It’s about time you dropped everything and headed straight to Devon. With its diverse landscapes, endless beaches, rich wildlife, lively festivals and fascinating historic sites, there is no end to the great things to do in Devon. As always, we believe that the best way to explore this seaside region is behind the wheel of a motorhome. So, we’ve rounded up a four-day Devon road trip itinerary to take you through our favourite destinations in this stunning region.
We’ve managed to turn the best places to visit in Devon into an (almost) circular road trip, so you can also opt to do it the opposite way around. Let the adventure begin!
Day 1 - Exeter
We’re starting this Devon road trip itinerary in Exeter, an ancient city best known for its university. But while Exeter University is undoubtedly impressive, there is plenty more to this charming destination. Located on the River Exe, Exeter dates back to the Roman era, and traces of this can still be found in the architecture and cobbled streets.
This is the perfect place to start your trip, especially if you’re travelling over from the north or east of the UK. You can easily spend a day (or more) indulging in everything that Exeter has to offer.
Things to do in Exeter:
Stroll along the historic quayside. Exeter’s Quayside is a picturesque area with a mix of historic buildings, shops, and cafes. You can take a leisurely walk along the River Exe, rent a kayak, or enjoy a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants.
For a bit of culture, head to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM). This museum offers a diverse range of exhibits, from fine art to natural history, and it's free to enter! The collection includes local artefacts, Egyptian mummies, and art from around the world, providing something for everyone!
While in Exeter, visit the majestic Exeter Cathedral. This stunning medieval cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in England. With its intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained glass windows, it's a must-see for visitors.
Staying at: Woodland Springs Touring
This campsite is just outside of Exeter and perfectly positions you to explore the majestic Dartmoor National Park tomorrow. A peaceful, adults-only site, Woodland Springs Touring is situated beside a slow-running river. Facilities include free showers, indoor dishwashing, washing machines, award-winning restrooms, and a shop offering essentials like local cider and beer. Impressively, all facilities are accessible to disabled visitors, making it a welcoming spot for everyone.
Venton, Drewsteignton, Exeter EX6 6PG
50.706135, -3.850195
Day 2 - Dartmoor National Park
Time to leave the city and head into nature! Pack up your motorhome and drive half an hour to Dartmoor National Park. This rugged region feels too perfect to exist in real life. Covering 954 square kilometres, this ancient landscape is characterised by rolling hills, vast granite tors, gorgeous green valleys, and pristine rivers. Dartmoor National Park is filled with diverse landscapes, providing endless opportunities for exploration.
Things to do in Dartmoor National Park:
Dartmoor offers a range of walking trails, catering to all levels of experience. Popular hikes include the trek to Haytor, which provides stunning views over the moors, and the Dartmoor Tors, such as Sharp Tor and Great Staple Tor. The varied landscapes make it a paradise for walkers and nature lovers.
Aside from incredible nature, Dartmoor is home to numerous prehistoric sites, including Stone Circles and Cromlechs. The Hound Tor and Grimspound are notable sites where you can delve into Dartmoor's ancient history and enjoy the unique stone formations. Exploring these areas gives insight into the region's rich archaeological heritage.
Keep an eye out for the incredible wildlife roaming around the park. If you’re lucky (and quiet), you might spot Dartmoor ponies, deer, and a variety of bird species, especially around the wetlands and moors. You can also visit the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre for information on local fauna and guided wildlife tours.
Staying at: Gidleigh Wood
The simple grass pitches at Gidleigh Wood are nestled within a serene 150-acre site, predominantly covered with conifer and broadleaf trees, set in the North Teign River Valley. This peaceful spot offers scenic views over the surrounding hills and woodlands, making it a perfect escape into nature. There are only three motorhome pitches available on this cosy campsite, so make sure to book ahead! This is definitely one of our favourite campsites in Dartmoor.
Gidleigh Wood, Berrydown Road, Gidleigh, Chagford TQ13 8HR
50.67838, -3.88191
Day 3 - Plymouth
Take your time with breakfast and enjoy your final view of Dartmoor National Park before heading on to Plymouth. This twenty-minute drive will offer great views, and you should reach Plymouth in time for a lovely lunch. You can enjoy a bite to eat with a waterfront view at The Boathouse, which offers some of the best seafood in Plymouth.
Things to do in Plymouth:
Plymouth is best known as the departure location for the Pilgrims who sailed to America in 1620. Visit the historic site commemorating their exit, known as the Mayflower Steps. It’s a beautiful area to explore, with informative plaques detailing the history of the Mayflower and its significance. Nearby, you can also enjoy the waterfront views and visit the Mayflower Museum for more insights into Plymouth’s maritime history.
Explore the Royal William Yard, which was once a naval victualling yard and has since been transformed into a vibrant hub of restaurants, shops, and residential spaces. It’s a great spot to soak up the atmosphere and appreciate the city's maritime heritage, plus it provides a great backdrop for photos!
Spend the afternoon in the Hoe. This large public space offers stunning views of Plymouth Sound and the English Channel. It’s home to iconic landmarks such as the Smeaton’s Tower Lighthouse and the Royal Citadel. You can enjoy leisurely walks, relaxing picnics, and take in the breathtaking scenery, as well as learn about Plymouth's naval history through various monuments and memorials scattered throughout the area.
Staying at: Harlings Devon
This might just be the most dog-friendly campsite in Devon! Located in the Tamar Valley National Landscape, this family-run campsite offers peaceful and spacious pitches. Harlings Devon was refurbished in 2020 and now offers modern and smart facilities. Across the campsite, you’ll find firepits, Wi-Fi, and phone charging points that are available for free use. The closest big town is Tavistock, which is a fifteen-minute drive away and has supermarkets and restaurants.
Harling Farm, Yelverton, Debon PL20 7JD
50.47077, -4.18192
Day 4 - Torquay
We’ve reached the final destination, which is truly one of the best places to visit in Devon. Torquay is the heart of the English Riviera, best known for its beaches, port, and incredible seafood. It’s widely agreed that Torquay is home to some of the best things to do in Devon, so the hard part will be spending only one day here. However, if you decide to extend your trip and spend another day here, we won’t tell if you don’t…
Things to do in Torquay:
The simplest, and perhaps best, thing to do in Torquay is simply to stroll along the marina. Enjoy the scenic views of the boats and the coastline as you head along the promenade. You’ll pass plenty of cafes and restaurants along the waterfront where you can enjoy a drink as you soak up the sunshine.
Wear some sturdy shoes and head to Kents Cavern. This prehistoric limestone cave is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Britain. You can take guided tours to learn about its fascinating history, including its use by early humans and the discovery of ancient artefacts. The cave system also features stunning geological formations and offers an engaging experience for all ages.
Take to the water! You can’t leave the English Riviera without taking your feet off solid ground. You’ll find plenty of day trips around the area, as well as shorter options.
Staying at: The Hen’s Dens
Spend the final night of your road trip in Devon at The Hen’s Dens, a peaceful organic farm and apple orchard located just a mile from Stokeinteignhead. The campsite is only a mile away from Maidencombe Beach and the South West Coast Path. But you’ll also find plenty to keep you busy on-site, including firepits and barbecues for your evening meal. Guests can also use the outdoor tap and wetsuit rinsing area after a day spent at the beach.
Gabwell Hill, Stokeinteignhead, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 4QP
50.51356, -3.52161
And just like that, you’re almost at the starting point of this road trip in Devon again! These are some of the best places to visit in Devon, but there’s always more to be found in this stunning region. Devon isn’t just a summer destination, as it’s got plenty to offer all year round. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find great things to do in Devon, like hiking, eating seafood, visiting museums, and shopping.
Check out our motorhomes available for your Devon road trip below.
