family days out in Devon
- family-friendly
- holidays
- ownership
- places to visit
Devon is one of the best family holiday destinations in the UK and it is easy to see why.
From the places to stay, the coast and countryside to explore and the incredible adventure filled attractions, you’ll find something for every age and interest during your time here. So, whether you’re wanting to tire the kids out with a fun filled day at a theme park or have an animal lover and fancy seeing some up close, we have put together a handy list to help plan your next trip. These family-friendly attractions are perfect for kids, adults and everyone in between.
Haldon Forest Park
King’s Rd, Exeter, EX6 7XR
Haldon Forest Park is just a short drive away from Exeter and makes a great day out for all ages. With plenty of walking and cycling trails ranging from 2.5km to 6km and plenty to see and do along the way from spotting rare butterflies to heading over to the bird of prey viewpoint or even completing the stick man activity trail. There is also play areas, orienteering courses, Go Ape courses and plenty of picnic areas along with The Ridge Café serving up plenty of freshly prepared food and drinks.
The Milky Way Adventure Park
The Milky Way Adventure Park, Bideford, EX39 5RY
Perfect all year round, The Milky Way Adventure Park has endless fun for everyone to enjoy indoors and outdoors. From bird of prey displays and racing on the dodgems to the sliding around the adventure play area to testing your skills on the mini golf course. If you are a family with children of various ages you will be sure to find plenty for everyone to enjoy. There are also seasonal events throughout the year which are worth keeping an eye out for.
National Marine Aquarium
Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth, PL4 0LF
Located on the waterfront in Plymouth, The National Marine Aquarium is the largest of its kind in the UK. Enjoy getting up close to all sorts of different sea creatures like sharks and stingrays to octopuses and clownfish. Each area also has regular talks and feeding sessions where you can learn more about the sea creatures from the professionals. As well as hands-on learning zones and an Atlantic Ocean zone with the UK’s largest tank holding 2.5 million litres of water along with homing everything from tiny Angelfish to huge Sand Tiger Sharks.
The BIG Sheep
Abbotsham Rd, Abbotsham, Bideford, EX39 5AP
If you are looking for somewhere that has a good range of things to enjoy then The BIG Sheep in Bideford will be perfect. There is a mix of farm animals, rides and live shows. Meet plenty of animals like lambs and piglets, enjoy the indoor and outdoor rides, including Devon’s largest rollercoaster and the huge indoor soft play. There is also plenty of events and festivals on throughout the year and adults can enjoy The Brewery, Gin Distillery and farm shop on site too.
The Donkey Sanctuary
Slade House Farm, Weston, Sidmouth, EX10 0NU
The Donkey Sanctuary is a free to visit award-winning attraction in Devon. The sanctuary is home to hundreds of rescued donkeys and visitors are able to meet them and wander around the walking trails whilst learning about each donkey. As well as the donkeys there is also a play area, a discovery centre and a café serving local treats. If you are looking for something that is a little bit more low cost but feels like more than just going for a walk then this is a great option whilst you’re in Devon.
Canonteign Falls
Exeter, EX6 7RH
Known for being the highest waterfall in the South West, Canonteign Falls is 2 sets of waterfalls on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. It is the highest manmade waterfall and an amazing sight to see if you are in the area. It is easy to spend the whole day here with scenic walking trails, a woodland playground, a fairytale garden and plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. At the waterfalls you will also find the Canonteign Kitchen serving a great selection of food and drink along with a Farm Shop.
Watermouth Family Theme Park & Castle
A399, Ilfracombe, EX34 9SL
Watermouth Family Theme Park & Castle is located near Ilfracombe and is a country house that was built in the 19th century to resemble a castle. It offers plenty of fun for the whole family to enjoy and is one of Devon’s top attractions. Enjoy racing down the toboggan run, splashing through the big river ride, trying to make your way out of a hedge maze or just enjoying the impressive play area full of castles, huts, bridges and slides. They are also a dog friendly attraction so the whole family can come on the adventure.