Holiday cottages in Devon open the door to one of the UK’s most varied counties, where two coastlines meet rolling hills, rivers and national parks. From long sandy beaches in the north to sheltered coves in the south, Devon is equally suited to family seaside holidays, walking breaks and relaxed escapes in picture-postcard villages. Alongside the scenery, you’ll find historic towns, local markets and a food scene built on fresh produce and seafood.
With thousands of visitors choosing Devon every year, self-catering cottages remain the most flexible way to explore at your own pace. Every property featured here is offered through a trusted agency partner and inspected to high standards, giving you peace of mind as well as choice. Whether you’re after a coastal apartment, a countryside barn or a thatched cottage for two, Devon has places to stay that match every season and style of holiday.
Holiday cottages in Devon give you the freedom to enjoy one of England’s most diverse and beautiful counties. With two coastlines, two national parks and a wealth of characterful towns and villages, Devon is as popular for active breaks as it is for lazy weeks by the sea. Staying in self-catering accommodation means you can set your own pace, whether that’s early morning walks on Dartmoor, afternoons at the beach or evenings in a cosy cottage by a roaring fire.
Devon is unique in offering both a north and south coast, each with its own appeal. The north is famous for its wide sandy beaches and surf spots such as Croyde and Woolacombe, while the south offers gentler coves, sailing harbours and the sheltered waters of the South Hams. From dramatic cliffs on the South West Coast Path to quiet fishing villages, like Torcross and Beesands, tucked away from the crowds, there is no shortage of seaside settings to explore from your holiday home.
Inland, Devon’s landscapes are just as varied. Dartmoor and Exmoor are both national parks, known for open moorland, granite tors and abundant wildlife. Walkers can explore miles of trails, while cyclists, horse riders and nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. Many cottages are located in rural settings where you can step straight out into the countryside, combining comfort with easy access to some of the UK’s best walking country.
Part of the appeal of booking accommodation in Devon is discovering its mix of towns and villages. Salcombe and Dartmouth attract celebrities, sailors and foodies, while towns like Modbury and Kingsbridge offer a more relaxed pace of life with easy access to the region’s best beaches. Further inland, market towns such as Tavistock and Totnes are full of history, independent shops and weekly markets. Choosing a self-catering base lets you experience these communities at your own rhythm, with space to relax after a day out exploring.
Self-catering cottages in Devon give you the chance to enjoy the county’s food at its best. Local markets, farm shops and fishing harbours mean fresh ingredients are always close by. Devon is also known for its seafood, artisan producers and, of course, cream teas. Whether you cook in your cottage, eat out in a pub or sample fine dining by the water, food is a central part of a holiday here.
Families are well catered for in Devon, with attractions ranging from sandy beaches and amazing Dartmoor tors to steam railways and adventure parks. While most visitors love soaking up the abundant natural beauty on offer, families can break up their week with visits to the likes of Woodlands Leisure Park, The National Marine Aquarium, Pennywell Farm, Splashdown Water Park or Crealy Theme Park, to name just a few of the big local attractions.
The county is large enough to offer plenty of variety yet compact enough that day trips are easy. Many cottages come with family-friendly features such as gardens, games rooms or space for bikes, making them a practical choice for parents who want flexibility as well as comfort.
Devon has something to offer in every season. Summer is ideal for beach days and sailing regattas, spring and autumn are perfect for quieter walking breaks, and winter brings dramatic coastal scenery and welcoming pubs with open fires. With a wide choice of inspected holiday cottages across the county, you can find accommodation that suits both the time of year and the style of holiday you have in mind.
Reaching Devon is straightforward, with major routes such as the M5 and A38 linking the county to the rest of the UK. The best way to visit is by car, giving you the freedom to explore the region once you get here. However, regular train services connect Exeter, Plymouth and other towns to London and the Midlands, while local branch lines and bus services make it easy to travel onward to the coast. This good transport network means your chosen holiday cottage is never far away, whether you arrive by car or public transport.
Secure bookings with trusted agency partners
Every cottage inspected to high standards
Hand-picked listings to help you find the right stay
Lime Cottages only works with established holiday cottage agencies, so every booking is secure and professionally managed. All cottages are inspected to high standards by our partners, and we simply bring together the best options to make your search easier. You’ll book directly with the agency, and we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.