Braunton Cottage is only a short drive from many of North Devon’s attractions with something on offer for everyone, from families seeking child friendly attractions with all-weather facilities, to couples looking to escape to a peaceful spot surrounded by nature.
To help you plan your holiday we have put together some information on just a few of the local attractions. For some of the child friendly attractions tickets can be purchased in advance with a discount.
The beautiful RHS Rosemoor lies on the outskirts of Torrington and is open all year round. Nestled in a pretty valley, the garden has a wonderful mix of both formal and informal plantings that reflects its history and character. Rosemoor holds a number of events throughout the year and also has a great restaurant.
The National Trust managed Arlington Court is just a few miles outside of Barnstaple and set in a large 2,700 estate, which guests are welcome to explore. As well as pretty gardens, Arlington is also home to a Regency house and a large collection of horse-drawn vehicles.
There is so much more to Hartland Abbey than just a historic house, including a series of gorgeous gardens and landscaped grounds. The estate has even been used in several well-known films such as Sense and Sensibility. For children there are donkeys to meet and a nature trail to follow.
Marwood Hill Gardens is just a short drive from North Street Cottage and is a magical place to spend a few hours. Set in a 20-acre valley on the edge of Barnstaple, the garden is home to some stunning views, as well as a colourful collection of plants. Looking to take something different home? Marwood has a plant sale area, which is guaranteed to tempt you.
Broomhill Sculpture Gardens wonderfully combines art and flowers with more than 300 sculptures set amongst the 15 acres of wooded valleys and cultivated gardens. Broomhill is also home to an award-winning restaurant, which serves slow food, and an art gallery.
Dartington Crystal in Torrington is the UK’s only remaining glass factory, so its visitor experience is well worth considering. At the centre you can get up close to the skilled glass makers on the factory floor before getting creative yourself with several activities, including hand casting, glass blowing and jewellery making.
The Big Sheep near Bideford is North Devon’s largest all-weather family attraction. Spend time getting to know some of the animals in the barn and petting corner before having fun on the rollercoaster or in Ewetopia a large indoor playground. For adults there is an onsite brewery and gin distillery.
Exmoor Zoo is a great day out for all the family with a wide range of wildlife on show from creepy crawlies to wobbly wallabies. The park, which is home to range of animals, many of which are facing extinction also has plenty of hands on activities, which are sure to get the children excited. Don’t forget to look out for the notorious Exmoor Beast, which resides at the zoo.
The incredible Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park on the edge of Combe Martin is set over 28 acres and is home to a selection of wild animals, including wolves and lions, as well as an impressive collection of animatronic dinosaurs. The park also has the dino express train ride, a dinosaur museum and an indoor soft play area.
At Quince Honey Farm in South Molton, visitors can witness the world’s largest honeybee exhibition. BeeWorld allows you to see the hives up close and get to know more about the life of a honeybee. There are also guided tours and beekeeping demonstrations. During the summer months other activities available include beeswax candle making. Quince Honey Farm also has its own indoor soft play area, café and shop.
Watermouth Castle is one of North Devon’s best loved family friendly attractions with a series of rides and activities to keep all the family entertained. As well as a Victorian Castle, Watermouth is also home to a small theme park, landscaped gardens and Gnome Land. There is also the water show extravaganza, which combines music, water and lights.
All-weather family fun is guaranteed at The Milky Way Adventure Park, which is located near Clovelly. The attraction is home to rollercoasters, dodgems, a large indoor play area, an assault course and slides. There are even live shows such as those that feature Merlin from Britain’s Got Talent.