Family Adventures in
North Devon
Summer Bucket List for Families
Summer is made for family adventures, and there's nowhere quite like North Devon for creating unforgettable holiday memories. From award-winning beaches and exciting attractions to scenic cycle trails and wildlife encounters, the region offers endless opportunities for family fun.
Whether you're staying for a long weekend or a week-long break, here are six fantastic family days out to enjoy during your summer holiday.
1. Build Sandcastles at Woolacombe Beach
No family holiday to North Devon is complete without a beach day, and Woolacombe Beach is one of the UK's finest. With three miles of golden sand, excellent water quality and plenty of space to play, it's perfect for families with children of all ages. Parents can relax while little ones paddle in the shallows or build sandcastles.
Pack a picnic, spend the day by the sea and stay for one of North Devon's spectacular sunsets.
2. Cycle the Tarka Trail
For an active family adventure, head to the famous Tarka Trail. This traffic-free route follows former railway lines through beautiful countryside, estuaries and coastal scenery, making it ideal for family cycling. The trail passes through Barnstaple and offers easy-going sections suitable for younger riders.
There are plenty of bike hire centres along the route, making it easy to enjoy a day outdoors without bringing your own equipment.
3. Explore Exmoor National Park
Swap the beach for breathtaking moorland scenery with a family day on Exmoor. Discover ancient woodlands, dramatic coastlines and open moorland where wild ponies roam freely. Families can enjoy gentle walks, wildlife spotting and picnic stops while taking in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the South West.
It's a fantastic way to introduce children to the great outdoors and enjoy a slower pace of holiday fun.
4. Enjoy a Magical Day at Watermouth Castle
Combining rides, play areas, gardens and a historic castle setting, Watermouth Castle is one of North Devon's most popular family attractions. Children can race down the toboggan run, explore the fairy museum, tackle the maze and enjoy a variety of family-friendly rides and adventures throughout the grounds.
With so much to see and do, it's an easy full day out that keeps everyone entertained.
5. Meet the Animals at Exmoor Zoo
Animal-loving youngsters will love a visit to Exmoor Zoo. Home to a wide variety of species from around the world, the zoo offers close-up encounters, educational talks and plenty of opportunities to learn about conservation. It's a great option for families looking for a fun day out whatever the weather.
Keep an eye out for the zoo's famous Exmoor Beast connection, which has fascinated visitors for years.
6. Discover The Big Sheep
A firm family favourite, The Big Sheep offers a fantastic mix of rides, animals, shows and indoor play areas. Younger children will love meeting farm animals, while older kids can enjoy rides. It's one of North Devon's best all-weather attractions, making it perfect for those occasional cloudy summer days.
Expect lots of laughs, plenty of energy-burning activities and a memorable family day out.
Stay at The Barnstaple Hotel
This Summer
Children aged 16 and under Eat, Drink and Stay FREE
After a day of exploring North Devon's beaches, attractions and countryside, return to the comfort of The Barnstaple Hotel – the perfect base for a family summer escape.
Ideally located for discovering everything North Devon has to offer, The Barnstaple Hotel combines spacious family accommodation with fantastic facilities designed to make holidays easy and enjoyable for parents and children alike.
Families can take advantage of our fantastic value offer where children aged 16 and under eat, drink and stay free. Plus, guests can make the most of complimentary access to our excellent leisure facilities, including both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Whether you're planning beach adventures, countryside exploration or fun-filled attraction visits, The Barnstaple Hotel provides the perfect place to relax, recharge and make lasting family memories this summer.
