Devon holiday cottages

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.

537 holiday cottages in Devon

6 Island Place (Beachstone)

Salcombe, South Devon

6 3
£1,343 to £1,876 per week

1 The Lanterns

Hope Cove, South Devon

4 2 Pet friendly
£843 to £2,150 per week

2 Island Place (Harbour Lights)

Salcombe, South Devon

4 2
£1,051 to £2,600 per week

3 Island Place (Saltstone)

Salcombe, South Devon

6 3 Pet friendly
£1,302 to £3,212 per week

4 Island Place

Salcombe, South Devon

6 3 Pet friendly
£1,302 to £3,212 per week

4 Sandhills House

Salcombe, South Devon

6 3
£1,051 to £2,600 per week

5 The Lanterns

Hope Cove, South Devon

6 3 Pet friendly
£1,091 to £2,893 per week

Ashleigh

Hope Cove, South Devon

10 5 Pet friendly
£2,075 to £5,019 per week

Auton Court

Kingsbridge, South Devon

9 4 Pet friendly
£1,562 to £3,753 per week

Auton Court Stable

Kingsbridge, South Devon

2 1 Pet friendly
£595 to £895 per week

Bamboo House

Salcombe, South Devon

4 2
£1,675 to £4,029 per week

Bantham Retreat

Thurlestone, South Devon

6 3
£4,200 to £7,800 per week

Explore Devon

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.

Beaches and coastlines

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.

National parks and countryside

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.

Towns and villages

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.

Food and drink

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.

Family-friendly breaks

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.

When to visit Devon

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.

Travelling to Devon

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.

Frequently asked questions

Devon has it all — cosy thatched cottages, seaside apartments with a view, converted barns in the countryside, eco homes and big houses made for group get-togethers. Most are self-catering, so you can settle in and make yourself at home.

Love surfing and wide sandy beaches? Head north. Prefer calm coves and sailing towns like Salcombe or Dartmouth? South Devon could be the one. If you’re after moorland walks and wild ponies, Dartmoor or Exmoor won’t disappoint.

Yes, plenty. From cottages with enclosed gardens to apartments near dog-friendly beaches, you’ll find lots of options that welcome four-legged guests. Always check the listing details for any limits on pets before booking.

Definitely. Devon has loads of larger holiday homes — think converted barns, farmhouses or coastal houses with room for everyone. Many come with extras like hot tubs, games rooms or big gardens, perfect for a celebration.

A proper kitchen is the main thing — usually with oven, hob, fridge and all the basics you’ll need. Most places also include bedding, towels and Wi-Fi. Some throw in little extras like barbecues or outdoor dining spots.

Absolutely. Kids love the beaches, rock pools and boat trips, while parents get plenty of choice for days out — steam trains, castles, adventure parks and walks. Staying in a cottage gives you space, flexibility and a base to relax in after busy days.

Summer is the busiest, with beach weather and festivals. Spring and autumn bring milder weather, fewer crowds and great walking. Winter has its own charm — dramatic coastlines, quieter towns and cosy evenings by the fire.

A car makes it easier, especially for rural cottages. But you can still get here by train (Exeter, Plymouth and branch lines to the coast) or coach from big UK cities. Once in Devon, buses and taxis cover local journeys.

Yes — properties listed through established agencies are checked to meet set standards. That means what you see in the description should match what you find when you arrive. Recent reviews are also a good sign.

It’s all about space and freedom. With a cottage you can cook when you like, spread out, and feel at home. In Devon, many are full of character and put you close to beaches, moors or towns — the kind of setting hotels can’t always offer.

Trusted holiday cottages in Devon

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.