Devon is full of unique experiences for you to enjoy on your holiday, from underground caves to a gnome reserve and alpaca trekking, we really do have it all.
Most are dog-friendly, and each activity is a short drive away from most of the key towns in Devon, so they are easy to enjoy either on a day-trip or as a morning/afternoon activity.
Trek with alpacas through Dartmoor National Park
Lydford Gorge Alpacas, located in Dartmoor National Park, offers a unique Alpaca experience in Devon.
You can trek with the alpacas on a half-day trekking excursion through the beautiful Devon countryside, where you will lead your own alpaca across a picturesque moorland track in Dartmoor National Park.
Go wildlife spotting on an unspoilt island
Situated off the coast of North Devon, where the Atlantic ocean meets the Bristol Channel, Lundy Island makes for a hugely popular day trip for visitors to the region.
Get the ferry from Clovelly Quay or Bideford, and enjoy its picture-postcard scenery and exotic array of wildlife.
Among the animals you’re likely to spot here are sika deer, wild goats and the only native mammal, the pygmy shrew.
Take the kids (and the dog) to the Gnome Reserve
The Gnome Reserve near Bideford is a truly unique experience, where over 1,000 gnomes are gathered across beautiful and enchanting gardens.
It’s dog-friendly, great for kids and adults alike, and you also have the option of borrowing a gnome outfit and posing with your new-found friends if you so wish.
This is a truly kitsch way to spend an afternoon in North Devon.
Wander around a picturesque honey farm
A family run business first established in 1949, Quince Honey Farm is now in its third generation and with over 1500 hives its owners are always refining their beekeeping techniques and growing in knowledge.
Set in over 40 acres, the site’s beautifully landscaped Nectar gardens are planted with millions of bee friendly plants.
When you need a break, head back to the Visitors Centre where you’ll find a restaurant serving up delicious home-made meals, drinks and special honey cream teas.
Become a falconer
Devon has lots of places where you can see falconry shows, including Woodlands Family Theme Park near Dartmouth.
But for the ultimate falconry experience, you can go on a hawk walk where you will learn all about these incredible birds.
You’ll also get hands on and fly a hawk for the ultimate unique thing to do in Devon.
Go underground at Kents Cavern
One of Devon’s most unique attractions can be found on the English Riviera and the prehistoric hollows known as Kents Cavern.
Just one hour from the delightful holiday town of Beer, his ancient cave system is one of the most significant Stone Age sites in Europe and once provided warmth and shelter to prehistoric tribes behind its 400-million-year-old rock formations.
Marvel at the stalagmites and stalactites as you walk the guided tour to see remnants of early man alongside the bones and teeth of Ice Age beasts.
Ride a sea tractor
One of the most unique things to do in Devon – you literally can’t do it anywhere else in the world – is to ride the hydraulic sea tractor to Burgh Island. The tractor is one of a kind and was designed in 1969 by Robert Jackson CBE.
You don’t need to stay on Burgh Island to hop on the tractor as it runs for members of the public too. for just £2 you can ride across the tidal beach and walk around this rugged island.
Enjoy contemporary art at Broomhill Sculpture Park
This collection of contemporary sculptures in North Devon is beautiful, fascinating and thought-provoking. Wandering around the pretty (and dog-friendly!)
Broomhill Sculpture Park will reward you with bronze and marble sculptures from a range of award-winning artists from around the globe, with artefacts ranging from sublime to rather sinister.
Summer, when the stunning garden is in full bloom, is the best time to visit.
Marvel at a 900-year-old medieval cathedral
Immerse yourself in Christian history as you explore the stunning architecture of Exeter Cathedral. Dating back nearly 1,000 years, Exeter Cathedral was built with engineering and design skills that have enabled it to last hundreds of years!
Among its most eye-catching features are what is said to be the world’s longest stretch of unbroken Gothic vaulting, stunning stained glass windows and a 15th century Astronomical Clock.
You can join guided tours or book onto special roof tours that takes you into the roof void high above the cathedral’s Nave.
