Things to see and do
Great Days Out in South Devon
South Devon is seldom short on great things to see and do. Visitors can choose between everything from major wildlife and family attractions, to classic heritage sites and places of outstanding natural beauty. There are some wonderful small towns to get your art and culture fix; but equally, you could venture onto the craggy heights of Dartmoor, take a vintage steam train journey or attend one of our fantastic annual festivals and events. We hope this section of the site provides some handy starting points:
Prehistoric Caves
Kents Cavern
Conveniently located 10 minutes from the hotel, Kents Cavern, is a UNESCO site and Britain's oldest known prehistoric home, used by humankind for thousands of years. Neanderthals and the very first Britons used the caves and today, award-winning guided tour operate every day for you to discover the natural beauty and archaeological importance of this remarkable heritage site. We recommend guests pre-book, as this attraction is very popular all year round. You can do a wonderful circular coastal walk from the caves, along sections of the South West Coast Path, taking in Anstey’s Cove, Agatha Christie’s favourite Torquay beach, and Meadfoot, where Charles Darwin had a home.
Natural beauty
Dartmoor Hiking
Dartmoor National Park is the moorland at the heart of Devon. Dartmoor ponies roam its craggy landscape, defined by forests, rivers, wetlands and tors. Trails wind through valleys with Neolithic tombs, Bronze Age stone circles and abandoned medieval farmhouses. The area is dotted with villages, including Princetown, home to Dartmoor Prison used during the Napoleonic Wars.
Explore Dartmoor with these hiking routes suggested by 10Adventures.com
Travel Back in time
Torquay Museum
From special seasonal talks and exhibitions to its permanent collection, our local museum is well worth a browse for all ages.
Inspired by Agatha Christie
Torre Abbey & Gardens
For art and history lovers, this site is a veritable treasure trove. The elegant gardens are perfect for a stroll, while the museum and art collection include everything from Tudor curiosities to original work by William Blake.
Take a walk or get crafty
Cockington Village
With its lovely thatched cottages and heritage buildings, Cockington is a lovely old fashioned Devon village, complete with its own art and craft centre.
It's Showtime
Princess Theatre
From comedy, pantomine and variety shows, through to modern drama and top tribute acts, The Princess is one of Devon's best-loved traditional theatres.
one of Britain’s top zoos
Paignton Zoo
Hugely popular with locals and tourists alike, this is quite simply the best zoo in Devon and Cornwall. Not only is the collection itself varied and significant, the zoo also hosts lively events and special guest experiences, whether you want to feed the animals or buy a loved one a unique behind-the-scenes day out.
Great Western tradition
Dartmouth Steam Railway
Young and old railway fans will love this nostalgic Devon attraction. Discover beautifully restored vintage locomotives and enjoy glorious views.
