Luxury hotel stays in Great Britain

Devon

Devon covers a large area of the south-west of England, with coasts on both the Atlantic Ocean and the English Channel. The landscape is defined by Exmoor in the north and Dartmoor towards the centre and the south of the region, deep river valleys that become wide estuaries lined by hills, fields and pretty harbour towns. The north coast produces dramatic surfing beaches whilst the south is home to sandy coves, palm tree-lined promenades and ancient naval ports. The countryside is green and lush, producing rich pastures for cattle and sheep, and with the rich soil often a deep rust colour. There are many historic pathways that criss-cross the countryside, dramatic coastal footpaths and of course, tracks on and between the great areas of moorland, making it a dream for avid walkers. In addition to the Cathedral and University city of Exeter, there are many small market towns such as Totnes, Honiton, Cullompton and Ashburton, pretty seaside resorts such as Sidmouth, Dawlish and Budleigh Salterton and coastal havens such as Dartmouth and Salcombe. There is a strong emphasis on good, local food in Devon, accompanied by local drinks such as locally made craft beer, gin, cider and fruit juices. There are Norman and mediaeval castles, historic houses, gardens, steam railways, wildlife centres and local houses associated with literary and artistic figures such as Agatha Christie's Greenway and Coleton Fishacre, the home of the D'Oyly Carte family. Sporting attractions are abundant on sea and on land, with walking paths, fishing, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and tennis.