Devon

The very best places to stay in Devon

Cream then jam or jam then cream on your scone? That’s the question that reveals where you’re from in the southwest (cream then jam for Devonians, FYI). Home to 2 separate coastlines, Devon is better known for its beautiful long sandy beaches. Puttsborough and Saunton Sands are idyllic for families; Croyde’s swells make it a hotspot for surfers. Also big draws are the pretty harbour towns of Dartmouth and Brixham, and the traffic-free Tarka Trail for long, meandering cycle rides. But our favourite thing about Devon is its National Parks. Dartmoor, a vast, craggy moorland is home to granite tors, natural swimming holes and wild ponies. Exmoor is all towering sea cliffs, deep valleys, heather-clad hills and incredible night skies.

Kip tips:
• Architecture: look out for historic cobb and thatched cottages (Broadhemsbury is the most quintessential English village you could imagine) and the ancient 14thC longhouses, once used to house people and livestock in a single building.
• Must-visit: The idyllic village of Covelly, which tumbles down a cliff edge to a pretty harbour. Traffic free, donkeys once pulled carts up its vertiginous hills, and it has a rich smuggler’s history.
• With kids: Pennywell Farm is brilliant, with quirky activities from ferret racing and tractor rides to miniature pigs, a cuddle corner, and a little steam train.
• Foodie treat: Glebe House in Devon is an English agrotourismo, with an amazing farm-to-table restaurant. Stay on-site at this dreamy cabin for 2.
• Best activity: learn to surf. Croyde is the perfect place: base yourselves at this beachside cabin with a hot tub.
• Secret Kip tip: have a pint at the Ferry Boat Inn, on the River Dart across from beautiful Dittisham. Ring the bell on the quayside to summon a little ferry that zips you across the water!

Why book a Devon holiday with Kip Hideaways?
We endlessly research and curate the very best places to stay across the UK: all gorgeous and great value. Beautiful, unique style is a must for us but it’s the thoughtful detail and owners who really care that make our hideaways so special. Our Devon hideaways include family-friendly cottages in the countryside, beach houses with hot tubs, secluded cabins for digital detox, dog-friendly places, big houses for groups, even a romantic houseboat.