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A smiling family walking along a summery beach with the father carrying his son on his shoulders

18 family-friendly activities in North Devon

North Devon has plenty of fun things to do and see for the whole family. From the coastal towns of Ilfracombe and Woolacombe to the inland towns of Bideford, Barnstaple and Torrington, North Devon is a fantastic place for families to enjoy a fun-filled staycation.

Family-friendly activities

The Big Sheep - A North Devon Theme Park

The Big Sheep is a North Devon theme park with a variety of family-friendly attractions. These include sheep racing and shearing and a soft play barn called Ewetopia. For the thrill seekers in the family, there are also several rides, including Rampage. The Big Sheep is an excellent option for a full day out with the family.

Watermouth Castle - A Victorian Castle

Watermouth Castle is a Victorian castle located in North Devon that is now home to a theme park full of rides and attractions for all ages. The castle also has landscaped gardens and a beautiful lake on the grounds. Admission to Watermouth Castle not only gets you access to the attractions but also to the underground water show Extravaganza. This water show will dazzle and delight visitors of all ages with its many different themes based on North Devon. With both indoor and outdoor areas to explore, Watermouth Castle provides a unique day out that’s perfect for anyone who loves history and adventure. Book your tickets in advance, so you don’t miss out on this popular attraction!

Adventure awaits at H2Outdoor

H2Outdoor is an outdoor activity centre that offers a range of activities providing fun for all ages and fitness levels. Activities include kayaking, coasteering, surfing and more—a great way to enjoy the long summer days.

Visit Hartland Abbey - one of North Devon's historic houses

Hartland Abbey is a beautiful stately home that is also a popular filming location. It is open to visitors from Sunday to Thursday, and dogs are welcome on a lead. The abbey grounds are stunning, with plenty of walks and trails to explore and artwork by some of the most famous painters in history. Children can also enjoy nature trails and themed open days throughout the year. You can find out more about visiting hours and ticket prices on their website.

Step out of this world at The Milky Way

The Milky Way Adventure Park is a family-friendly theme park near Clovelly in North Devon. The park is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entrance fee includes all rides, shows and play areas. There are over 110,000 sq ft of indoor fun and acres of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The Milky Way Adventure Park has rides for all ages, including a 30ft tall doughnut slide. Gravity Rider is popular among visitors and rated 4/5 stars on TripAdvisor. Other attractions at the park include the Maze Runner and the Cosmic Typhoon.

Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the entrance to the park.

Visit North Devon’s pretty car-free village Clovelly

Clovelly Village is a beautiful car-free village located in North Devon. It features stunning cobbled streets, a picturesque harbour and pebbled beach. If you’re looking for delicious local food, Clovelly Village has plenty of great restaurants. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, including donkey rides for children during the summer season and craft workshops. And don’t forget your Land Rover ride!

We would definitely recommend a visit to Clovelly Village if you’re in the area!

Soft play at Affinity Devon

The Affinity Devon soft play centre is great for wet days in North Devon. It has a multi-level junior play frame and a climbing wall. Furthermore, the Affinity shopping village is just next door with 25 discount outlets.
The attraction is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily.

Learn to surf at the North Devon Surf School

North Devon is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a great place to learn to surf. Lessons are available for all levels of experience, and the emphasis is on having fun. The North Devon Surf School is a great place to start your surfing journey and if you’re looking for a slower-paced option, try paddle boarding.

Search for tiny friends at the Gnome Reserve

The Gnome Reserve was a small visitor attraction in North Devon that provided magic for children and adults alike for over 40 years. However, the magic hasn’t gone; it has simply relocated. The gnomes can still be visited at their new home in The Merry Harriers Garden Centre.

Fight it out at Survival Games

Survival Games is an excellent airsoft and laser activity for families in North Devon. They are suitable for children 7 years old and upwards and offer a thrilling adrenaline rush that is great for families.
Indulge your inner adventurer at The Ultimate Adventure Centre
The Ultimate Adventure Centre is located in Bideford. It offers a variety of activities, including assault courses, water pools, giant inflatables, and more.

Walk an Alpaca at Woolley Animal Farm Park

Woolley Animal Farm Park is a small family-run farm and attraction offering that lets visitors get up close and personal with the various farm animals. Alongside miniature goats and donkeys, Alpaca walks are also available by appointment.

Stunning scenery awaits at Hartland Quay

Hartland Quay is a beautiful place located in North Devon. It’s perfect for a day out if you love nature and historical attractions. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including swimming, rock pooling, and photography. And if you get hungry, there is a traditional pub and a visitors’ centre located at the quay. Just remember that dogs are not allowed on the beach; only humans are allowed.

Instow beach – a dog-friendly Devon beach

Instow beach is a wide, sandy beach perfect for building sandcastles and playing water sports. The beach is dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along to enjoy the day.

See the National Carriage Collection at Arlington Court

The National Carriage Collection at Arlington Court is a museum with a range of carriages for different occasions. You can explore the museum, stately home and beautiful grounds on foot by carriage or bike. Plus, your four-legged friend is welcome too. Play areas and other seasonal activities make this an ideal attraction for families all year round.

Meet the animals at Exmoor Zoo

The Exmoor Zoo has a variety of animals, including monkeys, big cats, tropical birds, and so much more. The Zoo focuses on natural-style enclosures for its animals, and the black leopard (the Exmoor Beast) is the star of the show. The Zoo is open year-round, and you can learn about the animals that live here by visiting the website.

Take a ride on the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a scenic railway that runs between the villages of Lynmouth and Lynton. The railway is powered by water and gives visitors a panoramic view of the bay as it moves between the two towns. Or, for those feeling particularly energetic, there is a footpath that winds its way up the cliff. The towns of Lynton and Lynmouth both offer a wide range of souvenir shops, restaurants and traditional pubs.

Walk the Valley of Rocks

The Valley of Rocks is a picturesque part of North Devon. With its breathtaking views and rich geological history, the Valley of Rocks is perfect for a family outing. Plenty of walking trails wind through the valley, so everyone can find a route that suits their fitness level. The valley is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place to spot some rare birds or animals.

With so many family-friendly activities in North Devon, there really is something for everyone!

Planning a family trip to Sandy Cove hotel? Speak to us about extra cots, beds and interconnecting rooms.