Why Devon Tops the List for UK Toddler Holidays
Devon combines two things that make it extraordinary for families with toddlers: some of England’s finest beaches — with gentle gradients, clean water and seasonal lifeguard cover — and a countryside rich enough in farms, wildlife and green space to fill an entire week away from the beach entirely. The cream tea culture means family-friendly cafés are everywhere, and the county’s food scene has matured to where farm-to-table restaurants routinely offer children’s plates that go far beyond fish fingers.
For families based in Ireland or mainland Europe, Devon is 90 minutes by plane to Exeter, or accessible via the Brittany Ferries Roscoff–Plymouth route — an adventure in itself for toddlers who love boats.
Top Toddler Friendly Hotels in Devon
South Sands Hotel, Salcombe
South Sands sits directly above a south-facing sandy beach that is about as close to a perfect toddler beach as exists in England. The hotel provides high-quality wooden travel cots, family rooms with interconnecting doors, and a children’s menu at its beachfront restaurant. The beach has calm, clear water and a seasonal beach café that runs ice cream all summer.
Saunton Sands Hotel
Overlooking the three-mile stretch of Saunton Sands beach, this hotel is a Devon institution. The indoor pool, extensive gardens and proximity to the beach make it work in any weather. Children’s teas, a games room and a family lounge distinguish it from the generic seaside hotel model.
The Pig at Combe, East Devon
For families who want countryside over coast, The Pig at Combe in the Otter Valley delivers a farm-kitchen experience in a beautiful manor setting. The hotel’s walled kitchen garden, foraging walks and collection of rescued animals are extraordinary for toddler engagement. Cots and family rooms available; babysitting on request.
Bovey Castle, Dartmoor
A luxury country estate on the edge of Dartmoor, Bovey Castle offers family suites, a spa, an indoor pool and extensive grounds with a nature trail suitable for buggies. The hotel’s Highland cattle and Dartmoor ponies in the grounds are a guaranteed toddler hit.
Devon’s Best Toddler Beaches
• Saunton Sands: Three miles, flat, lifeguarded — one of England’s finest.
• Blackpool Sands (near Dartmouth): Private beach with turquoise water, a beach café and extremely calm conditions.
• Burgh Island Tidal Beach: A short drive from Bigbury-on-Sea; unique island experience at low tide.
• Broadsands, Torbay: Extremely calm, very shallow, sand castle paradise.
Rainy Day Devon Activities for Toddlers
Devon averages 1,050mm of rain per year — above the UK average. A good family hotel will have an indoor pool or play area. Beyond the hotel, Crealy Adventure Park (near Exeter), Woodlands Theme Park (South Hams) and the National Marine Aquarium (Plymouth) are excellent wet-weather options.
Find family-rated, toddler-friendly Devon hotels with indoor facilities at impt.io.
