Early Spring Highlights in South Devon
20 February 2015
With days lengthening and new flowers peering through the hedgerows, things are already feeling brighter here in Devon. In many ways, this is also a great time to visit. We’re still well outside peak season, making roads clearer and many attractions more peaceful, while at the same time prices tend to stay lower.
Where are the best days out in Devon at this time of year? There are plenty of options available. Many of our heritage sites and visitors centres open their doors again, while those who enjoy sporting days out and outdoor pursuits are also well catered for. Here are a few of the best spring attractions and events Devon has to offer for 2015:
Arts, crafts and eats:
A lively place to treat the senses at any time of year, Dartington Cider Press Centre (TQ9 6TQ) is always worth a visit. Right on the edge of Totnes, this has always been a hotbed of creative talent, with beautiful and unique ceramics, glass and artisan products by the score. It also has a decent toy shop and play area to keep the little ones happy, along with some cracking locally sourced food and drink. See the site for more info and current events: www.dartington.org/shops
Laugh your socks off:
With various acts including BBC Live at the Apollo star Andrew Lawrence, March looks set to be a month of laughter in Devon with the arrival of the Dartmouth Comedy Festival (Tues March 3rd onwards). Celebrating its ninth year, this is your chance to see both established stars and exciting new talent up close and in person. More details from the Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth (http://theflavel.org.uk)
Satisfy your inner magpie:
As the sun comes out and spring cleaning begins in earnest, it can be an especially good time to indulge the collector within. There are some great little Devon towns for lovers of antiques and collectibles (Totnes, with it’s market and curiosity stores is always worth a look), or you could head to Newton Abbot Racecourse for one of their special Antiques Fairs held in both March and May: http://www.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on/antiques-fairs-2015-newton-abbot-racecourse-p1494323
Mothering Sunday weekend:
Why not treat your Mum to a weekend away in our cottages? We are giving all our Mums Spring flowers to celebrate. There are special activities at Pennywell Farm on March 15th for all Mothers or you could take her for a special Mother’s Day lunch at NT Greenway (booking essential)
Smuggle yourselves away:
There are many great walks in south Devon, but one novel option is to try the Smuggler’s Tunnel at Shaldon. Even the most unenthusiastic of kids will enjoy this little journey into the underground, from which you then emerge onto the pretty Ness Cove. You could even smuggle a picnic with you. A good starting point would be the Shaldon Tourism Centre, very close to the tunnel (TQ14 0HP, 01626 873723)
Great value self-catering breaks in Devon:
Why not make the most of our off peak season prices to get away from it? Our cosy cottages are an ideal base to enjoy all that South Devon has to offer this spring. Book early to claim your own home from home this spring: https://secure-location.co.uk/booking-manager-pro/long_barn/