmouth is also good.
For your Fish and Chips on the Beach, we recommend Budleigh Fish and Chips, Rockfish or Mickey’s Beach Bar in Exmouth, The Crab Shack in Teignmouth, Venus Cafe at Broadsands.
In Dartmoor, some nice pubs are: The Rugglestone Inn, Chagford Inn, The Anchor Inn, The Rock Inn and The Royal Oak.
We love Stage on the outskirts of Exeter. It’s reasonably priced Michelin recommended, run by a group of young guys with a passion for local food. You get an amazing tasting menu with each dish paired with a local beverage, too.