South Hams, Devon
The South Hams lies mostly within the South Devon AONB, stretching over 342 square miles from the fringes of Dartmoor National Park and along the coast to Torbay and Plymouth. The area is well known for its scenic landscape and much of it is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with moors and rivers and gorgeous beaches, as well as a strong maritime history and an abundance of local produce. Spend a day exploring this spectacular part of Devon and you’ll find bustling towns to browse, like Dartmouth where you can take a boat trip along the estuary to Dartmouth Castle, and Totnes with its independent shops and a very laid back vibe.
Visit Salcombe for days on the beach, watersports and quayside dining, hop on the passenger ferry and cross the Kingsbridge estuary to while away the hours at secluded coves with golden sands and crystalline waters; Sunny Cove, Mill Bay and Hope Cove will take you back to holidays of yesteryear, to Swallows and Amazon days. At Bigbury on Sea you can explore the rockpools at low tide and stroll out across the causeway to Burgh Island; when the tide rolls back in catch the Sea Tractor back to the shore.
Apart from pootling about and discovering spectacular scenery and picturesque villages, there are several award winning attractions to visit in the South Hams. Go to Buckfast Abbey, home to a community of Benedictine monks, see the beautiful abbey church and gardens; have a family day out at Pennywell Farm where you can get close to the animals, enjoy rides and activities for the whole family, and watch shows and displays. Learn about the exotic butterflies at Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary, take a relaxing ride on a steam train through glorious countryside with the South Devon Railway.
If you like nothing better than to be out in the fresh air walking, you’ll find plenty of trails to follow, the best known being the South West Coast Path where you get the best of coast and country. Amble along the clifftops to Bolberry Down and Start Point Lighthouse for views that will astound you. A beautiful world awaits you in the South Hams; take lots of photos, make the best memories of your family holiday in Devon.
All information correct at the time of writing