Welcome to Devon
A county of coastlines, countryside and two National Parks, Devon should be high on any holidayer's hitlist.
Popular with families and slightly easier to access than Cornwall, Devon is ideal for those looking for a slower pace of life. With hostels spanning the county, YHA are well placed to offer ideal accommodation for your stay, whether you wish to explore the Jurassic coastline, the wilds of Dartmoor or the quaint towns and small cities which form the hub of the area.
YHA Hostels in Devon
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Things to do in Devon
Five Free Things To Do in Devon
Royal Albert Memorial Museum
This free-admission museum in Exeter is a great day out for the family, with collections of local archaeological discoveries, costume and textiles, fine art and much more.
Woolacombe Beach
One of the best British beaches, this three-mile stretch of golden sands is popular with surfers and sun-seekers alike.
Croyde Gem, Rock and Shell Museum
A must for beach-combers and anyone with an interest in shiny things! As if you needed another reason to visit Croyde, this is a great addition to a day out.
The Donkey Sanctuary
A wonderful chance for kids to get closer to animals and support a worthy cause - this farm works for the welfare of donkeys around the world.
House of Marbles
A working glass and games factory in a historic pottery, this is a great day out for all ages. Tour the games museum, see how marbles are made and experience "Snookie", the biggest marble run in the UK!
There's nowhere in the world quite like Devon
Devon is known for its rolling hills, rustic villages and relaxed pace of life. The Jurassic Coast to the south is a World Heritage Site in itself, and filled with charming fishing towns and stunning scenery. Devon's two cities, Plymouth and Exeter, each have their own distinctive characters and are fantastic destinations for a city break with a difference.
With no less than five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the rugged wilderness of Dartmoor to explore and a gateway to the English Riviera in the form of Torbay, it's no wonder so many people see Devon as the perfect place to get away from it all.
Adventure Okehampton
Choose from 18 fantastic group activities from gorge-scrambling, archery, pony-trekking, mountain boarding, mountain biking and a full range of watersports. Other activities including cycle hire
Brendon Manor Stables
Explore Exmoor on horseback - ride across open countryside, through valleys and rivers including the famous Lorna Doone Valley. Visit the Stable's website
Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Enjoy a fun day out for all the family at one of Devon's most popular attractions!
Exmoor National Park
Stunning landscapes, wilderness and tranquillity - enjoy Exmoor on foot, horseback or bike to appreciate this beautiful area, especially the Valley Of Rocks on the South-West Coastal Path and the Tark
Exmoor Pony Centre
The centre aims to promote and conserve the Exmoor pony. Meet the resident ponies or take to the saddle for a taster session. Visit the Centre's website
Exmoor Safari
Explore Exmoor by Land Rover using seldom used tracks and ancient byeways - look for the elusive deer and famous Exmoor ponies. Visit the Exmoor Safari website
Hartland Abbey and Gardens
Hartland Abbey is the family home of the Stucley family. Wander around the beautiful gardens which lead down to a rocky cove. Visit the Hartland Abbey website for full details.
Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Enjoy stunning views of the coastline as you glide up the track from Lynmouth at the foot of the cliffs to Lynton 500ft above. Opened in 1890, the famous Lynton and Lynmouth funicular Cliff Rail
Morwellham Quay
This reconstructed port was once the busiest port west of Exeter and the largest copper port in Queen Victoria’s empire. Visit the website
National Marine Aquarium
Journey through the oceans of the world from the local shoreline to the deep Atlantic. Visit the NMA website
New Carlton Cinema
See all the latest films in real comfort! Based in the old market hall, with a licensed screen, leather settees and individual chairs. Visit the cinema website
North Devon Surf School
Anyone can learn to surf at one of the top surfing schools in the UK, no matter what your walk of life, ability or fitness level.
View some of our popular Devon blog posts
Let’s go fly a kite: YHA Beer
Along with a camera and a coffee pot there’s one more thing I try not to forget when packing for a trip: our kite. To untangle its colourful tail streamers and throw it straight up into the gale blowing off the sea ...
Things to do in South Devon this summer
Glorious sunshine? Check. The prettiest fishing boats you can find? Check. The UK’s longest National Trail minutes away? Obviously. For a happy marriage of countryside and coast...
Hidden gems in England
Many YHA properties have incredible access to some of the country’s best-hidden gems. Here’s a guide to some of our tucked-away hostels in spectacular settings that have...