Things to Do in Devon This Summer: Family Days Out and Events to Enjoy

Guest Blog Post - Devon’s Top Attractions

Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore Devon, and this year Devon’s Top Attractions are bringing together an incredible programme of family days out, events and activities to enjoy throughout the school holidays.

From thrilling rides and animal encounters to outdoor adventures, beaches, heritage attractions, theatre, crafts and hands-on experiences, there’s something happening across Devon for all ages. Whether you’re enjoying a staycation close to home or visiting the county for your summer holiday, families are spoilt for choice with fantastic days out from coast to countryside.

Families can also make their money go further this summer thanks to the Government’s British Summer Savings initiative. Participating attractions are offering discounted admission and savings on children’s meals until 1^st September, helping families enjoy even more adventures for less. Offers are available at participating attractions only, so be sure to check individual attraction websites before visiting.

Summer adventures in South Devon

There are plenty of exciting things to discover across South Devon this summer, from unforgettable experiences and wildlife encounters to outdoor adventures.

At Woodlands Family Theme Park, families can enjoy a day full of rides, attractions, animals and entertainment, with the added excitement of Titan the Robot visiting on 4, 11, 18 and 25 August. Combining comedy, street theatre, music and incredible special effects, Titan’s interactive performances are guaranteed to amaze visitors of all ages. Visitors can also save up to 30% by booking main season tickets online.

Set within a spectacular ancient valley, Becky Falls offers over 50 acres of woodland, streams and wildlife to explore. Discover three different walking trails, visit the small zoo and exotics house, enjoy keeper talks and take part in the children’s nature trail, where every child wins a prize. Afterwards, relax in the woodland café or browse the gift shop.

At Canonteign Falls, families can enjoy summer holiday fun until 6^th September. Discover the spectacular Lady Exmouth Falls, one of England’s highest single-drop waterfalls, and explore beautiful woodland trails. Children can take part in the Find the Hedgehogs Trail, while selected dates also feature Alpaca Days and have-a-go archery.

For a classic seaside day out, Blackpool Sands offers the perfect summer escape. Hire a paddleboard or kayak and explore the beautiful shoreline, relax in the beachfront sauna, browse the beach shop or enjoy delicious food and stunning views from the café.

Family favourites and unique experiences

There’s no shortage of memorable attractions to explore this summer.

At Paignton Zoo, visitors can discover more than 2,000 animals and countless amazing plants across 80 acres of beautiful grounds. From fascinating wildlife encounters to learning about conservation, it’s an inspiring day out for the whole family.

Pennywell Farm is celebrating summer with Bubble & Bop until 2 September. Alongside all the much-loved farmyard activities, families can enjoy music in the orchard, meet Pippa Pig the Pennywell mascot, collect event stickers, enter the Bubble & Bop giveaway and enjoy plenty of bubbly fun.

Over at Babbacombe Model Village, visitors can get up close to incredible creatures during the Fangs N Feathers reptile handling sessions on selected summer holiday dates. Meet tortoises, lizards, geckos, snakes and more, before experiencing thousands of miniature lights and special effects during the evening illuminations.

Discover Devon’s history and heritage

Step back in time this summer with some of Devon’s fascinating heritage attractions.

Experience Victorian life at Bygones in Torquay, where you can see, smell and hear over 100 years of history brought to life. Explore recreated Victorian streets, discover wartime Britain, admire the 27-ton steam train and see the impressive 28-foot model railway.

Take a nostalgic journey through the Devon countryside with South Devon Railway. Alongside steam train journeys, visitors can enjoy special experiences including Murder Mystery events on 17 and 24 July, Sunday lunches aboard the train, ploughman’s lunches in the vintage 1950s Restaurant Car and afternoon teas.

Creative summer days out

If you’re looking for something creative, House of Marbles has plenty to discover this summer. Children can enjoy arts and crafts activities including a brass rubbing trail, while August brings glass workshops where visitors can create their own unique glass pieces. The attraction is also hosting a colourful mosaic exhibition in collaboration with South West Mosaic Arts until 1 December.

There’s also the chance to get creative at The Box, Plymouth, where families can take part in free Summer of Expression activities inspired by Dartmoor, giant bugs, gelli-plate printing and lighthouses.

Events to enjoy across Devon

Alongside fantastic attractions, Devon’s Top Attractions members are hosting a wide range of special summer events.

Buckfast Abbey’s Summer Fair returns from 6–8 August, offering three days of artisan crafts, unique gifts, delicious food and drink and family-friendly activities in a beautiful setting.

For a day out on the water, Stuart Line Cruises offers a busy summer timetable including Jurassic Coast cruises, River Exe cruises, day trips to Torquay and Brixham, cream tea cruises and evening sailings.

Families can also explore the underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, where Ocean Discovery Rangers will be sharing fascinating facts through talks and shows throughout the summer. Visitors can also enjoy boat trips, snorkel safaris and rockpool safaris with the Ocean Conservation Trust on selected dates.

Plan your Devon summer adventure

With so many attractions, events and experiences taking place throughout the summer holidays, there has never been a better time to explore Devon. From exciting theme parks and incredible wildlife to beautiful gardens, heritage attractions and unforgettable outdoor adventures, there are days out to suit every family.