Devon, with its breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines, and abundant green spaces, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid hiker, cyclist, surfer, or simply someone who enjoys immersing themselves in nature, Devon offers a wealth of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. If you’re considering a move to this idyllic county, it’s worth exploring the best places to live in Devon for those who love the great outdoors. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most desirable locations for outdoor lovers, where stunning views and an active lifestyle await.
1. Dartmoor: The Heart of Devon’s Wilderness
Dartmoor National Park is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and rugged areas in Devon, offering a unique mix of moorland, forests, and granite tors. For those who thrive on outdoor exploration, Dartmoor is a dream destination. It’s one of the best places to live in Devon for hiking, with countless trails leading through dramatic landscapes and offering sweeping views across the countryside.
The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare birds, ponies, and other native species, making it a haven for nature lovers. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of routes available, ranging from gentle rides through picturesque villages to more challenging off-road terrain. The towns of Moretonhampstead and Ashburton are particularly popular for their close proximity to Dartmoor, with a welcoming community and easy access to both the moors and nearby amenities.
For those who love the peace and solitude of the countryside, Dartmoor offers an unrivalled setting for outdoor pursuits, making it one of the best places to live in Devon.
2. Exmoor: Dramatic Coastlines and Rolling Hills
Exmoor National Park is another stunning location that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide. With its dramatic coastlines, dense woodlands, and rolling hills, Exmoor is perfect for hiking, trail running, and cycling. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Exmoor ponies and red deer, and offers a diverse range of habitats to explore.
The area is also renowned for its dark skies, making it one of the best places in Devon for stargazing. The nearby town of Dulverton is often referred to as the ‘gateway to Exmoor’ and provides an excellent base for those looking to live close to this beautiful national park. Dulverton itself is a charming town, with a strong sense of community and easy access to local amenities.
For those who love the combination of sea and countryside, Exmoor offers stunning views over the Bristol Channel, with coastal paths that provide some of the best walking routes in the country. Exmoor truly offers a perfect blend of wild landscapes and outdoor adventures, making it a top contender for the best places to live in Devon for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Ilfracombe: Coastal Adventures and Scenic Trails
Ilfracombe, located on the north coast of Devon, is a charming seaside town that’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the combination of coastal living and adventure. Known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged coastline, and beautiful beaches, Ilfracombe is an excellent spot for water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and sailing.
The South West Coast Path runs through Ilfracombe, providing access to some of the most stunning coastal walks in the region. For those who prefer to cycle, there are numerous bike trails that explore both the town’s surrounding countryside and the coastline. The nearby Tarka Trail offers a more leisurely route, ideal for family cycling trips and nature walks.
Ilfracombe is also home to a number of outdoor activities, such as fishing and rock climbing, and is within easy reach of the nearby Exmoor National Park. With its picturesque harbour, excellent outdoor opportunities, and vibrant community, Ilfracombe is certainly one of the best places to live in Devon for those who crave an active, coastal lifestyle.
4. Tavistock: A Gateway to Dartmoor’s Beauty
Tavistock, a historic market town located on the edge of Dartmoor, is a fantastic choice for outdoor lovers who want to be close to both nature and civilisation. The town itself has a lovely mix of independent shops, cafes, and local amenities, but it’s the surrounding countryside that draws many outdoor enthusiasts to this area. Tavistock is one of the best places to live in Devon for hiking and cycling, with direct access to Dartmoor’s rugged landscapes and scenic trails.
Tavistock also offers easy access to the Tamar Valley, an area of outstanding natural beauty, where you can enjoy activities such as kayaking and fishing. The nearby canal provides a great spot for walking and cycling, offering beautiful views and an easy route for families. Tavistock is well-connected to other towns in Devon, with good transport links to Plymouth and beyond.
If you’re someone who enjoys a blend of country living and outdoor adventure, Tavistock provides the perfect setting, offering a rich history, a thriving local community, and an abundance of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
5. South Hams: Tranquil Villages and Coastal Beauty
The South Hams region, located in the south of Devon, is a collection of charming villages and towns set amidst rolling hills, secluded beaches, and picturesque countryside. For outdoor enthusiasts, this area is a dream come true, offering easy access to both the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the stunning coastline.
The South Hams is ideal for those who enjoy walking and cycling, with an extensive network of footpaths and cycle routes that explore both inland and coastal areas. The South West Coast Path runs along the coastline, offering incredible views of the sea and cliffs, while inland routes pass through peaceful farmland, woodlands, and moors.
The towns of Totnes and Kingsbridge are particularly popular for their mix of natural beauty and community spirit, with plenty of outdoor activities and local events. The region also offers fantastic opportunities for water-based activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, thanks to its proximity to the coast. For families and individuals looking for a peaceful, outdoor-focused lifestyle, the South Hams is one of the best places to live in Devon.
6. Plymouth: Urban Living with Access to the Outdoors
For those who enjoy a more urban lifestyle but still want easy access to outdoor adventures, Plymouth offers the perfect balance. This bustling city is located on the south coast of Devon and boasts a wealth of outdoor opportunities, from coastal walks and cycling paths to sailing and watersports. Plymouth Sound is a haven for water lovers, with a vibrant maritime heritage and a variety of boat tours and activities on offer.
The city is also home to the scenic South West Coast Path, which provides plenty of options for walking and hiking, with stunning views of the coastline and nearby beaches. Plymouth’s waterfront and surrounding countryside offer ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, making it one of the best places to live in Devon for those seeking an active, urban lifestyle with easy access to nature.
Conclusion
Devon is undeniably one of the best counties in the UK for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of landscapes, from rugged moorlands and dramatic coastlines to tranquil villages and bustling towns. Whether you’re drawn to the wild beauty of Dartmoor, the coastal adventures of Ilfracombe, or the peaceful countryside of Tavistock, Devon provides an abundance of outdoor pursuits to satisfy all kinds of adventurers.
Each of the locations mentioned in this guide offers its own unique blend of nature, community, and outdoor activities, ensuring that Devon remains one of the most desirable counties for those who love the great outdoors. So, whether you’re planning to hike, cycle, surf, or simply explore, Devon is the perfect place to call home.
