paignton zoo
September 12, 2025

Top Family-Friendly Activities Near Brixham & Dartmouth – A Kid’s Guide from the Nethway Farm Girls!

Hey kids! We’re Jessica and Amelia; and are lucky to call Nethway Farm our home, and we’re here to let you in on all the best things to do while you’re on holiday. Once you know, you can tell your parents exactly where they should take you first (because let’s be honest, we know where the real fun is!).

  1. Paignton Zoo – Meet the Wild Side!

Lions and tigers and… red pandas?! Oh yes! Paignton Zoo is like stepping into a jungle, with over 2,500 animals to spot. There’s even a crocodile swamp (don’t drop your ice cream in there!) and an awesome play area for when you need to run wild.

  1. Splashdown Quaywest – Waterpark Fun!

If the sun’s shining (or even if it’s not!), head to Splashdown Quaywest in Paignton. It’s the UK’s biggest outdoor waterpark! From Pirate play area for the under. 12’s to the main water park for those over 1m in height; Super-fast flumes, a lazy river, and the epic Devil’s Drop slide – if you dare! Grown-ups can chill while you make a splash.

  1. Dartmouth Steam Railway – All Aboard!

Trains are cool, but steam trains are even cooler! Hop on at Paignton or Kingswear and ride through the countryside and along the coast. Wave at the boats in Dartmouth, grab a pasty, and then jump aboard for the return journey —proper old-school fun!

  1. Brixham Pirate Experience – Arrr You Ready?

Brixham is full of pirates, and you can become one too! Check out the life-size pirate ship, climb aboard, and learn how to sword fight (okay, maybe not real swords). Don’t forget to say “Arrr!” a lot!!

  1. Woodlands Family Theme Park – Epic Adventures!

This is a BIG one! Woodlands has everything—huge indoor soft play, water rides, rollercoasters, and even a zoo. Basically, it’s an entire day of non-stop fun (so make sure the grown-ups bring snacks).

  1. Greenway House & Gardens – A Secret Hideout

Okay, so this is Agatha Christie’s old house, but it’s also great for exploring! There are hidden gardens, a boat ride, and plenty of places to run around. Plus, if you like a good mystery, it’s extra cool.

  1. Crabbing – Grab Your Line!

This is a must-do! Buy a crabbing line, some bait (bacon works best!), and see how many crabs you can catch off the quayside. Just remember to let them go after—otherwise, you might end up with a very snappy suitcase! Crabbing can be done around the harbour in Brixham and Dartmouth.  However the best spot, in our opinion, for crabbing is Stoke Gabriel, your parents will love it too because there’s no steep drop off the harbour wall and there is a great cafe too!

  1. Beaches & Rock Pools – Sandcastle Time!

Goodrington Sands, Broadsands, are both awesome for paddling, swimming, and building the best sandcastles ever. Don’t forget a bucket and spade… or the ice cream money!

  1. Berry Head Nature Reserve – Clifftop Adventures!

High up on the cliffs, this place is great for a family walk (don’t worry, it’s easy). Look out for seals, dolphins, the occasional whale and lots of birds. There’s even a cool café at the top for refuelling after all that exploring.

  1. Pennywell Farm – Meet the Mini Pigs!

If you love animals (and who doesn’t?), Pennywell Farm is so much fun. You can cuddle tiny piglets, bottle-feed lambs, and even go on a mini tractor ride. It’s like a giant petting zoo! We always ask our Parents to take us in the holidays. We are limited to once a year!!

So, What Are We Waiting For?

There’s loads to do near Nethway Farm Holiday Cottages, so get your shoes on, pack some snacks, and let’s go on an adventure! Just remember—kids get the final say on what we do first!

Which adventure are you most excited about? Do let us know!

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