Devon Family Holidays: Days out in North Devon

Taking your summer holiday in the UK is always a bit of a lottery, as recent summers have proven. In sunny weather, you head to the beach. But when it rains, how do you keep the kids amused?

 

Fortunately, family-friendly Devon is one area that has no shortage of attractions to keep kids entertained even when its plentiful natural attractions are temporarily off the agenda. With kids of varying ages – 9, 6 and nearly 1 – to keep amused, the following places provided havens of fun for my family when the weather let us down.

The Big Sheep

This all-weather attraction close to Bideford stars an array of animals, performing and otherwise. Duck trials, sheep racing and pony rides among the offerings, as is the chance to feed lambs. Ewetopia, the vast indoor play centre, is great to shelter in when the heavens open, and will help tire them (and you) out.

Good for: Wannabe country bumpkins
Don’t bother: If you want rollercoasters

Coombe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park

Though this park set in 26 acres of beautiful countryside near Ilfracombe comes into its own in fine weather, it’s worth knowing about for its indoor entertainment: a butterfly house, a cinema showing a film about dinosaurs and evolution, a dinosaur museum, the Light Show with its audio-visual journey into Space, the Tomb of the Pharaohs, with displays on ancient Egyptian language and culture, and a brass-rubbing centre. Outside, life-size animated dinosaurs thrill kids as they roar and spit, and there are a variety of wild animals, including lions, wolves, monkeys and meerkats, plus regular talks and handling sessions and even (at extra cost) the chance to swim with sealions.

Good for: Fresh air, exercise (it’s large and hilly) and wildlife
Don’t bother: If someone in the family can’t or won’t walk far.


Watermouth Castle

This pretty castle between Ilfracombe and Coombe Martin has nostalgic displays of toys and games and all sorts of curios, including plenty of old fashioned end-of-pier games (have change at the ready). Outside, in its very attractive sub-tropical gardens, are a whole bunch of Victorian rides, including a steam carousel, swing boats and the Snake Tube Slide. Be warned that buggies aren’t allowed inside the castle.

Good for: Smaller children and those who like gentle rides.
Don’t bother: If you want high-adrenalin thrills.

The Milky Way Adventure Park
This more conventional themepark near Bideford boasts Devon’s tallest, fastest and longest rollercoaster, the Cosmic Typhoon, but it’s popular so you’ll have to queue (though there is a smaller version for younger children). With four other rides and a variety live shows, there’s plenty to fill a day out, much of it indoors, including a play centre including a baby and toddler section.

Good for: Occupying a whole day
Don’t bother: If you want a peaceful outing