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Woolacombe

England Trips

A cold, magical view from the heart of Devon

I don’t want to write a technical post with “do’s and don’ts ” but instead to make you wonder what a family trip in different places on this beautiful Earth would look like. Let’s go to Devon people!

The inner beauty of Devon

There is so much to say about it but I will try to make a summary of it, though it’s very hard. Because it is still very cold outside I realised it is impossible to get you to see the bright sunny days of Devon. So instead I want to let you discover another side of Devon…the inside.

We have been so many times in this area, it’s a three-hour drive from our home. I remember the first time we’ve been there, it was on a very cold winters day (November) and it really was love at first sight. Of course, you want to get the best out of a trip to Devon. Therefore, I suggest you give yourself a long weekend or quite a few days instead of a one day trip.

A place to stay, please ?!…

There are many beautiful farms in the area, offering bed and breakfast. We had a very pleasant stay at Twitchen Farm. It’s a lovely bed and breakfast located in The Exmoor National Park. It is hosted by two lovely and friendly sisters Helen and Jaye. http://www.twitchen.co.uk/

They were really happy to help us with maps and to direct us on finding different footpaths available in the area. If you want to stay within your budget and if it isn’t raining, there are gorgeous footpaths along the Coast. The famous South West Coast Path and The Tarka Trail. Just let the farmers around know what you want to do and they’ll tell you where to go. The good part is that you won’t be charged for guidance (wink/wink). Breakfast is something that is worthy to mention. The reason being is that they use local and organic produce to make your breakfast. Almost everything on your plate has been carefully grown or reared in the village or nearby… my mouth is watering.

As a plus, children will be delighted to get closer to the animals around the farm, like dogs, sheep and horses.

Have a look at our pictures here.

A lovely Medieval Village

If you believe a walk on the coastline is not really a good idea for your family then welcome to Dunster!  You are stepping into a Medieval Village with well preserved historic buildings. Once you get here, make sure to try one of the loveliest cream teas I ever had. Warm, freshly baked scones, rich clotted cream and delicious tea, cheeseboard with homemade chutneys and local vegetables. https://www.cobblestonesdunster.co.uk/

In Dunster, there is so much to do. You might want to visit the castle, The Dunster Castle. Try and see how much you can fit into one day from 1000 years of history. It has many stories to tell, for both children and adults. Also, they organize all kind of trails for children, all the time. That keeps them busy so you can enjoy the different collections inside.

Even if it’s a bit chilly, don’t miss the subtropical gardens. Especially this time of year, everything is ready to blossom. Also, visit the restored 18th-century working watermill located in the area of the River Gardens. We have even left with wholemeal flour made from organic grain, which is available to buy on your visit.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle

Devon Doll Museum

Regardless if you have girls or boys, your children will be excited to see one of the largest collections of dolls in the country. There are thousands of dolls from different eras and different cultures. I have even found some from Romania, which is my native country. The museum is on the High Street of Dunster, so it’s close by.

Woolacombe

If your kids still have enough energy after that, get them in the car and take them on the award-winning beach, Woolacombe. The beach is known and recognized for the three-mile-long golden stretch, clear water and beautiful scenery. I found it to be very safe for children. I know, it’s somewhere between winter and springtime, still a bit cold. So we don’t yet use words like “swimming”. But children can have a lot of fun with a pair of binoculars and a magnifying glass, as the place is rich in wildlife. Let them explore! If they’re old enough, they can create their own journey, where they can draw or write about all the things they spot (animals, insects, plants).

Lynton – Lynmouth, inseparable and unique

Another stop on your journey has to be Lynton and Lynmouth. If you don’t like the countryside, you have plenty of classy places where you can stay here. At this time of the year, you might want to check which one of the Guest Houses are opened. As many of them close around this season and reopen in March – April. We enjoyed quality accommodation at Orchard House in Lynmouth. It’s managed by a lovely couple, genuine and friendly. I remember the lady was so kind to our son. So we can enjoy our breakfast after my son had his, the lady took him and played with him. Even gave him a gift, pencils and a colouring book, as we left. We had some beautiful moments there.

Lynton is quite a small village situated on the cliffs above Lynmouth. But, please don’t rush in Lynton & Lynmouth as you might miss a unique experience. In the heart of Exmoor National Park, the twin villages are far from industry and commerce. So, take time to look closer, for Lynton -Lynmouth boasts an impressive history. You get the chance to visit historic houses, to see the red deer and the wild Exmoor ponies.

Make the first step and start planning

Even if it’s hard to believe it sometimes, there are still beautiful places to discover and wonderful people to meet…just get out of the house, they’re waiting for you.

See you in the next post!