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For a Devon cottage holiday, the best base depends on what you want from the trip. The north coast suits surfers and families who like big sandy beaches, the south coast suits sailing villages, estuary walks and harbour towns, Dartmoor suits walkers and quiet getaways, and east Devon suits gentle seaside stays on the Jurassic Coast. This guide explains how to choose, how far ahead to book and which towns tend to suit couples. We have not tested or inspected any cottages, and we do not quote prices or availability, so check each listing carefully before you book.
Where is best for a Devon cottage?
Devon is one of the few English counties with both a north and a south coast, plus two moors. That variety is the main reason it is so popular for cottage stays, and it also makes choosing a base harder. Think about the type of days you want, then pick the area that fits.
North Devon coast
North Devon has dramatic cliffs, wide surf beaches and small harbour towns. Places such as Woolacombe, Croyde, Ilfracombe and Lynton and Lynmouth are popular bases. It tends to suit active holidays, with surfing, coastal walking on the South West Coast Path and quieter beaches outside peak weeks. Roads can be narrow and winding, and the coast is more exposed to the weather, so pack for changeable conditions.
South Devon and the estuaries
South Devon is known for sheltered coves, sailing and pretty waterside towns such as Salcombe, Dartmouth, Kingsbridge and Brixham. Cottages here often put you within walking distance of a harbour, pubs and ferries. This area can be busy in summer and parking can be limited, so check whether a cottage includes a space. If you want a livelier resort feel, Torquay and Paignton sit on the English Riviera, with more attractions and seafront facilities.
Dartmoor
Dartmoor offers open moorland, granite tors, wild ponies and walking routes of every length. Cottages in and around villages such as Chagford, Widecombe or Lustleigh suit people who want quiet and big skies rather than beaches. Weather can change quickly on the moor, so follow official safety advice, carry appropriate clothing and navigation, and check any military firing range information before walking.
East Devon and the Jurassic Coast
East Devon is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, with towns such as Sidmouth, Seaton, Beer and Budleigh Salterton. It is gentler and often quieter, with fossil-rich cliffs, red sandstone and traditional seaside towns. It can suit older visitors, couples and anyone who prefers a slower pace. Cliffs can be unstable, so follow local warnings and stay away from cliff edges and bases.
Exmoor edge and rural mid Devon
If you want peace and countryside rather than coast, rural cottages in mid and north Devon offer lanes, farms and villages, usually at a short drive from beaches. You will almost certainly need a car, so factor that in. Our car hire guide explains what to compare if you are travelling by train and renting locally.
Are there cottages near the beach?
Yes, plenty. Many Devon cottages describe themselves as close to the beach, but that phrase can mean anything from a few minutes on foot to a short drive, so check the details.
- Look for the walking distance or time from the cottage to the sand, and check whether the route involves steep hills, which matters with young children or limited mobility.
- Check the map yourself rather than relying only on the listing description.
- Ask whether beaches have dog restrictions in summer if you are bringing a pet. Many have seasonal rules.
- Check tide times. Some beaches shrink dramatically at high tide, and some coves can be cut off.
- Look at parking arrangements, both at the cottage and at the beach.
Seafront cottages in popular villages can be more expensive and book earlier. If you are flexible, a cottage a short drive from the coast often offers better value and a quieter setting. For a wider look at seaside stays, see our guide to UK coastal holidays.
How far ahead should I book?
There is no single rule, because demand varies by area, week and cottage. As a general guide, the most popular cottages for school holidays, Easter, bank holiday weekends and peak summer are often booked many months ahead, and some owners and agencies open bookings for the following year well in advance. If you need a specific week, a specific size or a pet-friendly property, booking early gives you more choice.
- Peak summer and school holidays: plan as early as you can.
- Bank holidays and half terms: popular and often booked early.
- Spring and autumn: usually more flexibility and calmer roads.
- Winter: often quieter, with some cottages offering short breaks, though availability and weather vary.
Last-minute deals do sometimes appear, particularly when an owner has a cancellation, but they are not guaranteed. If you are flexible on dates, our last-minute holidays guide explains how to approach this sensibly.
What to check before you pay
- Total price, including cleaning fees, linen, heating, pet charges and any booking fees.
- The deposit, the balance due date and the cancellation or amendment policy.
- Whether the booking is protected, and what happens if the owner cancels.
- Check-in and check-out times, which can be strict on changeover days.
- Whether the cottage has Wi-Fi, a parking space, a garden and a washing machine, if those matter to you.
Consider travel insurance that covers cancellation, particularly for expensive peak-season bookings. Our travel insurance guide explains the basics. This is general information, not insurance advice.
Which Devon towns suit couples?
Different couples want different things, so here are some general pointers rather than rankings.
- Salcombe: a polished estuary town with sailing, water views and good places to eat. It tends to be busy and pricey in summer.
- Dartmouth: a historic riverside town with a harbour, ferries and independent shops, and steam train and boat trips nearby.
- Lynton and Lynmouth: twin villages linked by a cliff railway, set against dramatic scenery for walkers and romantics.
- Sidmouth: a graceful seaside town with a calmer pace and easy coastal walks.
- Totnes and the South Hams: bohemian shops, market days and countryside close by.
- Chagford and Dartmoor villages: for stargazing, walking and quiet evenings by a fire.
A small cottage with a wood burner, a garden or a view is often more memorable than a larger one, so prioritise atmosphere over square footage if there are only two of you.
How do you get to Devon from Sussex?
From Brighton and Sussex, Devon is a long day’s drive or a rail journey with changes, depending on where you are heading. Check current route and timetable details with the rail operators and a route planner before you set off. Many cottage areas, especially rural ones, are hard to reach without a car, so confirm how you will get from the station to the cottage. If you are comparing Devon with other places for a UK getaway, see our UK holidays overview, and for a similar west country option, read about Cornwall holiday homes and cottages.
What should you pack for a Devon cottage holiday?
- Waterproofs and layers, whatever the season.
- Walking boots or sturdy shoes for coast path and moorland.
- Beach gear, including windbreak and towels, if you are staying near the sea.
- Basic groceries for arrival day, as shops may be some distance away.
- A torch, since country lanes and some villages are dark at night.
- Dog bowls, bedding and bags, if you are bringing a pet.
Frequently asked questions
Is Devon or Cornwall better for a cottage holiday?
Neither is better overall. Devon offers two coasts and two moors, often with slightly shorter journeys from the south east. Cornwall is more remote and has its own distinctive coastline. Compare the activities you want and travel times.
Can I find dog-friendly cottages in Devon?
Yes, many cottages accept dogs, but numbers, breeds and charges vary. Check the pet policy and any beach restrictions before booking.
Do I need a car in Devon?
For most cottage stays, yes. Some harbour towns can be explored on foot, but rural areas and beaches often need a car.
Is a Devon cottage good for a family holiday?
It can be, particularly if you choose a spot near a family-friendly beach, with safe access and parking. Check stair gates, enclosed gardens and cots if you need them.
Are cottages open all year?
Many are available year-round, though some owners close in winter. Check availability and heating and facilities for colder months.
What is the best time of year for a Devon cottage?
Late spring and early autumn are often a good balance of weather and crowds, but it depends on what you want. Summer is the busiest period and winter can suit cosy breaks.
With a little research, a Devon cottage gives you a comfortable base for coast, moor and countryside. Pick the area first, check the practical details carefully, and book early if you have fixed dates.