Days out or activities in glorious Devon?

[snail1973]

We're off to Devon for half term. Keen to get out and about but don't want to spend hours in uber-touristy or OAP style attractions. Can anyone suggest lovely things for active family with 4 yo and a dog to do eg. nice beaches for brisk walks, good places to scooter, kid-friendly cafes etc? Thank you!

We used to spend a lot of time on Dartmoor, though understand that it is more touristy now. here

My kids found the walk at Lydford Gorge exciting - don't be put off by it being NT. Maybe pricey though - I am a bit out of touch with UK costs and my jaw was hanging open when I read on another thread what cafes charge for cup cakes.

Which part of Devon? Dartmoor to me says letterboxing (like orienteering) you can get all the info from any tourist information place. There are some great cycle tracks, Tarka Trail in North Devon, the new Sustrans path in the South, again get the maps from the tourist information - probably online too. All the beaches are nice! except possibly Westward Ho! and most allow dogs now it is past September. Don't forget to have a cream tea or three, and have a lovely time.

Thank you both. We'll be between Newton Abbot and Torquay.

I'll have a look into letterboxing and cycle tracks.

Praying that this sunshine will continue... I love Devon on a sunny autumn day

Blackpool Sands is one of my fav places ever, BUT, I don't think you can take the dog with you

Bantham Beach is lovely too.

I second the idea of a bracing Dartmoor walk. I would suggest Grimspound stone circles, or find Spitchwick bridge and cross the road from the car park and just follow the river from there (away from the nasty restaurant on the other side of the car park). Lunch at the Rugglestone Arms is also to be recommended.

If you can get a booking at Riverford Field Kitchen then do it. But I expect they are booked out for half term. You get a tour of Riverford Farm followed by amazing food in a very kid friendly barn. Google it to see.

I love a walk along the River Dart from Dartington to Staverton. Stunning. This can be followed by lunch at the White Hart in Dartington.

Beach wise try Gara Rock. Or Bantham. The cafe at Blackpool Stands is nice and has stunning views.

If you want acutaly activities for the kids try the River Dart Country Park.

Thanks to Avocadoes for the Riverford Farm suggestion. We had lunch there last Friday and it was AMAZING!!!