Devon is one of the UK’s favourite destinations for family holidays, and it’s easy to see why. With two stunning coastlines, national parks, award-winning attractions, and plenty of wide-open space, Devon has something for everyone. Whether you’re after an active adventure or a relaxing break by the beach, this list of the top 10 family-friendly things to do in Devon will help you make the most of your next getaway.
1. Spend the Day at Devon’s Beautiful Beaches
Devon is home to some of the best beaches in the UK, offering miles of sandy shores perfect for families.
- Woolacombe Beach is a three-mile-long stretch of golden sand on the North Devon coast. It’s ideal for bucket and spade days, sandcastle competitions, and paddling in the waves. RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach in high season, so it’s a safe spot for little ones.
- Blackpool Sands, near Dartmouth, is a sheltered bay surrounded by pines. Its calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Families can relax on the clean pebbly beach, enjoy a seaside lunch at the café, and rent deckchairs for the day.
Why Families Love It: Clean beaches, safe swimming areas, and plenty of space for games and picnics. Many nearby holiday parks make access easy and convenient.
2. Have Fun at The Big Sheep, Bideford
More than just a farm, The Big Sheep is a family-friendly theme park packed with fun activities.
- Watch hilarious sheep races and sheepdog trials that both kids and adults will love.
- Enjoy thrilling rides like the Twister Roller Coaster, and let the little ones explore soft play areas and outdoor playgrounds.
- There’s an indoor animal barn, so you can get up close to lambs, goats, and puppies, even on rainy days.
Why Families Love It: It combines a classic farm experience with theme park fun. Perfect for a whole day out with attractions for toddlers through to teens.
3. Thrills and Adventures at Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Just outside Exeter, Crealy is one of the South West’s biggest and best family theme parks.
- There are over 60 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and adventure playgrounds.
- Kids will love the animal barn and daily shows, while parents can relax with refreshments at one of the many cafes.
- If the weather turns, there are extensive indoor play zones to keep everyone entertained.
Why Families Love It: Great value for money with something for every age group. You can even stay on-site with camping and lodges available at Crealy’s own holiday resort.
4. Scenic Boat Trip from Dartmouth
Take in the breathtaking beauty of Devon’s riverside towns with a boat trip along the River Dart.
- Family-friendly cruises run from Dartmouth to Totnes, offering amazing views and chances to spot wildlife like seals and kingfishers.
- Combine your boat trip with a visit to Dartmouth Castle, perched on the river’s edge. Kids will love exploring its towers and cannons.
Why Families Love It: It’s a relaxing way to see the countryside from the water. Great for multigenerational groups and those with pushchairs.
5. Animal Encounters at Paignton Zoo
With over 2,500 animals from around the world, Paignton Zoo is one of Devon’s top attractions.
- Wander through themed habitats including Savannah, Wetlands, and the Tropics, where you’ll see giraffes, rhinos, lions, and orangutans.
- The zoo has adventure play areas, a miniature train ride, and interactive educational zones.
Why Families Love It: It’s educational, entertaining, and offers plenty of places for picnics and play. A full day out that’s suitable for all weather, thanks to its indoor exhibits.
6. Ride the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
The world’s highest and steepest water-powered railway connects the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth.
- Hop aboard for a short but thrilling ride up the cliffs, with incredible views over Exmoor and the Bristol Channel.
- At the top, explore charming Lynton with its craft shops, tearooms, and access to stunning coastal walks (for those who want them).
Why Families Love It: Kids love the novelty of a funicular railway, and adults appreciate the stunning photo opportunities. It’s a gentle, accessible way to explore this pretty part of North Devon.
7. Step into the Past at Bygones, Torquay
Travel back in time at Bygones, a unique Victorian museum in the heart of Torquay.
- Stroll along a life-size recreated Victorian street, complete with shops, a pub, and a traditional sweet shop where you can buy old-fashioned treats.
- Kids will love the model railway and interactive exhibits that bring history to life.
Why Families Love It: It’s a fascinating, hands-on history lesson and a brilliant rainy-day activity. Great for kids and grandparents alike.
8. Explore Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor’s wild beauty makes it an ideal place for family adventures.
- Discover ancient stone circles, granite tors, and mysterious legends like the Hairy Hands of Dartmoor.
- If walking isn’t your thing, enjoy a gentle drive through the moorland, stopping off at pretty villages like Widecombe-in-the-Moor for cream teas.
Why Families Love It: There’s plenty of space for kids to run free, and the wild ponies are a huge hit with young animal lovers. Letterboxing is a fun treasure hunt activity that gets the whole family involved.
9. Take a Trip on the South Devon Railway
This beautifully restored steam railway runs between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.
- The 14-mile round trip follows the River Dart through lush countryside, offering a nostalgic experience for all ages.
- Combine your visit with trips to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm or Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies, both just a short walk from the railway stations.
Why Families Love It: It’s a step back in time that train enthusiasts and young children alike will enjoy. Ideal for relaxing and seeing the countryside without walking far.
10. Visit The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
This free-to-enter sanctuary rescues and cares for donkeys from around the world.
- Meet hundreds of friendly donkeys and mules, and learn their stories in the visitor centre.
- Enjoy the tranquil walking trails with beautiful views over the Sidmouth coast, and stop for lunch at the on-site café.
Why Families Love It: It’s a peaceful, rewarding day out with lots of hands-on experiences for animal lovers. And it’s free, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Plan Your Devon Family Holiday with Caravan Sitefinder!
Devon is packed with family-friendly things to do, and staying at a holiday park is the perfect base for exploring it all. Whether you’re after a coastal park near the beach, a countryside escape with play areas, or a luxury lodge with a hot tub, Caravan Sitefinder has it all.
Why Families Love Devon
- Clean, safe beaches
- Amazing attractions for all ages
- Cream teas and fresh seafood
- Family-friendly accommodation options
- A mild climate—perfect for spring and summer getaways!
Final Tip!
Book your Devon holiday park early to get the best choice of accommodation. Explore, compare, and book directly through Caravan Sitefinder to start your family adventure in Devon today.
