Summer is coming, hooorayyyy! But if you’re eyeing up a romantic break to foreign shores you’ll actually find some epic destinations right here in the UK. And we’re talking specifically about Devon.
Yes, Devon is blessed with an abundance of incredibly romantic locations. So whether you’re looking for a saucy staycation or a kiss-me-quick beach break, or even a homely honeymoon, we’ve put together a list of some of the most romantic places in Devon for a holiday.
In no particular order, we’ve picked these romantic Devon destinations based on a mixture of landscape, things to do and the take-your-breath-away vibes that make a place romantic.
1. Salcombe
This lovely harbour town is a favourite with the yachting crowd, and it’s estuary side location makes it a great spot for a romantic getaway too.
Our favourite spot is the Salcombe Harbour Hotel, which we greatly enjoyed when we stayed (although this is a few years ago now). The views across the harbour are pretty much unbeatable and the hotel itself is perfectly located a short walk from town.
Salcombe offers some excellent boutique shopping, cosy pubs and restaurants, plenty of coastal walks and beaches a short hop from the town. If you’re looking for a honeymoon in Devon, or just a nice place to relax with your loved one, Salcombe is a solid choice. Easily one of the most romantic places in Devon…
Take a look at romantic cottages to rent in Salcombe.
2. Bigbury/Burgh Island
An iconic Devon destination, and definitely one for the romantic amongst you. Burgh Island sits just off shore and can be reached on foot at low tide, or by sea tractor when the tide is in. Great fun! The island itself offers fun strolls, bird spotting (and sometimes seal spotting too) and you can bask on the beach or hire a paddle board if you want to make a splash. Oh and the Pilchard Pub on Burgh island is a proper Devon experience too…
The art deco Burgh Island Hotel is without a doubt one of the most romantic locations in Devon, bar none. With a rich history (including famous residents Agatha Christie, Winston Churchill and The Beatles), the island is a romantic getaway spot year round. If you’re looking for a Devon honeymoon, definitely take a look at Burgh Island.
3. Widecombe-in-the-Moor
If you’re looking for wild and windswept, Widecombe is calling you. This village in the heart of Dartmoor is the perfect base for ramblers and those just looking to get away from the rat race. Let’s be honest, you don’t come to Widecombe-in-the-Moor for action and excitement, but that’s why it’s the perfect romantic getaway.
There are two pubs and a couple of cafes, a great selection of country walks and that’s pretty much it. But if you’re looking for an excuse to spend time with your loved ones, and enjoy their company then taking your foot off the pedal in Widecombe might be just what the doctor ordered.
For accommodation , there are plenty of excellent options for farm stays on Sykes Cottages, the Inns, plus a campsite.
4. Seaton
A classic British seaside town, Seaton is perfect for those looking for a fun coastal getaway without the trappings of a bigger tourist town like Torquay. The beach is obviously one of the main attractions, but there is also plenty to keep you amused for a long romantic stay.
Ride the tram, take a boat trip, head to the dinosaur museum (this is the Jurassic Coast after all) and if you’re thinking of letting all hang out, head to the naturist beach too. What more do you need on a romantic getaway in Devon?
The town also has plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants to choose from. For accomodation, the hotel choice is pretty limited, so we recommend searching Vrbo or Airbnb for the best options.
5. Hartland
The Hartland peninsula is the stuff of Devon legend. Rugged coastlines, quaint villages and romantic views around every corner. The village of Hartland itself makes a great base to explore, and has a choice of great pubs to snuggle into of an evening. In fact, if you’re looking for a romantic cottage in Devon, you’ll definitely find a good choice in the Hartland area.
Nearby Clovelly is also a gorgeous little cliffside village, and there are smaller hamlets and villages scattered around the nearby region with cosy stays to choose from. Great for fans of bracing coastal walks. Beach fans will also find plenty of coves to discover and take a refreshing dip.
6. Lynton/Lynmouth
Staying on the rugged north Devon coast, the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth are a popular tourist spot, with one at the foot of the cliff (Lynmouth) and the other sitting on top of the hill (Lynton). You can ferry between the two with the funicular railway which runs up the world’s steepest railway incline, apparently.
As a romantic spot in Devon, these two villages offer boutique shopping, a good choice of dining and things to do, as well as a decent selection of hotels and boutique B&Bs. Our favourite (and probably the most romantic) is Highcliffe House which offers stunning panoramic views and gorgeous rooms too.
We think Lynton and Lynmouth are another great choice for a Devon honeymoon, or just a relaxed weekend with some stunning views.
7. Totnes
Yes, it might be the most ‘alternative’ village in the UK (OK there might be some challenges) but Totnes gets the romantic Devon destination nod thanks to it’s great choice of things to do. If you’re looking for a relatively action packed weekend, and you’re coming by public transport, then Totnes is a fantastic option. Why?
The town itself is full of great places to eat and drink, there’s the castle, the steam railway, river walks and there is even a pretty vibrant nightlife (relative to everywhere else on this list). So if you’re looking for one of the best places to stay in Devon for couples, a short hop from London or Bristol, Totnes is an easy choice.
In terms of accommodation, you’re mostly limited to local inns and Airbnbs. As always, Sykes Cottages also have some good options for romantic getaways.
8. Brixham
If you’re thinking of Torbay for a romantic Devon getaway, it has to be Brixham. The village at the far end of the bay is much more bougie than neighbouring Paignton and Torquay, which are fine but a bit classic British seaside vibes. Brixham is more of an authentic fishing town which also happens to have some lovely walks, places to eat and drink and things to do.
Enjoy the harbour and walk along the breakwater, or head to the lighthouse at Berry head. Beach fans can also lay down their towels at a number of spots, from Broadsands beach to St Mary’s Bay.
The boutique Quayside Hotel is probably the best place to stay in town, especially if you’re looking for a honeymoon hotel in Devon. If you’re looking for a unique boutique or cottage check out Vrbo for some great local B&Bs.
Some suggestions for a romantic holiday in Devon
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list of the most romantic places in Devon for a holiday. We’ll also add in some notable other options such as:
- Okehampton
- Tavistock
- Teignmouth
- Dartmouth
- Barnstable
Finding a nice place to stay is probably what will make your stay in Devon romantic. The choice of quality hotels can be limited in many rural places, so it’s often a choice between Airbnb, Vrbo or Sykes Cottages.
If you think we’ve missed anywhere off our list, let us know in the comments!
