The ultimate staycation destination has two beach-fringed coasts, stargazing parks and picturesque seaside villages

With two glorious beach-fringed coasts, a pair of national parks, plus quaint villages and vibrant cities, Devon is the ultimate staycation destination. 

This picturesque county – sandwiched between Cornwall to the west and Somerset and Dorset to the east – has everything you need for a fantastic holiday.

Fill your days by building sandcastles, walking the coastal path, trying various watersports, diving into fascinating history or simply embracing nature. 

So the hardest question on your upcoming £9.50 Holiday will be: where to visit first?

If there are keen surfers in your group, you’re in the right place. 

North Devon boasts some of the country’s best surf spots, such as Croyde, Woolacombe and Saunton Sands, with companies like and offering lessons and equipment hire. 

The more sheltered south coast also has a handful of spots to ride perfect waves, including Bantham, Bigbury-on-Sea and Challaborough Bay, and you can book classes with a provider such as . 

If you still want in-water action but prefer something gentler, both North and South Devon are ideal for other water sports, such as bodyboarding, kayaking and canoeing. 

You can even add a splash of history, by hiring a paddleboard with an operator like and then paddleboarding amidst the shipwrecks of Hope Cove in the south.

Or maybe you’re up for leaping into swirling seas near Baggy Point, a significant World War II site in Croyde, with a coasteering session from the likes of . 

With over 500 miles of jaw-dropping coastline, you’re sure to find a sandy bay, hidden cove or private pebbly beach during your visit. 

Those looking to escape the crowds could head to Barricane Beach, which is more hidden than its more famous neighbour, Woolacombe.