Top South Devon Events & Activites for Spring & Easter 2018

While summer is our busiest season here in Devon, spring remains the secret favourite for a lot of us. Why exactly? Well, not only is spring awash with regional events and attractions waking up again, it still tends to be peaceful and quiet. Here’s our quick guide to what’s on in South Devon this spring and Easter, from food highlights to family days out.

Beautiful Devon gardens and spring walks on Dartmoor

Who doesn’t enjoy some fresh air and spectacular scenery as the days get brighter? If you like things wild and craggy, Dartmoor is a must, with fresh colours and wildlife out in force. Hexworthy and Bellever are both nice areas to bring a picnic and watch the River Dart flow past; or If you are feeling especially brave you could try a longer walk or even climb one of the tors. Loads of ideas on https://www.visitdartmoor.co.uk/

If it’s a shorter stroll in more refined surroundings you prefer though, there are also plenty of beautiful stately homes and gardens to visit. National Trust Greenway is always splendid in spring, and not too far from us. A special Spring Flower Walk runs from now right until the end of April, offering expert insight from a guide. Or see the events section for a whole range of stimulating workshops and day courses: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greenway

Family Events & Easter Activities

 There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to kids activities and family days out over the Easter Weekend for 2018. There are more Easter Egg hunts in Devon for 2018 than you could shake a bunny at in fact. But where are the best of them?

For sheer all ages entertainment value, Pennywell Farm is a good bet. Easter Weekend itself lets kids bottle-feed lambs, go pond dipping and more (click here). Meanwhile, there are loads of live entertainers and travelling talents throughout March and April: Poco Drom (various dates including all Easter Weekend) puts a smile on young and old faces with musical routines, while other stars include Britain’s Got Talent finalist Mr Phil, and Elfic the Jester. See Pennywell’s Event listings for more here: https://www.pennywellfarm.co.uk/news/events-calendar/list/

Elsewhere, there’s an Easter Egg Trail and plenty of seasonal fun at Babbacombe Model Village from 29^th March-15^th April, while Dinosaur Quest at Kents Cavern puts a welcome roar into proceedings with special activities in the caves, also throughout almost  the whole Easter school holidays (30^th March to 15^th April).  

Art & Heritage Exhibitions

Admittedly, many visitors come to Devon to escape from culture, rather than seeking it out. But if the visual arts and history are your thing, you may be pleasantly surprised with what you find. There's plenty on in March and April 2018 in fact.

For those with a taste for forgotten history, The Lost City of Z (until April 28^th) is certainly an intriguing find at Torquay Museum. Detailing Devon adventurer Colonel Percy Fawcett’s journey into the Amazon jungle, it brings to light a fascinating journey through stories and artifacts. Of course, modern audiences may know some details already from the movie adaptation released quite recently.

Exeter’s RAMM Museum (above) is another good bet, with not one but two great seasonal art exhibitions to enjoy currently. If you’re quick, The “Dartmoor: A Wild and Wonderous Region” special runs till April 1^st, with a fantastically eclectic range of work. Exeter’s Fine Art: Modern continues until 29^th Apri too though, showing rare British Pop Art. Meanwhile, the collection also has plenty for kids to see and do, giving cultured parents a good alibi to ogle the fantastic displays here. See https://www.rammuseum.org.uk/

Spring and Easter events for grownups

For some more grownup thrills this Easter, head for the turf (Image: Newton Abbot Racecourse Facebook)

Should you be looking for some more grown up fun, there are of course plenty of other options to enjoy this spring in Devon. Horse Racing at Newton Abbot is always a thrilling day out, whether you’re a turf fanatic or a complete newcomer. Click here for a complete line up of spring racing days, including a special Easter Sunday meeting.

Or should you fancy taking part in crafting workshops, live music or various other events, Torre Abbey is perhaps the pick of South Devon venues for spring. From art fairs to classical concerts to crafting sessions, there’s a lot to keep an eye out for here: https://www.torre-abbey.org.uk/whats-on/  

Self-Catering Spring and Easter Breaks at Long Barn, Devon: Our latest offers

With so much to see and experience this spring in Devon, why not treat yourself to one of our self catering breaks? You couldn't wish for a more peaceful location to spend the Easter Holidays. Take a look at our selection of cottages and current special offers to find the pefect option for your needs. From family lodges for up to thirteen guests, through to cosy holiday lets for two, we have just the accommodation for you! Currently we are offering a special spring discount of 20% off all bookings on three of our cottages if you book before the end of April 2018!