Discover UNESCO World Heritage in Devon: 7 places you must see

Discover UNESCO World Heritage in Devon: 7 places you must see

April 11, 2025

Devon, a picturesque area in the southwest of England, is not only beautiful countryside and charming towns, but also a region rich in sites of outstanding cultural and natural value. Seven of these remarkable locations have been recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting their global value and importance. In this article, we will take you on a fascinating journey through these unique places that combine natural beauty, history and geological wonders. From breathtaking cliffs to mysterious scenic parks, Devon offers unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Get ready to discover the hidden treasures that make this region so unique and deserving of its World Heritage designation. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiring places for a family vacation, Devon has something that is sure to delight you. Here are seven places you must see to fully appreciate the richness and diversity of this remarkable region of England.

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Discover geological wonders and picturesque landscapes

Let's begin our journey with the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, a place that impresses not only with its scenic beauty, but also with its geological richness. Covering an area from Torquay to Brixham, this geopark is a true paradise for nature and geology lovers. It offers a fascinating journey through 400 million years of Earth's history, showcasing unique rock formations and fossils. Families with children can participate in educational workshops here, where the little ones will learn to identify different types of rocks and understand the processes that shaped our planet. The geopark has received an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5, indicating its high quality and attractiveness to visitors.

Another place worth visiting is the North Devon National Landscape, also known as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It's an area of outstanding scenic beauty that impresses with a variety of terrain - from wild coastlines to vast moorlands and tranquil river valleys. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5, this place is a real hit with tourists. Families here can enjoy beautiful beaches such as Croyde, perfect for surfing and building sandcastles. It's also worth hiking the scenic trails, which offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic.

We can't leave out the East Devon National Landscape, another AONB area that revels in its natural beauty. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5, this place offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. The red cliffs contrasting with the blue sea make for spectacular views, and numerous walking trails allow you to actively explore this charming corner of Devon. Look out for the beach at Budleigh Salterton, where you can find distinctive round stones, a geological attraction of the region.

When comparing the three sites, it's worth noting that each offers slightly different attractions. English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark focuses on geological and educational aspects, making it ideal for families interested in science. The North Devon National Landscape stands out for its diverse landscapes and opportunities for active recreation, especially for water sports enthusiasts. East Devon National Landscape, on the other hand, offers a quieter atmosphere and is perfect for those who want quiet and contemplation of nature. All of these places have a high visitor rating in common, a testament to their undeniable tourist appeal.

Nature and history in harmonious combination

Continuing our tour of Devon, we must not overlook Berry Head National Nature Reserve, a place that combines natural and historical values. With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5, this reserve offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Nestled on the cliffs, the peninsula is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of seabirds. Children will be delighted to observe dolphins and seals in their natural habitat. In addition, there are remnants of fortifications from the Napoleonic period, which adds a fascinating historical dimension to the site. The walking paths are well-marked and suitable for different fitness levels, making it an ideal place for a family outing.

Another item on our list is Cockington Country Park, a charming country park that takes visitors back in time. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, this park is a true Devon gem. Old houses dating back to the 16th century, picturesque gardens and traditional craft workshops create an atmosphere like a fairy tale. Families can spend all day here, strolling through the extensive green spaces, feeding the ducks in the ponds, or participating in craft workshops. The park also offers several walking trails of varying lengths, allowing you to tailor the activity to the abilities of the little ones. It's worth noting the park's dog-friendly policy, which is an added bonus for families with pets.

Orcombe Point is another site that deserves our attention. This viewpoint, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5, is the official start of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site offers spectacular views of the English Channel and Exmouth's expansive sandy beach. It's the perfect place for a picnic with the family, where you can admire the majestic cliffs and watch a variety of seabirds. For the more active, walking trails are available along the cliffs, offering unforgettable views and the chance to discover fossils.

When comparing the three sites, each offers a unique experience. Berry Head National Nature Reserve is ideal for nature and history lovers, offering a combination of wildlife watching and fortification discovery. Cockington Country Park is an excellent choice for families looking for a peaceful getaway in a picturesque setting, with the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities. Orcombe Point, on the other hand, is a place that will delight lovers of geological wonders and spectacular views. All of these places have high visitor ratings in common, a testament to their attractiveness and the quality of the experiences offered. It's worth noting that Berry Head and Orcombe Point are more focused on nature and offer a more 'wild' experience, while Cockington Country Park provides more structured and organized attractions, ideal for families with young children.

The crowning achievement of a Devon trip

To conclude our fascinating journey through Devon's UNESCO World Heritage Site, we can't leave out the South Devon National Landscape. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) has received an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating, a testament to its undeniable appeal. The South Devon National Landscape is a land of contrasts, combining picturesque coastlines, lush river valleys and charming villages. Families here can enjoy a variety of activities, from relaxing walks along wild beaches to exciting canoe trips along meandering rivers.

One of the area's biggest attractions is the famous South West Coast Path, the longest marked walking trail in Britain. This route offers unforgettable views of the sea and cliffs, as well as the opportunity to observe rich wildlife. For families with children, we recommend the shorter sections of the trail, which are easy to follow and offer numerous viewpoints. Also worth a visit are charming seaside towns such as Salcombe and Dartmouth, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and feel the atmosphere of traditional English resorts.

The South Devon National Landscape also stands out for its accessibility for people with different needs. Many of the trails are wheelchair- and mobility-accessible, making it ideal for multigenerational family outings. In addition, the area is famous for its 'floating trails,' or SUP and kayak routes, which allow visitors to explore the region's beauty from the perspective of the water - a great alternative to traditional hiking, especially appealing to older children and teens.

When comparing the South Devon National Landscape with the previously discussed sites, it's worth noting that it offers the most diverse experience. While the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark focuses on geological aspects and the Berry Head National Nature Reserve on conservation, the South Devon AONB combines elements of all of these sites. It offers both scenic landscapes, a rich cultural heritage and a variety of active recreational opportunities.

To summarize our tour of Devon's World Heritage sites, it's worth noting that each of the seven described places offers unique experiences and attractions. From the geological wonders of the English Riviera, to the wild beauty of the North and East Devon National Landscape, to the natural and cultural richness of Berry Head, Cockington Country Park, Orcombe Point and the South Devon National Landscape, each place has its own unique character. But all of these locations have one thing in common - they are a testament to Devon's extraordinary natural and cultural wealth, which has deservedly been recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When planning a family trip to Devon, consider visiting all of these places to fully appreciate the diversity and beauty of the region. Each offers something unique, from educational geological experiences, to active outdoor recreation, to quietly contemplating the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or an educational experience, Devon is sure to meet your expectations. Remember to respect nature and local communities while visiting, helping to preserve this unique heritage for future generations.

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