Local Activities
Things to do
Places to eat
Local activites
Places to visit and things to do
Based in a prime location we are surrounded by beautiful countryside, picturesque scenery, aged castles and churches and much more.
Visit Devon and you’ll find an abundance of things to do…for free! Devon has plenty to do and see that won’t cost you a penny, so if you’re trying to keep those holiday costs down but don’t want to skimp on the enjoyment, then Devon’s the right destination for you.
We have two amazing National Parks, Dartmoor and Exmoor. Both have their own unique characters – while Dartmoor is a wild, wide-open place filled with mystery, towering granite Tors and dramatic scenery, Exmoor (although it too has its open spaces), is filled with secret, hidden treasures such as Tarr Steps.
Ramble the length of Devon for free on the South West Coast Path, a fantastic route which will introduce you to some of the finest views and bring you all the way around to the Jurassic Coast, where you can hunt on the beach for fossils.
Throughout Devon, a network of paths and bridleways will take you off the beaten track and into the heart of the countryside – and there are plenty of local pubs on the way to grab some well-earned refreshments too. For a free walk in the city, try one of Exeter’s Red Coat Guided Tours, a must on any visit to Exeter.
Try geocaching – otherwise known as a digital treasure hunt. Hunting for hidden ‘caches’ using a smartphone for navigation is becoming increasingly popular, and is a great way to get children out on a walk. It’s also surprisingly easy to get started; read our guide to geocaching in Devon.
If you like a bit of culture, there are plenty of freebies on offer too. Wander around west Devon’s castles at Lydford, or visit the West Devon UNESCO World Heritage. You can visit the fascinating herb gardens at Buckfast Abbey (and pick up a bottle of their famous fortified wine while you’re there) or follow the Agatha Christie Literary Trail through Torquay and Torbay for a glimpse into the Queen of Crime’s life.
Lydford is local to the Trans Euro Trail (TET) which is a cultural dirt road adventure. Comprising of over 51,000km of dirt road, the Trans Euro Trail is an epic motorcycle journey through some of Europe’s most remote, diverse and inspirational landscapes.
Lydford Gorge
The deepest gorge in the South of England which stretches one and a half miles from the west end of Lydford Village. There are National Trust refreshment tea rooms and parking at both ends of the gorge.
The Granite Way
The Granite Way is a mostly traffic-free, 9-mile cycle and walkway from Okehampton to Lydford and forms part of the National Cycle Network.
Cothele House and Gardens
A wonderful historic and unspoiled property with vast gardens. Walk down to the quayside, visit the maritime museum and further on the working water-driven mill.
Castle Drogo
The last castle ever completed in the UK. It has great gardens and views coupled with the unusual property.
Lydford Castle
Found between the church and the Castle Inn in the west of the village. The circa 9thC Lydford Castle, an ancient prison, is maintained by English Heritage.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park has a beautiful moorland landscape with wooded valleys and wind-swept Tors. It is a walkers’ paradise, or try the popular pass time of Letterboxing (a form of orienteering). Clues are sold for charity at site reception.
Buckland Abbey
A beautiful house and gardens once home to Sir Francis Drake.
Widecombe in the Moor
A lovely village in the middle of the moor. Famous for Widecombe Fair and the song ‘Uncle Tom Cobley’.
Lydford Church
A beautiful and fascinating church with an extensive history. Found at the west end of the village. You can learn a lot about the area and the village with a walk around the church yard and buildings.
The Eden Project
The Eden Project is one of the West Country’s most spectacular visits. It will provide an exciting and fabulous day out for all the family.
Finch Foundry
Step back in time to visit this working water-powered foundry. There are talks and demonstrations daily. Take a walk around Sticklepath village while you are there.
Dartmoor Prison
Princetown is home to the fascinating Dartmoor Prison. While there you can also visit the Moorland Centre, the official visitor and information centre for Dartmoor.
© Image copyright held by respective websites unless otherwise highlighted.
Places to eat Locally
If you are looking for somewhere to eat nearby to the site, here are some local places to visit.
Lydford Gorge Tea Rooms
The tea rooms can be found at both ends of the gorge. Open all day with a varied menu.
The Castle Inn
Lydford. 400 yards west from the site. Great food and drink served all day, including breakfast, in an Olde Worlde setting. Memorabilia on the walls depict the village’s history.
Dartmoor Inn
The Dartmoor Inn is a high end restaurant with award winning food and drink.
Fox and Hounds
A traditional English country pub that serves food all day, from pub grub to full a la carte.
01822 820206
Places to eat further afield
Looking to go further afield and explore? Check out these places to visit.
Bearslake Inn
A beautiful thatched Devon longhouse serving superb food in a lovely setting. Evenings and Sunday Lunch only.
The Highwayman
A World famous “folly” pub. Serves drink, ploughman and pasties. It is as much a tourist destination as a pub.
White Hart Bridestowe.
An attractive traditional village pub in an interesting village, serving good food in a very pleasant dining room or the bar.
Mary Tavy Inn.
A homely pub/restaurant serving sensibly priced food in nice surroundings
Peter Tavy Inn
Great food and drink in a lovely but different setting.
The Blacksmiths Arms
The blacksmiths is a friendly local serving top class food and drinks seven days a week with its roots firmly within tradition and quality.
Local activities
Walking
Walking is virtually endless from the site. We will be pleased to advise and suggest walks. Try letterboxing on Dartmoor (a form of orienteering). Good walking clothing and footwear is advisable when walking on Dartmoor, but please keep clear of MOD areas we can advise about MOD firing areas and timings.
Cycling
The famous, mainly level, Granite Way Cycle Path starts near the site. Ask for a leaflet and advice. The local terrain is otherwise hilly and should be taken into consideration before setting out.
Fishing
There are many river/lake/sea fishing opportunities in the area.
Games on site
Ball games are not permitted, and frisbees, kites, or other projectile activities are not allowed on site. However, a recreation ground close to the site is open to the public.