With beautiful landscapes and a gorgeous coastline, the county of Devon is an excellent destination for a peaceful time away with your partner in the countryside. You can start your trip by taking in the tranquility on the beautiful moors of Dartmoor National Park. If you want to take your loved one for a charming experience, you can go for a ride on Dartmouth Steam Railway. You can also get some couple photos clicked amidst lovely flowers and colorful foliage at RHS Garden Rosemoor. And of course, feel free to spend relaxing moments together on one of the many beaches whenever you wish.
With the lovely cities and towns in the county offering different delights, it is better to make a proper plan before your visit. Check out these best romantic getaways in Devon, UK, for a great vacation with your darling.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 04, 2024.
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1. Exeter
Delicious food in the restaurant, superb breakfast, good selection of quality dishes, good breakfast options and selection
Incredible value for the price of stay, convenient parking
Great location for the Quay and city center, centrally located, close to town and historic property
Outdoor heated swimming pool, spa, comfortable beds, sustainable credentials
Exeter is an amazing option for couples who love history. Founded even before the arrival of the Romans, this ancient city features an array of historic attractions, including its distinctive Underground Passages and impressive Roman wall.
You can appreciate the gorgeous architecture of Exeter Cathedral, and then check out stunning exhibits at the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery. During sunset, sit by the water and watch swans gently swim by in the canal.
You can also choose from excellent accommodations in the city. While Hotel du Vin Exeter has contemporary interiors with posh furnishings, Mill on the Exe is more about rustic elements and outdoor spaces.
Hotel du Vin Exeter
Address: Magdalen Street
347 meters (0.3 ft) from Exeter Cathedral
Mill on the Exe
Address: Bonhay Road
638 meters (0.4 ft) from Exeter Cathedral
2. Ilfracombe
Good quality breakfast and reasonably priced meals, but some guests found the bar to be lacking in options.
Reasonable pricing for seafront location, but breakfast not always included.
Prime location on the harbor, close to restaurants, and convenient for Lundy ferry.
Spacious rooms, beautiful sea views, and easy access to the beach.
If you and your partner are beach bums, you will be glad to know that Ilfracombe offers award-winning beaches. Carved by hand in the early 20th century, the tunnels at Tunnels Beaches are sure to pique your interest. As this town is also known as the culinary hub of North Devon, planning exquisite dinners with your special one will be rather easy.
If you want a traditional-style poster bed along with views of the sea for your stay, you can check out Royal Britannia Hotel.
Royal Britannia Hotel
Address: Broad Street
68.03 km (42.3 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Ilfracombe Carlton Hotel - Hotel
Address: Runnacleave Road
68.36 km (42.5 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
3. Exmouth
The seaside town of Exmouth is known for its beautiful coastline. If the two of you love going on serene walks on the sand, you can take advantage of the longest seafront in Devon here. Later, take your partner on a journey of the senses by embarking on a guided tour of the Exmouth Flower Trail. Meanwhile, nature-loving couples can head to The Maer.
Both Lympstone Manor Hotel and The Imperial Hotel Exmouth are great options if you wish to feel like royalty during your stay in this town.
Lympstone Manor Hotel Restaurant & Vineyard - Relais & Chateaux
Address: Lympstone Manor Hotel Courtlands Lane
11.81 km (7.4 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
The Imperial Hotel Exmouth
Address: The Esplanade, Exmouth
14.29 km (8.9 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
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4. Barnstaple
Deemed the social hub of North Devon, Barnstaple is a great fit for all the social butterflies. You can impress your partner by taking them to Queen’s Theatre to watch an amazing performance and dine at an elegant place afterward, such as Lush Bar & Restaurant. As the town presents both big brands and family businesses, you can indulge in some retail therapy on High Street together before you leave.
For your stay, choose The Imperial Hotel for classy rooms amidst beautiful flower gardens, or Cedars Inn by Greene King Inns for traditional-style accommodation.
The Imperial Hotel
Address: Taw Vale Parade
54.07 km (33.6 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Cedars Inn by Greene King Inns
Address: Bickington Rd
55.08 km (34.3 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
5. Dartmouth
Dartmouth is a superb destination for active couples. You can set out to explore River Dart for a peaceful time with each other, and you can strengthen your bond over kayaking or paddleboarding trips. Later, feel free to walk up a slope, lie down on the green grass, and watch boats lazily sail by on the clear blue water below.
History buffs will have a great time visiting the waterfront Dartmouth Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. You can also spend sunny mornings on the lovely beach at Blackpool Sands.
To enjoy lovely views while staying in a building originally constructed in the 17th century, choose The Royal Castle Hotel.
The Royal Castle Hotel
Address: The Quay
41.4 km (25.8 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Browns Hotel
Address: 27-29 Victoria Road
41.44 km (25.8 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Superhost
6. Tavistock
Founded in ancient times and surrounded by lush greenery, Tavistock is the sole town in the county to boast a world-heritage status.
Here, you can enjoy romantic strolls amidst tall trees by River Tavy on a nice day. You can refresh and recharge with some nice cream tea in the afternoon. And in the evening, you can explore Pannier Market, which has existed for over 900 years. If you want to learn more about the town, you can also hop on one of the heritage walks.
For a castle-style stay in Tavistock, book Bedford Hotel.
Bedford Hotel
Address: Plymouth Road
47.45 km (29.5 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
7. Salcombe
Magnificent dining experiences with first-class service, but some guests found the food to be expensive and underwhelming at times.
Reasonable pricing with complimentary amenities like gin and tonic, but additional charges for certain services.
Superb location overlooking the estuary with easy access to the town and beautiful coastline, but parking can be challenging.
Excellent spa and pool facilities, complimentary gin and tonic, but some maintenance issues observed.
If you are a nature-loving couple, you will be happy to know that Salcombe is situated within the South Devon Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty. Whether it is relaxing boat rides, walks through idyllic streets, or simply taking in the views, the town offers many laid-back activities for guests. You can also have a fun day of surfing or kayaking as Salcombe sits on the banks of an estuary. To end your day with a sweet treat, head to Cranch’s Sweet Shop.
You can woo your partner with a gorgeous waterfront stay by choosing Harbour Beach Club, Hotel & Spa.
Harbour Beach Club & Hotel
Address: South Sands
58.12 km (36.2 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Harbour Hotel & Spa Salcombe
Address: Cliff Road
56.77 km (35.3 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
8. Sidmouth
Situated on the coast in the gorgeous countryside, Sidmouth is perfect for a unique getaway with your sweetheart. You can witness the amazing cliffs from the long stretch of the beach or unwind in the lush Connaught Gardens while savoring panoramic views. Whenever you need refreshment, you can head to a cute cafe such as Someday Something for some delicious cream tea. For a dose of history, visit Sidmouth Museum, which is housed in a Grade II-listed building.
If you want to add a culinary experience to your stay, you will be excited to know that The Victoria Hotel offers award-winning food.
The Victoria Hotel & Source Spa
Address: The Esplanade
20.75 km (12.9 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Harbour Hotel & Spa Sidmouth
Address: Manor Road
20.65 km (12.9 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
9. Paignton
Paignton, a seaside resort town on the English Riviera, is a great choice for a fun holiday. It offers plenty of options for water sports for adventure-loving couples. You can also simply hold hands and walk down the promenade and watch the colors in the sky during sunset from the traditional pier. If you’re visiting in the month of July, make sure to attend the colorful Paignton Festival to immerse in the local culture. For wonderful cultural performances, head to The Palace Theatre.
You can spend an undisturbed vacation if you book Channel View Boutique Hotel - Adults Only. On the other hand, The Palace Hotel offers a grand stay for guests.
The Palace Hotel
Address: Esplanade Road
31.85 km (19.8 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Channel View Boutique Hotel - Adults Only
Address: 8 Marine Parade Marine Parade
30.81 km (19.2 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
10. Torquay
Delicious, well-cooked breakfast with good gluten-free options, fabulous restaurant and bar food, though slightly expensive
Reasonable pricing for a luxurious experience, with additional charges for parking
Ideal location in central Torquay, close to the beach and city center, though a bit uphill
Exceptional spa facilities and attentive, friendly staff, with some rooms needing modernization
A resort town on the English Riviera, Torquay offers a rather posh getaway. Whether you want to plan a lunch at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants, such as The Elephant Restaurant, or spend an evening at a chic cocktail bar, you won’t be disappointed. To give your darling an unforgettable experience, you can charter a yacht from the international marina. If you and your beloved are adventurous explorers, you must visit the exciting Kents Cavern.
After all the fun, you can unwind in one of the bubbling hot tubs at Lincombe Hall Hotel & Spa - Just for Adults. If you want to pamper yourselves with rejuvenating treatments during your stay, you can choose The Headland Hotel & Spa.
Lincombe Hall Hotel & Spa - Just for Adults
Address: Meadfoot Road
29.2 km (18.2 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
The Headland Hotel & Spa
Address: Daddyhole Road
29.49 km (18.4 mi) from Exeter Cathedral
Soak in the country charm of Devon
Besides rich history and lovely beaches, the charming countryside of Devon is a great choice for a truly relaxing holiday with your partner. With different types of activities on offer, the lovely towns and cities in the county have something for every couple. Head to some of these best romantic getaways for an amazing time!
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