Beautiful Views of Devon: 10 Places That Take Your Breath Away

Beautiful Views of Devon: 10 Places That Take Your Breath Away

April 11, 2025

Devon, located in southwest England, is a land of breathtaking views, where nature paints landscapes that linger in the memory. From steep cliffs to verdant valleys, from wild beaches to picturesque gardens, this region offers countless opportunities to enjoy the beauty of nature. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through 10 of Devon's most beautiful viewpoints that will delight adults and children alike. Get ready for an unforgettable experience and discover why Devon is a paradise for landscape photography enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates picturesque landscapes.

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The cliffs and coast of Devon

Devon is famous for its impressive coastline, which offers some of the most beautiful views in England. Let's start our journey at Hooken Cliffs, located near the village of Beer. These spectacular cliffs, rated 4.8 stars, provide unforgettable views of the English Channel. The path that runs along the cliffs allows you to admire not only the sea, but also the unique rock formations and rich vegetation. This is an ideal place for a family stroll, although be sure to wear appropriate footwear due to the steep descents in places.

The next point on our route is the East Devon National Landscape, an area protected for its unique scenic qualities. It's a place where red cliffs contrast with green meadows and forests. Rated 4.8 stars, it offers numerous walking trails of varying difficulty, making it an ideal destination for families with children of all ages. Look out for the viewpoint at Orcombe Point, which marks the beginning of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast.

Moving north, we reach the North Devon National Landscape. This area, also rated 4.8 stars, features wild coastal beauty and expansive beaches. This is an ideal destination for landscape photography enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities to capture the magic of Devon. Families with children will appreciate the spacious beaches and the variety of landscapes, from cliffs to dunes.

Of particular note is the National Trust's Morte Point, a viewpoint rated as high as 4.9 stars. This spot offers spectacular views of the Devon coast and the Bristol Channel. The walk to the viewpoint takes about 30 minutes from the Mortehoe parking lot, making it accessible even to younger children. It's worth planning your visit closer to sunset to experience truly magical views.

When comparing these sites, it's worth noting their accessibility and amenities. Mentre Hooken Cliffs and Morte Point offer a wilder, more natural experience, while East Devon and North Devon National Landscape have better-developed tourist facilities, including restrooms and food and beverage outlets. Parking prices vary, from free in some areas to fees of £4-5 per day in popular locations. Whichever location you choose, each guarantees an unforgettable experience and views that will live long in the memory.

The hidden gems of Devon

Leaving the popular trails, discover Devon's lesser-known but equally stunning scenic spots. One such treasure is Strete Gate, a 4.6-star rated beach offering sweeping views of the sea and coast. It's an ideal spot for families seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Although the beach is rocky, which can be challenging for the little ones, it is this element that gives it its unique character. Note that parking costs £2.50 for the whole day, making it an attractive option for frugal travelers.

Another hidden gem is Higher Tor, located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. This viewpoint, rated at an impressive 4.9 stars, offers panoramic views of the tor's vast moors and distinctive rock formations. It's an ideal spot for families who enjoy an active vacation - a short but steep hike to the summit is rewarded with breathtaking views. It's worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, as the weather on Dartmoor can be capricious.

Not to be missed is Crow Point, a 4.7-star rated site that offers a unique combination of sea, estuary and sweeping dune views. This place is especially recommended for families with children due to the variety of landscapes and play opportunities. Parking costs only £2.50 for a full day, making it an attractive option for a day trip. It's worth noting the lack of amenities such as toilets and refreshment facilities - be prepared for a day out in nature.

For those looking to combine natural beauty with history, Heddon's Mouth is an ideal choice. This place, rated 4.8 stars, offers a scenic walk along the Heddon River, ending with a spectacular view of the rocky beach and cliffs. The route is relatively easy, making it accessible to families with children. Parking is free for National Trust members, which can be a bonus for membership card holders.

When comparing these lesser-known sites, it's worth noting their unique character. While Strete Gate and Crow Point offer easy access and sweeping sea views, Higher Tor and Heddon's Mouth require a bit more effort, but reward with more dramatic landscapes. All of these places have one thing in common - they provide an unforgettable experience away from the tourist crowds, allowing you to get closer to Devon's nature. Whether you choose the beach, the moors or a picturesque valley, each of these places has its own unique charm and offers exceptional opportunities for landscape photography.

Gardens and viewpoints

Devon is not just about wild coastlines and moors - the region is also famous for its beautiful gardens, which offer remarkable views and a tranquil atmosphere. One such place is the National Trust-owned Overbeck's Garden, rated 4.5 stars. Situated on a hill overlooking the mouth of the Dart River, this subtropical garden offers breathtaking panoramas combining sea, river and lush vegetation. It's the perfect place for families who want to combine nature education with relaxation. Note that parking is limited and advance reservations are recommended, especially in high season.

For those looking for more wild beauty, but still in the form of a garden, an excellent choice would be the National Trust's Lydford Gorge. This park, rated at an impressive 4.8 stars, offers spectacular views of the gorge and waterfall. The walking route along the gorge is fascinating, although it can be challenging for the little ones in places. This place is ideal for families who enjoy adventure and active recreation.

Returning to the coast, look out for Exe Estuary Viewpoint, a viewpoint rated a full 5 stars. This spot offers panoramic views of the Exe Estuary and the Devon coast. It is highly recommended for photography enthusiasts, especially at sunrise. Easy access and no parking fees make it attractive for families with young children.

Not to be missed is the National Trust - Baggy Point, a 4.8-star rated viewpoint. This site offers dramatic views of the cliffs and sea, and the walk to the viewpoint is relatively easy, making it accessible to families. However, it is worth bearing in mind the high parking fees (£10), although National Trust members park for free.

When comparing the sites, it's worth noting their diversity. Overbeck's Garden offers the most manicured and exotic surroundings, ideal for leisurely strolls and admiring the vegetation. Lydford Gorge, on the other hand, is for the active, offering a more intense nature experience. Exe Estuary Viewpoint and Baggy Point are classic viewpoints, ideal for those who want to get to spectacular views quickly without long hikes.

Admission and parking prices range from free places like Exe Estuary viewpoint to more expensive options like Baggy Point. It's worth considering purchasing a National Trust membership if you plan to visit more sites managed by the organization.

Regardless of the site you choose, each offers unique experiences and unforgettable views. From subtropical gardens to dramatic cliffs, Devon never fails to impress with its diversity and beauty. These places not only provide a wonderful backdrop for family photos, but also allow for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region's natural beauty. Let's always remember to respect nature and leave these places as we found them, so that future generations can also enjoy their beauty.

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