Six of the prettiest towns and villages in Devon

Appledore

This former fishing village on the North Devon coast is all winding streets, pastel-painted cottages and estuary views. It has a peaceful, slightly timeless feel, but also a creative buzz, with pottery studios, bookshops, and galleries tucked into old sailor’s homes. 

Grab fish and chips from Sylvester’s to eat by the quay, book a boat trip across to Instow, or browse John’s of Appledore for hampers, deli treats and excellent coffee. The Appledore Book Festival each autumn is a big draw too. 

Stay at: The Royal George, a foodie and friendly reinvigorated old pub, with floor to ceiling estuary views. Bring the dog and hit the coastal path. 

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Torquay

There’s more to Torquay than beach towels and buckets. This classic English Riviera town is having a bit of a revival, with a ton of impressive restaurants, beachy boutiques and restored Victorian villas. Plus, the coastline here is simply magnificent. 

Wander along the palm-lined promenade and take a dip at Meadfoot Beach. Head to The Elephant for Michelin-starred seafood, or Amici for hand-stretched pizza and classic pasta dishes. The Agatha Christie Mile makes a great afternoon stroll for literary fans. The crime queen was born here, and her influence is everywhere. 

Stay at: Cary Arms and Spa, a seaside inn on Babbacombe Bay with views of sea and sky, rooms to feel happy in, a spa and homely, hearty dining. 

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Branscombe

Tucked between cliffs on the Jurassic Coast, Branscombe is one of the prettiest villages in East Devon. It’s got thatched cottages, winding lanes and a beach at the bottom of it all. It’s a walker’s paradise, with stunning sections of the South West Coast Path leading to Beer in one direction and Sidmouth in the other. 

Fuel up with crab sandwiches at The Sea Shanty Beach Café, then explore the old forge and the working watermill. The beach is usually peaceful even in summer, and the sunsets can be incredible. 

Stay at: The Masons Arms, a 14th century pub close to the beach. Bedrooms come in all shapes and sizes, some above the bar, others in cottages and there are three suites with private terraces and views across the valley. 

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Yelverton

Right on the western edge of Dartmoor, Yelverton is the sort of place that feels close to everything and yet perfectly peaceful. You’re within easy reach of Tavistock, Princetown, and even Plymouth, but surrounded by green valleys, moorland tors and leafy cycle routes. 

It’s a perfect base for walkers and cyclists, especially along the Drake’s Trail, which passes through woodland and over viaducts en route to the coast. For food, pop into The Larder Yelverton for picnic supplies or book a table at The Leaping Salmon for something special. 

Stay at: South Hooe Count House, a peaceful cottage perched above the Tamar, with views over the river and steep steps that lead to the shore and a little jetty. 

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Totnes

Totnes is Devon’s bohemian heart. It’s a colourful, independent-minded town with ethical cafés, zero-waste shops and a thriving market scene.  

Spend your morning browsing vintage clothes and local crafts at the market before heading to The Bull Inn, an organic pub with serious food credentials. Wander down to the riverside or take a kayak out along the Dart for a peaceful paddle past herons and kingfishers. 

Stay at: North Barn, Whitestone Farm, with glass-and-timber doors that bathe you with light, and impressive views across the River Dart. Sublime year round, it’s one of our all-time favourites.  

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Ilfracombe

Once a classic Victorian seaside resort, Ilfracombe has been quietly reinventing itself with a new artistic energy and prominent foodie scene. There’s galleries and a clutch of great places to eat, including The Olive Room, which earned a Michelin star with its spectacular seafood dishes. Take Thyme is another great seafood spot, just 50 yards from the dramatic harbour. 

Walk the coast path to Lee Bay for hidden coves or simply sit by the harbour and admire Verity, Damien Hirst’s striking sculpture looking out to sea. The nearby Tunnels Beaches are also a hidden gem for swimming and sunset views. 

Stay at: The Old Vicarage, a large Victorian house perfect for a group get together and just ten minutes from sandy Woolacombe.  

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