An Itinerary for an Unforgettable Roadtrip through Devon in a Campervan

Devon. Robert Bye

Hello, and welcome to a brand new adventure! We’re taking a campervan road trip through Devon, a naturally striking and untampered playground for open-air adventures. The county boasts a range of picturesque seaside towns, golden beaches, coastal walks, and sleepy villages. With two coastlines and oodles of inland space, there’s plenty to uncover and explore. Look forward to diverse landscapes, picturesque coastlines, and rich heritage. Nestled in southwest England, Devon is where you go for seaside frolics, adventures in rugged untamed landscapes like the Dartmoor National Park, and outdoor activities, like walking, cycling and wildlife spotting.

We’ve created an itinerary highlighting the best places to visit in Devon and we’ve also included a range of Devon campsites, Devon campervan hire locations, and potential camping spots near each attraction. Devon spans a rather large area, our campervan road trip itinerary helps to find spots you might not otherwise know.

• An Itinerary for an Unforgettable Roadtrip through Devon in a Campervan
• Part 1: Taking in The Sights And Sounds of Tavistock on a Campervan Toad Trip
• Part 2: Scenic Routes and Campsites for a Road Trip Through Dartmoor National Park
• Part 3: Road Trip South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Part 4: Road Trip East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Part 5: Road Trip Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Fill up on petrol when you can, as petrol stations in some parts are infrequent and remember country lanes make it hard to spot oncoming traffic when navigating bends. So with that, we embark on a campervan road trip holiday that takes us off the beaten track into a magical corner of England.

Hire a campervan in Devon and kick off your journey in the tranquil Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, one of the country’s most captivating landscapes.We leave the valley behind for the rugged expanse of Dartmoor National Park, a great spot to relax if you’re looking for campsites in Devon. Our adventure continues as we traverse the stunning East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where rolling hills meet dramatic cliffs along the Jurassic Coast. We then delve into the serene beauty of the Blackdown Hills, another designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, before venturing into the untamed wilderness of Exmoor National Park. Our road trip concludes along the breathtaking North Devon National Coast AONB, where sandy shores and dramatic cliffs await. Join us as we discover the diverse beauty and timeless charm of Devon.

We’ll dive into each of these locations in depth as we progress along our way.

• Start: Tavistock
• Part 2: Dartmoor National Park
• Part 3: South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Part 4: East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Part 5: Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Part 6: Exmoor National Park
• Part 7: North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• End: Hartland Peninsula

Start: Tavistock

Emsworthy, Alison Day

We kick off our journey in grand style at the ancient market town of Tavistock. Once a thriving tin mining settlement, the town is now best known for its blend of mediaeval architecture, quaint streets lined with artisan shops, and sprawling greenery that stretches towards Dartmoor National Park. A must here is sampling the famous cream teas which pair beautifully with other local delicacies. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Sir Francis Drake, using it as your base to explore Dartmoor National Park, or winding down a crackling campfire at sunset, Tavistock has heaps to explore, and we’ll dive into all its wonderful attractions in our next blog update.

Check out the full guide here: Taking in The Sights And Sounds of Tavistock on a Campervan Toad Trip

Part 2: Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor, Devon. Hannahscott_Art

With Tavistock located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, it's only natural that our second stop leads right into the verdant landscapes and natural beauty of Dartmoor National Park. Look forward to losing yourself in a mesmerising tapestry of open landscapes, ancient tors, rare wildlife, and expansive moorlands. With 450 miles of paths to walk and cycle, hundreds of archaeological sites and stunning views at every corner, there’s no shortage of mysterious stories, hidden gems, and gorgeous spaces to sit back, soak in the scenery and be one with nature. Drivers can enter the national park via Ashburton, which is known as the gateway to southern Dartmoor, and boasts a vibrant foodie scene. Look forward to our selection of stunning camping locations in tranquil and beautiful locations that make it seem like you’re miles away from civilization.

Check out the full guide here: Scenic Routes and Campsites for a Road Trip Through Dartmoor National Park

Part 3: South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Slapton Ley, Kingsbridge. Ray Harrington

South Devon is part of the protected landscapes across Britain, joining Dartmoor National Park, and covers 60 spectacular miles of coastline, countryside, and estuary between Plymouth and Torbay. Take your camper along scenic coastal roads bordered by golden beaches, quaint fishing villages, and lush green countryside. Discover historic towns like Dartmouth with its picturesque harbour or explore the rugged cliffs and sandy coves of the Jurassic Coast. South Devon's mild climate and stunning vistas make it a glorious spot for relaxing drives punctuated by well-earned stops at local seafood eateries, visits to historic castles, or peaceful walks along the South West Coast Path. We’ll dive into some of the big hitters, the lesser known gems, and exceptional camping locations as we uncover the third stop on our itinerary.

Check out the full guide here: Road Trip South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Part 4: East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Ladram Bay Holiday Park, Budleigh Salterton. Sarah Doffman

Vast and captivating landscape beckon campers who want to explore East Devon, one of many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty we will explore on our road trip through Devon road trip. We’ll experience the timeless beauty of towns like Sidmouth with its elegant Regency architecture, and venture into the peaceful countryside peppered with thatched cottages and ancient churches. The Jurassic Coastline, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons with dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich beaches, and hidden coves. East Devon's tranquil atmosphere and scenic drives make it a wonderful location for a road trip, and you'll soon discover that each mile reveals a blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage for a memorable stay.

Check out the full guide here: Road Trip East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Part 5: Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Blackdown Hills Aonb. Jennywren007

Hey, ho! We’re back to exploring yet another gorgeous Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - the Blackdown Hills.The landscape is famed for its extraordinary beauty and offers a beautiful setting comprising rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages. The Blackdown Hills rest on the Devon and Somerset border, offering easy access to other attractions and local amenities. We’ll rumble down winding lanes leading past orchards, set up camp on generous pitches surrounded by hedgerows bursting with wildflowers, and spend hours soaking in the scenery from panoramic viewpoints over patchwork fields. Visitors can also visit Broadhembury, Cotleigh, and Dunkeswell. The laid back ambiance and relatively quiet roads make the area a delight for leisurely drives, allowing campers to discover charming market towns, historic churches, and local artisanal crafts. Get away from the bustle of city life with our list of attractions in the Blackdown Hills, and fall in love with stop number five along our Devon road trip.

Check out the full guide here: Road Trip Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Part 6: Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park, Ilfracombe. Maddox Howe

Combine wide, open, and often isolated spaces with a brimful of activities and you’ve got yourself a cracking holiday in Exmoor National Park. Our adventures will take us through rugged moorland, deep valleys, and coastal cliffs that famously define this unique landscape. The snaking roads provide breathtaking views of heather-clad hills, ancient woodlands, and the vast glittering expanses of the Bristol Channel. Stop at picturesque villages like Porlock or Dunster with their quaint cottages and historic charm, or explore the park's diverse wildlife and wild ponies grazing freely. Exmoor's peaceful atmosphere and varied scenic routes make it perfect for a road trip in your campervan rental. We’ll dive into hours of outdoor adventure, wildlife spotting, and wind down at a lovely campsite surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Stay tuned for our updates.

Part 7: North Devon Coast, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Ilfracombe. Richard Brannen

Quite fittingly, we end our road trip in the North Devon Coast, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. What better way to conclude a memorable road trip than with some fun in the sun? A varying landscape ranging from coastal cliffs to pristine beaches, and picturesque villages tucked away in lush green valleys provide an enticing playground for all manner of open-air exploits. Explore the English coastline at its finest with our selection of attractions and camping spaces in the area. We'll follow routes that twist along coastal roads, offer breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, and watch waves crash dramatically against towering cliffs dotted with nesting seabirds. What better way to end the day than at quaint seaside towns like Ilfracombe or Clovelly? We’ll explore narrow cobbled streets, and sit down to admiring sunset views across bustling harbours while sampling local seafood.

Part 8: Hartland Peninsula

Hartland Peninsula. lyn040

The Hartland Peninsula in North Devon, is a untamed and picturesque stretch of coastline renowned for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. Jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, it is surrounded by the wild waters of the Bristol Channel on one side and the calmer waters of Bideford Bay on the other. We’ll explore a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Its unspoiled landscapes and laid back atmosphere make it a haven for those seeking solitude and views. Whether you're exploring the coastal paths, discovering hidden beaches, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air, the Hartland Peninsula captivates with its rugged charm , and we’re going to explore its numerous attractions.

Our Campervan Road Trip in the Devon Map

Hey there! Come follow us in your campervan as we head out on a Devon road trip. if you're wondering where we're headed, why not take a look at the map below?

Devon's diverse landscapes, from expansive sandy beaches like Woolacombe to the wild beauty of Exmoor National Park, provide near endless opportunities for an array of outdoor adventures. We’ll make the most of this coastal stretch famed as a haven for nature lovers and camping sorts, and capture the essence of the unspoiled English coastline at its finest. So that’s the outline of our campervan road trip itinerary for Devon. We recommend a campervan hire as the best way to get around the county, public transport is not as frequent as expected nor as useful. Look out for our forthcoming instalments, highlighting the best that each location has to offer.