UK Travel Guide - How to Enjoy a Family Holiday in Devon

12th March 2009 - by Andy Easton

How to Enjoy a Family Holiday in Devon

Devon is one of the most popular UK destinations for family holidays and the tourism industry caters for families throughout the county. With the credit crunch meaning that the pound is much weaker against the Euro and the Dollar, UK destinations are particularly popular this year and bookings in Devon are already seeing an increase on last year’s figures.

To enjoy a family holiday in Devon, a little bit of planning before you set off will make sure that the entire family has a holiday to remember. If you have chosen self catering accommodation, make sure you have everything you need. A quick phone call to the provider will ensure that essential items such as towels are provided or if you have to pack your own. If you have very young children, you can also check to see if essential equipment such as high chairs, prams and cots are available at your accommodation. It also pays to check if outdoor features such as ponds have childproof covers and that the accommodation is fitted with stair gates or childproof locks.

One of the great benefits of a family holiday in Devon is the opportunity to go exploring. With miles of beaches and coastal paths and plenty of moorland walks, a good pair of walking shoes is essential. If you’re visiting Devon out of season, it might also be a good idea to pack a pair of Wellington boots in case the going gets a little muddy!

Because there’s so much to see and do in the county, the best way to make sure that you enjoy a family holiday in Devon is to do a little pre planning before you set off. A quick check on the Internet will give you full listings of the attractions in the area you are staying in, opening times of theme parks and zoos and ticket prices. Booking a family ticket in advance can save you time queuing at the attraction on the day and even save you money.

One of the worst things about family holidays is having to leave a beloved pet behind. Many accommodation providers in Devon are dog friendly, so if you want to take your pet with you check to find out which locations welcome dogs and your pet will be able to enjoy the family holiday as well. It also cuts out the costs of any boarding kennel fees, which could easily fund an extra visit to an attraction for the entire family.

Once you’ve reached your destination, it’s a good idea to make sure that your car has a full tank of petrol, especially if your accommodation is on the more remote areas of Dartmoor or Exmoor. Petrol stations are sometimes difficult to find in the more rural areas and there’s nothing worse than running out of petrol with a car full of tired children! Before you set off on your holiday, also check to make sure that your car is fully maintained, that the battery is charged and that there’s that all important spare tyre in the boot.

Mobile phone coverage can be sporadic in the more remote locations, but most of Devon is well covered. Don’t forget to take your phone charger as well as your phone so that you have some means of communication in an emergency.

Devon is one of the most beautiful and welcoming parts of the UK and ideal for a family holiday at any time of the year. The clement weather, fabulous scenery and rich variety of things to do and see mean that, with a few simple pre checks before you set out and a little bit of planning, every member of your family is guaranteed to enjoy a family holiday in Devon.