Do you love a staycation like me? I love to explore historic houses, stately homes, heritage properties and gardens. You don’t need to travel if you’re lucky enough to have these places on your doorstep. Many of these places of interest in Devon are looked after by the English Heritage.
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English Heritage in Devon
With 58 prehistoric sites, 5 Roman sites, 66 castles, 2 hill figures, a very famous battlefield, a cold war bunker, 7 palaces, 84 ecclesiastical sites, 27 forts, 47 halls and houses, 3 deserted medieval villages, 6 historic bridges, 23 historic gardens, 3 municipal buildings, 13 agricultural and industrial sites, 47 London statues, and over 880 London blue plaques why wouldn’t you have an English Heritage site on your list when you visit Devon?
Best places to visit in Devon
There are so many English Heritage locations and days out in Devon to enjoy if you’re on holiday. These can be family days, rainy days or an adventure with your dog.
Dartmouth Castle
One of the most picturesque days out in Devon is Dartmouth Castle. For over 600 years, it guarded the entrance to the Dart Estuary and the vibrant port of Dartmouth. The views are incredible. If the weather permits, get a river boat from the town quay to the castle, where the landing is a minute’s walk from the entrance. Make sure you have sensible shoes on as there are steep climbs to the top of the battlements and coastal and woodland walks.
Adults £9, Concessions £8.10, Children £5.40, Family £23.40
🐾 Dog friendly
Bayard’s Cove Fort
The Tudor fort was built in Dartmouth between 1522 and 1536 to protect the town from attack. Occupying a terrace cut from the rocky river bank, Bayard’s Cove Fort is picturesquely sited at the entrance to Dartmouth harbour and can only be reached on foot.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Kirkham House
Kirkham House is a well-preserved medieval house which probably belonged to a well-to-do landowner or merchant. It has been built from local stone. The grand hall has space for up to 20 people to dine together. The entrance to the house is through a fine arched oak doorway in a crowded back street opposite new housing.
Free entry
🐾 Not dog friendly
Berry Pomeroy Castle
Berry Pomeroy Castle is one of the most famous properties of the English Heritage in Devon. The perfect romantic ruin and found in a deep wooded valley. It is a tremendous Elizabethan mansion that belonged to the Seymour’s, who rose to prominence during the reign of Henry VIII. Unfortunately, it was never completed and was abandoned by 1700. The visit is ideal for walkers, especially if you want to explore nearby.
Adults £7, Concessions £6.30, Children £4.20, Family £18.20
🐾 Dog friendly
Totnes Castle
A classic Norman motte and bailey castle was built soon after the Conquest. It is on a steep mound, so if you climb to the top, you can expect spectacular views across the town to the River Dart. Look out for the ‘graffiti’ on the trees left by prisoners of war during World War II. Totnes Castle is within easy walking distance of the town.
Adults £6, Concessions £5.30, Children £3.60, Family £15.60
🐾 Dog friendly
Okehampton Castle
Okehampton Castle is the remains of the largest castle in Devon. It was built soon after the Conquest but became a sumptuous residence in the 14th Century. However, the castle fell into ruin during the time of Henry VIII. Walk through the ruins and the wildflower meadows.
Adults £6, Concessions £5.30, Children £3.60, Family £15.60
🐾 Dog friendly
Lydford Castle
The 13th Century square tower keep was never a castle in the usual sense. Lydford Castle was built to act as a prison and was known for its harsh punishments. It was used as a prison until well into the 18th Century. Visiting the historic ruins is a delight. Follow the outline of the Saxon town and visit the church of St Petroc.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement
Merrivale is the remains of a Bronze Age settlement and complex of ritual sites, including three stones in a row, a stone circle, standing stones and several cairns (earth mounds associated with burial). It is believed they were built between 2500BC and 1000BC. If you are unstable on your feet, the visit may not be for you, as there are uneven surfaces, and it is on open moorland.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Upper Plym Valley
You’ll need your walking boots and some time at Upper Plym Valley, with 300 Bronze Age and medieval sites, to discover over a 15.5 square kilometre landscape. It’s hard to imagine what it would have looked like 3500 years ago when it was dotted with settlements and round houses.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Grimspound
The best known of the prehistoric settlements on Dartmoor is Grimspound. It dates from the late Bronze Age. The remains of 24 stone round houses survive here with a massive boundary about 150 metres in diameter. Enjoy the expansive views and walks through the rugged terrain.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Hound Tor Deserted Medieval Village
Another English Heritage in Devon is the remains of the isolated village of Hound Tor are on the edge of Dartmoor. The settlement consists of a cluster of 13th Century stone longhouses and was probably deserted in the early 14th Century. Walk up to the top of Greator Rocks and enjoy the views of the village and surrounding moors.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Blackbury Camp
Blackbury Camp is a hillfort in Devon built in the 4th Century. It was used by Iron Age tribal people probably for several hundred years. There are impressive ramparts and a single entrance protected by triangular earthwork. It is now surrounded by woodland, so it is fantastic for stretching your legs.
Free entry
🐾 Dog friendly
Royal Citadel Plymouth
The fortress was built in the 17th Century to defend the coastline from the Dutch. The Royal Citadel is still used by the military today. Due to this, you do need to pre-book your guided tour and follow the strict security requirements. If you love service history, it’s one of the top Devon places to see.
£12.50 per person
🐾 Not dog friendly
What is included in English Heritage membership?
The English Heritage looks after 400 historical monuments in England, including castles, ruins, and ancient sites. Some of the most famous destinations are in the South West, including Tintagel Castle, Pendennis and Stonehenge.
The English Heritage membership includes:
- Unlimited free entry to all English Heritage sites.
- Free entry for up to six children (aged under 18). They don’t have to be your children. They could be nieces, nephews and friends’ children.
- Free English Heritage properties access for assisting companions or carers for a disabled member. (This can be a different person each time!)
- Free parking at English Heritage car parks.
- Reduced price events, such as Christmas Lights at Eltham Palace or jousting at Pendennis Castle.
- A member’s handbook is sent annually.
- Exclusive members magazine, sent four times a year.
- Online magazine for children, including videos, games, activities and recipes.
- Regular e-newsletters.
- Member’s rewards scheme where you can access over 60 partners. Includes food and drink, discounted hotels and places to stay and other tourist attractions.
- Reduced entry to CADW (in Wales), Historic Scotland and Manx National Heritage properties in your first year and free admission after year one. Free access to Ireland Heritage automatically.
English Heritage Membership Benefits:
- Many attractions are dog-friendly. Best to double-check before you visit. Going inside the buildings can be tricky, as dogs can’t go in them. However, if you go as a couple or a group, you can take it in turns.
- There are plenty of activities for children, although some come at an extra charge or are members only.
- English Heritage is a clear winner if you’re interested in history. This is their primary focus.
How much is English Heritage membership?
English Heritage memberships can be paid annually. Or by direct debit.
Individual Membership (age 18 plus) = £72 per year (£6 monthly)
Senior Membership (age 65 plus) = £66 per year (£5.50 monthly)
Student Membership (age 18-25 with an NUS card) = £42 per year (£3.50 monthly)
Joint Membership (2 adults) = £126 per year (£10.50 monthly)
Joint Membership (2 seniors ) = £99 per year (£8.25 monthly)
Adult and Senior Membership (1 adult and 1 senior) = £111 per year (£9.25 monthly)
Family Membership – as children go free, the prices are the same as individual and joint
Adult Life Membership = £1,725
Joint Life Membership = £2,250
Senior Life Membership = £1,400
Joint Senior Life Membership = £1,800
English Heritage Offer
Use Top Cash Back when purchasing your membership
I’ve been a member of TopCashBack UK for several years and, to date, have earned over £1000 from it. Trust me, it’s a no-brainer, and you can make extra money by shopping online. Currently, you can get 10% back on your English Heritage membership.
Days Out in Devon and Cornwall
I need no excuse to visit Devon and Cornwall! However, if you need some inspiration on other places to visit in Devon and Cornwall, here are some other reviews:
Why you should visit Clovelly Village
Things to do in Gunnislake – Days out in South Devon
Places to stay in Devon
Sykes Cottages
Sykes Cottages has over 17,500 holiday cottages to rent across the UK, including in Devon and the surrounding areas. There are pet-friendly cottages, large holiday homes and even houses with hot tubs. They’ve been operating for over 30 years, so you know you’re booking is in good hands.
Best Western Hotels
There are three Best Western Hotels in Devon; Exmouth Beach, Dartmouth and the Lord Haldon Country Hotel in Exeter. Every Best Western hotel is individual and crammed full of its own personality. From big comfy beds, fresh linen sheets and free WiFi. Some of the hotels in Manchester have parking which charges a small fee. Check out their special offers.
Parkdean Resorts
I stayed at Bideford Bay when I visited Bude. There’s also Challaborough Bay near Bigbur, Ruda and Torquay. The caravan park and lodges have a children’s play park, indoor swimming pool, tranquil gardens, pub and restaurant. It is a short drive to Lostwithiel. There is some dog-friendly accommodation too.
Haven Holidays
Devon Cliffs Holiday Park is in Sandy Bay in Exmouth. It is the biggest park in the Haven family but also a peaceful paradise. With acres of fun for all the family and an award-winning Blue Flag beach, you’ll be thrilled with your stay here. Both caravans and lodges are available here with plenty of leisure facilities and an indoor pool.
Britannia Hotels
Britannia Hotels in Devon are in Torquay and Illfracombe. The hotel offers excellent value for money with spacious en-suite bedrooms, TV’s and tea and coffee-making facilities. Complimentary WiFi sessions are included as well as low-cost parking. Even pets are allowed to stay for a small additional charge.
National Trust Holidays
You can stay in cottages, converted farmhouses and campsites in Devon with National Trust Holidays. With countryside views, you’ll have all the facilities and home comforts to hand. Including patio areas or gardens and BBQs to enjoy in warmer weather.
Cornwall Hideaways
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts and manor houses.
Get 50% off food
Did you know you can get 2-for-1 on meals or 50% off food with a Tastecard? There are independent and chain restaurants to choose from and various cuisines. Get a 2-month free trial here:
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