Things to do on holiday in Devon this winter 2022/23

Why wait for the summer to book your next holiday? The winter is a brilliant time to get away from it all and recharge those run down batteries. In this post we’re sharing our top recommendations for things to do on holiday in Devon this winter. There’s plenty to do whether you are visiting with children, as a couple or want to indulge in some truly unique Devon experiences.

Of course, we’d love it if you’d come at stay with us at Nethway Farm Holiday Cottages here in the beautiful South Hams.    Take a look at our winter 2022-23 availability now.

 

Devon holidays for food lovers

Devon will set your taste buds buzzing whatever the season. Here’s what we think are the best foodie things to do in Devon this winter:

Wine and dine at Devon’s best restaurants

Devon has a growing reputation for producing award-winning wines, which you can sip at one of many local Michelin Star restaurants – we have five in Dartmouth and in Torquay.

Here are some more of our favourite places to eat.

Eat local

If you’d like to pick up local produce to prep back at your holiday cottage, you’ll find Dartmouth Farmers Market in the Old Market Square every second Saturday in the month. Totnes Sunday Good Food Market is held in Totnes Market Square on the third Sunday of the month.

Don’t worry If you miss these markets. There are independent traders in Dartmouth, Totnes and Brixham selling locally sourced produce. Our favourites include the Wild Food Devon fishmongers in Dartmouth Old Market and The Deli at Dartmouth, as well as Churston Farm Shop.

Of course, if you prefer the food to come to you, we can recommend plenty of local businesses who will deliver right to your cottage door.

Visit Dartmouth’s foodie festival

Stay in South Devon in October and you can experience Dartmouth Food Festival. This free event has been described by The Telegraph as a ‘heady mix of celebrity chefs, parties, food markets, tasting shacks and demonstrations’. I don’t think we could sum it up better ourselves.

Reasons why families will love a winter break in Devon

The days may be a little shorter and you’ll need to pack your wellies, but there’s plenty of magic to be found in Devon in the winter.  In fact, thanks to the South West’s milder climate, we often find warm summer days carry on well into the autumn months.

Devon family days out this winter

There’s plenty of things to do in South Devon all year round. Our local zoos, Paignton and Dartmoor, are open every day, and vintage steam trains run from Kingswear and Totnes every weekend, with festive specials in December.

In fact, Christmas is a big event in Devon. From early November you’ll find a packed calendar

 of Christmas activities from atmospheric lantern parades, light up steam trains and markets, to Santa’s grottos and pantomimes.

 

 

Here are some more family attractions in to enjoy during a holiday in South Devon.

 

Things to do on wet days

If the rain is pouring you needn’t leave Nethway Farm.

Take advantage of our large play barn for ball games, pool, ping pong and table football. And don’t forget our under fives soft play room and toasty warm indoor pool with sauna.

Romantic breaks in Devon this winter

If you’re planning a couples’ getaway there’s plenty of reasons to book a romantic stay in Devon this winter.

Here’s some inspiration to make your holiday truly special:

Romanic meals out

Reserve a table for two at a restaurant beside the River Dart. Choose from Platform 1, The Angel, The Seahorse or Bushells for fine dining with a view.

Indulgent picnics or meals in

Call on our friends at Dartmouth Fine Foods to pack you a picnic box full of locally sourced food to enjoy at a Dartmoor beauty spot or on the beach. Wrap up warm!  Alternatively they do the most amazing, high end restaurant meals which you just need to heat up and enjoy in the warmth of the cottage!

Create your own souvenir

For something a little different, book into a gin making masterclass with Devon Gin School. During your experience you’ll distil your very own 70cl bottle of gin using a mini copper pot still and a range of delicious flavours.

What better souvenir of your romantic break in Devon?!

Devon sunsets

Watch the sun dip below the horizon at a South Devon beach. Then cosy up in front of the wood burning stove in one of our secluded cottages.

Walking holidays in Devon

Winter is the perfect time to explore Devon’s beaches and countryside. At times you might feel like you have it all to yourselves.

Coast walks in South Devon

The South West Coast Path is less than a mile away from Nethway Farm. Head south past Coleton Fishacre and you can cross the River Dart at Kingswear using the Lower Ferry. Continue your hike towards Little Dartmouth, Stoke Fleming and Slapton Ley beyond.

Go North and you’ll find Berry Head Nature Reserve, the fishing port of Brixham and the sweeping shoreline of Torbay with lots if hidden coves along the way.

Many beaches are dog-friendly in the winter months – perfect if you’re seeking a dog-friendly winter break.

Walk the moors

Another amazing place for walks suitable for all abilities is Dartmoor.

For a leisurely riverside stroll visit Hembury Woods near Buckfastleigh. Follow the paths as they wind upwards through the woods to discover the remains of Hembury Castle Hill Fort, which has views across southern Dartmoor.

 

For a moorland hike, park at the National Park Visitor Centre at Haytor. From here set off on a 6.5 mile walk to Manaton passing scenic Haytor Quarry and the ruins of a medieval famers’ village at Houndtor. You can return via the same route or catch the bus back.

Here are some more South Devon walks.

Stay in Devon this winter

If you’d like to find out more about staying with us at Nethway Farm Holiday Cottages in Devon this winter, check availability or get in touch. You’ll always find the best prices by booking direct.