Summer Holidays in South Devon
5 Must-Do Activities For All the Family
The summer holidays are fast approaching! With sandy beaches, thrilling theme parks, peaceful nature reserves, and plenty more besides, South Devon is just packed with family-friendly activities to help keep both children and adults occupied and entertained.
It doesn’t matter if you're planning a weekend escape or a longer summer break; there’s no shortage of ways to create lasting memories. Here are five brilliant days out in South Devon – all within easy reach of Orestone Manor.
Let imaginations run wild at Woodlands Family Theme Park
18 miles from Orestone Manor
Tucked away in 100 acres of woodland, Woodlands is the South West’s largest family theme park. It's the kind of place where children and adults can play side by side – racing down watercoasters, braving the Avalanche ride, or zipping through sky-high bridges.
The indoor play zones mean there’s plenty to do even if the weather turns, while the zoo-farm introduces kids to everything from goats and pigs to exotic birds and reptiles. Don’t miss the falconry displays or the Big Bug Show for something truly memorable.
Woodlands is a full-day adventure with something for all ages – and a well-earned ice cream at the end.
Make a splash at Dawlish Warren Beach
10 miles from Orestone Manor
With over a mile of soft golden sand, Dawlish Warren is a classic South Devon day at the beach in the very best sense. It’s clean, safe and spacious – perfect for sandcastle building, paddling and sunbathing.
You’ll find family-friendly amusements close by, including go-karts, crazy golf, and a small funfair. Lifeguards patrol the beach in summer, so it’s a safe place for swimming too.
Just behind the dunes lies Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve. The nationally important habitat is home to hundreds of plants and birds – a calm contrast to the buzz of the beach.
With beach huts for hire and dog-friendly areas, Dawlish Warren makes it easy to relax however you choose.
Explore Dartmouth Castle
24 miles from Orestone Manor
Perched at the mouth of the Dart Estuary, Dartmouth Castle has stood guard for over 600 years. Built to protect the busy port from attack, this English Heritage site offers towers, tunnels and tales of battle.
Kids will love exploring the Gun Tower and peeking through arrow slits, while grown-ups will appreciate the sweeping views over the water.
It’s a place packed with history but still very much alive – and a great stop before wandering around Dartmouth’s harbour or enjoying a riverside stroll.
Thrills and laughter at Funder Park
10 miles from Orestone Manor
Funder Park in Dawlish Warren is a small amusement park that delivers big on fun. It’s ideal for younger children and families looking for easy-going rides without the crowds.
Expect carousels, bumper cars, and a mini rollercoaster, all in a cheerful seaside setting. There’s usually live entertainment during the summer holidays too, from acrobats to magicians.
It’s simple, stress-free fun – and perfectly placed for a combined visit with Dawlish Warren Beach just minutes away.
Spot wildlife at Stover Country Park
8 miles from Orestone Manor
Stover Country Park offers peace, space and plenty to explore. The 114-acre nature reserve has easy walking trails, a bird hide, and a lake full of wildlife. It’s ideal for a picnic, a peaceful stroll or a bit of pond-dipping with the kids.
Look out for deer in the woods, dragonflies near the water, and birds flitting through the trees. The aerial walkway and interpretation boards help curious minds learn more about the habitats around them.
Stover is a great way to slow things down and enjoy Devon’s natural beauty at your own pace.
Relax back at Orestone Manor
A day of adventure and exploring can be tiring work! Why not make Orestone Manor your coastal retreat after a busy day of activity?
Unwind in a beautifully designed room, take in the sea views from the terrace, or enjoy a delicious dinner made with fresh, local ingredients by out talented team of chefs. What more could you ask for?
Posted by Craig on May 28th 2025
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