Devon
Delightful Devon, county of two coastlines, a pair of distinctive cities and moorland, beaches and harbours aplenty. With enduring appeal for holidaymakers over the years, improvements in communications in recent times have made Devon a magnet for homeowners too.
Devon is almost six counties in one with the cities of Exeter and Plymouth complemented by the distinct areas of North Devon, Mid Devon, East Devon and the South Hams, all offering something slightly different while conforming to a central truth – they are in the main unspoilt and utterly charming.
Exmoor may be, whisper it, only one-third in Devon, with the remainder in Somerset, but this iconic moorland to the east neatly complements dramatic Dartmoor to the west, giving the county two amazing National Parks which are simply stunning.
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Exeter – Cathedral city and booming economic business hub, Exeter is a place on the rise. Historic, charming streets vie with new properties as the development continues apace. The University of Exeter is rightly seen as one of the UK’s best growing institutions and its resultant effect on its surroundings is palpable.
Plymouth – always aware of its naval roots, Plymouth is still a maritime city but it is developing wonderfully into an attractive place to live, especially with the celebrations building for 2020, when it marks the 400th anniversary of the departure of the Mayflower from the city, carrying the Pilgrim Fathers to the New World.
Sidmouth – wonderful and distinctive red cliffs stand guard over this pretty seaside community which offers so much for property buyers, from large period properties to flats and apartments with stunning sea views.
Barnstaple – capital of North Devon, a region of the county on the rise, Barnstaple is starting to make the most of its riverside location with the building of new apartments and subsequent growth in the retail economy.
Salcombe – just about the perfect spot for those who love the water, Salcombe has a stunning mix of wonderful waterside properties, characterful cottages and period properties with a rich history.
Best Hotels in Devon
Lympstone Manor (www.lympstonemanor.co.uk) is world-renowned Michelin star chef Michael Caines’ country house hotel, offering luxurious service, amazing menus and superb service in a beautiful setting. Gidleigh Park (https://www.gidleigh.co.uk) is a country house hotel tucked away down a long Dartmoor lane, offering peace, superb accommodation and amazing food and service. The Pig at Combe (www.thepighotel.com) offers a funky and fresh feel in a traditional country location.
Best Restaurants in Devon
Apart from the amazing food on offer at our three top hotels for Devon, try The Elephant (www.elephantrestaurant.co.uk) which has a fresh, clean feel and amazing food presented with élan. The chef’s table at Noel Corston (https://www.noelcorston.com) is unforgettable – relax on stools at a bar/table as the chef takes you through the stunning menu options he is about to prepare and serve for you. The Mason’s Arms (www.masonsarmsdevon.co.uk) is everything a country pub/restaurant should be - fabulous food served brilliantly in dramatic surroundings.
Best Schools in Devon
Blundell’s School (www.blundells.org) is a popular and proficient school which prides itself on both the excellent academic record it boasts and its emphasis on sport and pastoral elements to its education. Mount Kelly ( www.mountkelly.com) has a superb record of achievement for boys and girls aged 11 to 18, with a linked prep school. Exeter School http://www.exeterschool.org.uk) is a popular and lively school in beautiful surroundings close to the centre of the busy city.
Fun Fact
Devon is the only county in the UK to boast two distinct coastlines – in the north and the south.