7 unusual things to do in Devon this summer

Are you craving a holiday experience that goes beyond the predictable beach days and tourist attractions? Something unique that will give you brilliant memories and top tales to tell your mates back home? Well, you need to find some of the more unusual things to do in Devon.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered! Here’s some of the quirky and cool activities to do in Devon this summer:

1. Go llama trekking 

Explore Devon’s dramatic coastline and areas of outstanding natural beauty with a new friend. Llama trekking gives you the opportunity to walk with these friendly and gentle animals. They are easy to handle and make great hiking companions in Devon’s peaceful countryside.

Find out more about walking with llamas in Devon.

Here’s some more ideas for escaping the crowds in Devon.

2. Become a giant

Feel 100ft tall at Babbacombe Model Village near Torquay where you can walk among more than 13,000 little people going about their every day lives. Well, some are in the Eastenders set and others are dressed as super heroes. But there’s plenty of faithfully recreated miniature British scenes in-between.

You could spend a few hours marvelling at Babbacombe’s models. And if you want to extend your extraordinary day out in Devon you can have a ride on the cliff railway nearby.

Find out more about visiting Babbacombe Model Village and Babbacombe Cliff Railway.

3. Become a falconer

Devon has lots of places where you can see falconry shows, including Woodlands Family Theme Park near Dartmouth. But have you ever fancied being a bird trainer yourself?

For the ultimate falconry experience go on a hawk walk during which you will learn all about these incredible birds and what makes them tick. You’ll also get hands on and fly a hawk for the ultimate unusual thing to do in Devon.

Find out more about hawk walks in Devon.

4. Ride a sea tractor

One of the most unique things to do in Devon – you can’t do it anywhere else in the world – is to ride the hydraulic sea tractor to Burgh Island. The tractor is one of a kind and was designed in 1969 by Robert Jackson CBE, who was a pioneer of the nuclear power station programme in the 1950s.

You don’t need to stay on Burgh Island to hop on the tractor – it runs for members of the public too. For £2 you can ride across the tidal beach and walk around this rugged island to see plenty of wildlife and interesting flora and fauna.

5. Bet on racing pigs

This is an experience in Devon that will have you and the kids laughing out loud. No money exchanges hands during pig racing at Pennywell Farm but the animals are always excited to compete. Pick your favourite and cheer them on as they trot around their specially designed course.

This Devon attraction is open in 2020 with restrictions on a few activities. Sadly there’s no cuddles with miniature pigs or other farm animals this season. But you can still feed the goats and deer, ride the train and use the play areas. One way systems are in place.

Find out more and book a day out at Pennywell Farm.

Here’s more Devon attractions open this summer.

6. Tackle Dartmoor’s greatest challenges

Why walk in Dartmoor National Park when you can climb it? Get your adrenaline pumping by climbing up and abseiling down Dartmoor’s iconic tors under expert instruction. There are climbing, abseiling and courses available for individuals and families of all ages.

Explore Dartmoor differently and book an abseiling or climbing day.

7. Get muddy

For an outdoor adventure where staying clean is not an option book a session at The Bear Trail in Cullompton.

It has 30 obstacles to tackle including mud slides, tunnels, wobbly bridges and zip wires. 

Find out more and book a session at The Bear Trail.

Unusual days out in Devon

So, if you prefer off the beaten track holiday activities we hope this post has given you plenty of inspiration for unusual things to do in Devon. 

For more Devon days out, recommended beaches and things to do in Devon this summer, check out our blog.

Where to stay in Devon

We have a range of holiday cottages in South Devon from romanic boltholes to large family holiday homes where you can recuperate after busy days exploring Devon. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Give us a call – our team know the ins and outs of every cottage.