Enjoy the burst of fresh air as Devon in Spring come out of hibernation
Fresh spring air and the salty seaside landscape make Devon one of the most attractive places for springtime. With flowers just starting to bud and blossom, it’s time to get out and about to enjoy what Devon has to offer.
Devon National Parks
If you love national parks, Devon happens to be full of them. Exmoor National Park hosts spring walks through the dense wooded areas, taking time to let visitors enjoy the true beauty of nature. There are also stargazing expeditions, mountain biking, horse rides and Easter activities for the kids. Dartmoor National Park will be hosting its own walks and cycling events, along with climbing, watersports and fishing.
Historical Sites in Devon
If you’re more into history and architecture, Exeter has a beautiful 11th century cathedral, formerly known as the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, and it has long been a pillar of the faith community. Visitors can quietly walk through the halls, gazing at the vaulted ceilings and fine art work adorning its walls and windows. Devon is also home to the ruins of the famous Rougemont Castle, the Mayflower Steps, and the Royal Citadel.
Devon Festivals
Spring brings out the social butterflies to festivals, where visitors can meet new friends and make some interesting acquaintances. Festivals have been a long-time spring tradition in North Devon, and there are plenty to choose from. The Devon County Show is held May 19-21, 2016, and those attending will have access to a flurry of activities including music at the bandstand, petting zoos, the BBC Exhibition, the Crafts & Gardens Pavillion and more.
Fans of folk music will have a grand time at Exefest, Exeter’s one and only folk music festival. The 2015 Exefest was cancelled due to a lack of funding, but they’re back up and running for 2016 with a new lineup of artists for concertgoers to enjoy. The Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink is a foodie’s heaven on Earth. Festival events are April 21-24 and center around the rich food culture, gathering local producers and food establishments together to celebrate the love of food.
Spring Gardens to visit in Devon
Take in the view of fresh flora and fauna in Devon’s lush spring gardens. Devon’s gardens in particular have caught the attention of wildlife enthusiasts due in large part to the fields of daffodils found there. Spots of yellow have begun to pop up everywhere, covering the countryside in a swath of bursting blooms.
For a peaceful afternoon with the family further afield, consider the wooded paths of Trengwainton, Cornwall. Ten wall gardens come together to form cozy areas where families can sit and have a picnic. The brightly-colored magnolias make a relaxing backdrop to slow walks through the gardens, visitors will have a wonderful afternoon tea session in the Trengwainton Tea Room. Exotic plants and quiet ponds can also be found amongst the spring gardens of Drogo, Knightshayes and Saltram.
Devon Beach Adventures
Sports activities are an exciting way to shake away the winter blues. Devon has a long sprawl of coastline, complete with rolling waves for surfing, as well as more quiet spots for a relaxing sailing trip. When you’re done visiting the national parks, walking trails and festivals, take a load off and get a tan at the local beach. Tourists flock to Woolacombe beach (recently voted the top beach in Europe by TripAdvisor) to take in the spectacular view of their bold blue waters and the flurry of aquatic activity.
Golfing in Devon
If you fancy teeing off next to the sea, then Saunton or Ilfracombe are your courses of choice! Ilfracombe Golf Course is a fantastic place to visit this spring, here at the Carlton Hotel we’ve been working on some all-inclusive Golfing deals to help make your trip fun and affordable.
What’s your favourite springtime activity?