Towns in Devon, UK: Coastal Towns, Seaside Resorts and Best Places to Visit

Visitors searching for towns in Devon will discover everything from bustling seaside resorts and working fishing ports to historic cathedral cities and rural market towns, making Devon one of England’s top holiday destinations.

Devon is home to two cities, around 80 towns and over 400 villages and hamlets, making it one of the most interesting counties to visit in England. Located in South West England between Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, the county combines sandy beaches, dramatic coastlines, historic settlements, market towns and two national parks within a relatively compact area.

Some destinations are known for surfing and beaches, others for maritime heritage, independent shops, countryside walks or easy access to the coast. Whether you are planning a holiday, researching places to visit or simply wondering what towns are in Devon, there is no shortage of places to explore.

From Exeter and Plymouth to Exmouth, Sidmouth, Torquay and Barnstaple, this guide introduces Devon’s principal towns and cities while highlighting some of the county’s most popular visitor destinations. It also serves as a hub, linking to more detailed guides across ThisIsSouthWest.com, a growing travel guide to the South West of England.

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Where Is Devon in England?

Devon is located in South West England and is bordered by Cornwall to the west, Somerset to the north east and Dorset to the east. The county is bordered by coastline on two sides and is the only county with two separate coastlines, the Bristol Channel to the north and the English Channel to the south.

The county is perhaps best known for the English Riviera around Torbay, the Jurassic Coast in East Devon, the surfing beaches of North Devon and the landscapes of Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park. These dramatic and different landscapes help explain why Devon remains one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.

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How Many Cities and Towns Are in Devon?

Devon has two cities, around 80 towns and hundreds of villages spread across the county.

The county is commonly divided into five geographical areas:

• East Devon
• South Devon
• North Devon
• Mid Devon
• West Devon

Each area has its own character. East Devon is known for the Jurassic Coast and seaside resorts; South Devon for sailing towns and family attractions; North Devon for surfing beaches and dramatic cliffs; Mid Devon for rolling countryside and market towns; and West Devon for Dartmoor landscapes and historic settlements.

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Cities in Devon

Devon’s two cities, Exeter and Plymouth, are very different in character, but both play important roles in the county’s history, economy and tourism.

Exeter

Exeter is Devon’s historic county city and one of the oldest settlements in England. Founded by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago, it remains the cultural and administrative heart of Devon.

The city’s most recognisable landmark is Exeter Cathedral, famous for its medieval architecture and impressive vaulted ceiling. Other highlights include the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), the Underground Passages, Northernhay Gardens, and the historic Quayside, where visitors can walk along the Exeter Ship Canal and Exe Estuary Trail, hire bikes, or enjoy waterside cafés.

Exeter is one of the best-connected places in Devon because it is at the centre of the county’s transport network, making it easy to reach from across the South West and the rest of the UK.

By rail, Exeter is served by two main stations, Exeter St Davids and Exeter Central, with direct trains to London, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Plymouth, Torbay and Cornwall. It is the main rail hub for Devon, with several branch lines connecting coastal destinations including Exmouth, Paignton, Barnstaple and Okehampton.

By road, Exeter is at the end of the M5 motorway and is linked to Cornwall via the A30 and A38, North Devon via the A377 and A361, and East Devon and Dorset via the A30 and A35.

For air travellers, Exeter Airport provides domestic and international flights, offering connections to destinations across the UK and Europe.

Plymouth

Plymouth is Devon’s largest city and one of Britain’s most important maritime centres. Located on the south coast near the Cornwall border, the city is closely associated with naval history, exploration and the Mayflower voyage of 1620. Today, Plymouth remains at the heart of the Royal Navy, with nearby Devonport Naval Base serving as the largest naval base in Western Europe and home to a significant part of the UK’s naval fleet.

Plymouth Hoe is the city’s best-known landmark, offering panoramic views across Plymouth Sound. Nearby, the historic Barbican features cobbled streets, independent shops, galleries and historic buildings connected with the city’s seafaring past.

Other attractions include the National Marine Aquarium, Royal William Yard, Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse and boat trips around Plymouth Sound. We particularly enjoy the Cremyll Ferry, which takes you over the Tamar to the beautiful Mount Edgcumbe Estate. It is also possible to take a boat to Cawsand and Kingsand, picturesque Cornish villages on the Rame peninsula. Visitors can also see Royal Navy vessels operating in and around the harbour, reflecting Plymouth’s continuing importance as a major naval city. The city serves as a gateway to South Devon, Dartmoor and Cornwall.

Together, Exeter and Plymouth provide two very different city experiences, one centred on history and heritage, the other on maritime culture, naval tradition and waterfront attractions.

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Major Towns in Devon by Population

East Devon

East Devon stretches from Exeter to the Dorset border and includes Exmouth, Topsham, Sidmouth, Honiton, Seaton and Budleigh Salterton. The area is known for its red sandstone cliffs, Jurassic Coast scenery, seaside resorts, and attractive villages, including Beer, Branscombe, Lympstone, and East Budleigh.

Exmouth – Approximate population 36,000. At the mouth of the River Exe, Exmouth is best known for its long sandy beach, watersports and as the gateway to the Jurassic Coast.

Sidmouth – Approximate population 13,000. On the Jurassic Coast, Sidmouth is best known for its Regency architecture, Folk Festival and dramatic red cliffs.

Honiton – Approximate population 12,000. In the heart of East Devon, Honiton is best known for its lace-making heritage, antiques trade and regular markets.

Seaton – Approximate population 8,000. Close to the Dorset border, Seaton is best known for the Seaton Tramway, Wetlands Nature Reserve and Jurassic Coast setting.

Axminster – Approximate population 6,000. Near the Dorset border, Axminster is best known for its carpet-making heritage and direct railway to London.

Budleigh Salterton – Approximate population 5,000. On the East Devon coast, Budleigh Salterton is best known for its pebble beach and the Otter Estuary.

Ottery St Mary – Approximate population 5,000. Inland in East Devon, Ottery St Mary is best known for its famous Tar Barrels tradition.

Topsham – Approximate population 4,800. On the River Exe estuary just south of Exeter, Topsham is best known for its elegant Dutch-style houses, independent shops, waterside pubs and restaurants, and excellent walking and cycling along the Exe Estuary Trail.

Colyton – Approximate population 2,300. In the Axe Valley, Colyton is best known for the Seaton Tramway and its attractive historic centre.

South Devon

South Devon includes Dawlish and Dawlish Warren, Teignmouth, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth, Totnes, Kingsbridge, Salcombe and Newton Abbot. Visitors come for beaches, estuaries, seafood, coastal walks and the English Riviera.

Torquay – Approximate population 65,000. On the English Riviera, Torquay is best known for its marina, beaches, palm trees and links to Agatha Christie.

Paignton – Approximate population 50,000. Part of Torbay, Paignton is best known for its sandy beach, pier, zoo and Dartmouth Steam Railway.

Plympton – Approximate population 30,000. On the eastern edge of Plymouth, Plympton is best known for its historic Stannary town heritage and the remains of a Norman castle.

Newton Abbot – Approximate population 26,000. Between Exeter and Torbay, Newton Abbot is best known for its racecourse, markets and transport links.

Brixham – Approximate population 17,000. Part of Torbay, Brixham is best known for its busy fishing harbour, seafood restaurants and maritime heritage.

Teignmouth – Approximate population 15,000. At the mouth of the River Teign, Teignmouth is best known for its sandy beach, Victorian pier and working port.

Dawlish – Approximate population 14,000. On the South Devon coast, Dawlish is best known for its black swans and spectacular railway running alongside the sea wall.

Ivybridge – Approximate population 13,000. On the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park, Ivybridge is best known as a gateway to the moor, outdoor activities and the scenic River Erme.

Totnes – Approximate population 8,000. On the River Dart, Totnes is best known for its Norman castle, independent shops and creative atmosphere.

Bovey Tracey – Approximate population 8,000. On the eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Tracey is best known as the Gateway to Dartmoor and for the popular House of Marbles visitor attraction.

Kingsbridge – Approximate population 6,000. In the South Hams, Kingsbridge is best known for its estuary setting and proximity to Salcombe.

Dartmouth – Approximate population 5,500. On the River Dart, Dartmouth is best known for Britannia Royal Naval College, the Royal Regatta and its beautiful waterfront.

Ashburton – Approximate population 3,800. On the southern edge of Dartmoor, Ashburton is best known for its antiques shops and independent businesses.

Salcombe – Approximate population 2,000. On the Kingsbridge Estuary, Salcombe is best known for sailing, watersports and spectacular estuary scenery.

North Devon

North Devon includes Barnstaple, Bideford, Ilfracombe and South Molton. The area is famous for its surfing beaches, rugged cliffs, Exmoor scenery, and villages such as Appledore, Clovelly, and Croyde.

Barnstaple – Approximate population 25,000. On the River Taw, Barnstaple is best known for its pannier market, Long Bridge and as the gateway to North Devon.

Bideford – Approximate population 17,000. On the River Torridge, Bideford is best known for its historic port, the medieval Long Bridge, and its access to Lundy Island.

Ilfracombe – Approximate population 11,000. On the North Devon coast, Ilfracombe is best known for its historic harbour, Verity sculpture and boat trips.

Great Torrington – Approximate population 6,000. In North Devon overlooking the River Torridge, Great Torrington is best known for its Civil War history, the RHS Garden Rosemoor and access to the Tarka Trail.

South Molton – Approximate population 5,000. Close to Exmoor National Park, South Molton is best known for its pannier market and its rural market-town character.

Holsworthy – Approximate population 2,800. In north-west Devon, near the Cornwall border, Holsworthy is best known for its livestock market and agricultural heritage.

Mid Devon

Mid Devon is centred on Tiverton, Crediton and Cullompton. The area is largely rural and is known for countryside walks, canals, market towns and traditional Devon landscapes.

Tiverton – Approximate population 22,000. In Mid Devon, Tiverton is best known for its castle, the Grand Western Canal, and market-town heritage.

Cullompton – Approximate population 9,000. In Mid Devon, between Exeter and Tiverton, Cullompton is best known for its market-town heritage, the nearby Blackdown Hills, and excellent access to the M5 motorway.

Crediton – Approximate population 7,800. West of Exeter, Crediton is best known as the birthplace of Saint Boniface and for its historic market town character.

Bampton – Approximate population 1,700. On the edge of Exmoor National Park in Mid Devon, Bampton is best known for its attractive Georgian streets, thriving market-town character, annual Fair and Folk Festival, and its role as a gateway to Exmoor and the upper Exe Valley.

West Devon

West Devon includes Tavistock, Okehampton and Chagford, all of which provide excellent access to Dartmoor National Park. The area has a rich mining history and some of Devon’s finest walking country.

Tavistock – Approximate population 13,000. On the western edge of Dartmoor, Tavistock is best known for its pannier market, mining heritage and UNESCO World Heritage status.

Okehampton – Approximate population 8,500. On the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park, Okehampton is best known as a gateway to Dartmoor, its castle and newly restored railway links.

Chagford – Approximate population 1,500. Within Dartmoor National Park, Chagford is best known for its historic status as a stannary town and excellent walking opportunities.

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Devon Towns A to Z

Devon contains dozens of towns and villages, ranging from bustling seaside resorts and historic market towns to quiet fishing communities and rural settlements. The following A-to-Z includes many of the county’s best-known destinations.

A

Ashburton – Historic market town on the southern edge of Dartmoor.

Axminster – Market town near the Devon-Dorset border, famous for its carpet-making heritage.

B

Bampton – Historic market town on the edge of Exmoor National Park.

Barnstaple – North Devon’s largest town and commercial centre.

Bideford – Historic port town on the River Torridge.

Bovey Tracey – Gateway to Dartmoor National Park.

Brixham – Working fishing port and popular visitor destination.

Budleigh Salterton – An elegant East Devon seaside town.

C

Chagford – Attractive Dartmoor market town.

Colyton – Historic town close to the Seaton Tramway.

Crediton – Ancient market town and birthplace of Saint Boniface.

Cullompton – Historic Mid Devon market town with excellent access to Exeter and the Blackdown Hills.

D

Dartmouth – Historic riverside town on the River Dart.

Dawlish – Seaside town famous for its black swans and railway seafront.

E

Exeter – Devon’s historic cathedral city.

Exmouth – East Devon’s largest seaside town.

G

Great Torrington – Historic hilltop market town overlooking the River Torridge, close to RHS Garden Rosemoor.

H

Holsworthy – Traditional market town in north west Devon, known for its agricultural heritage and livestock market.

Honiton – Market town known for lace-making and antiques.

I

Ilfracombe – Harbour town surrounded by dramatic North Devon scenery.

Ivybridge – Gateway to southern Dartmoor, popular for walking, cycling and outdoor activities.

K

Kingsbridge – South Hams market town close to Salcombe.

L

Lynton – Cliff-top town overlooking the Bristol Channel.

N

Newton Abbot – Important South Devon market town and transport hub.

O

Okehampton – Northern gateway to Dartmoor National Park.

Ottery St Mary – Historic town famous for its annual Tar Barrels event.

P

Paignton – Family-friendly seaside resort in Torbay.

Plympton – Historic town on the eastern edge of Plymouth.

S

Salcombe – Popular sailing destination and estuary town.

Seaton – Gateway to the eastern Jurassic Coast.

Sidmouth – Regency seaside town and home of the Sidmouth Folk Festival.

South Molton – Traditional North Devon market town.

T

Tavistock – Historic market town on the edge of Dartmoor.

Teignmouth – Traditional seaside resort on the Teign Estuary.

Tiverton – Mid Devon’s principal town.

Torquay – The largest resort on the English Riviera.

Topsham – Historic estuary town on the River Exe, famous for its waterside pubs, independent shops and excellent restaurants.

Totnes – Historic market town on the River Dart.

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Devon Towns and Cities Frequently Asked Questions

What towns are there in Devon?

Devon has dozens of towns, including Exmouth, Sidmouth, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Barnstaple, Honiton, Tiverton, Dartmouth, Tavistock, Totnes, Bideford and Newton Abbot. These range from coastal resorts and fishing ports to inland market towns and historic settlements.

What are the major towns in Devon?

The major towns in Devon include Torquay, Paignton, Exmouth, Newton Abbot, Barnstaple, Tiverton, Bideford, Honiton, Tavistock and Totnes. Many act as important tourism, shopping and transport centres for their part of the county.

What are the two cities in Devon?

Devon has two cities: Exeter and Plymouth. Exeter is the historic county city and cathedral city, while Plymouth is Devon’s largest city and one of Britain’s most important maritime centres.

How many towns are in Devon?

There is no single fixed number, but Devon contains dozens of recognised towns and hundreds of villages across East Devon, South Devon, North Devon, Mid Devon and West Devon.

What towns are on the Devon coast?

Coastal towns in Devon include Exmouth, Sidmouth, Seaton, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth, Salcombe, Teignmouth, Dawlish, Ilfracombe and Bideford. Devon also has many smaller coastal villages, including Beer, Appledore, Lynmouth and Combe Martin.

Which is the nicest town in Devon?

Opinions vary, but Dartmouth, Salcombe, Sidmouth, Topsham, Totnes and Tavistock are often regarded as some of the nicest towns in Devon because of their scenery, historic streets, independent shops and visitor appeal.

Which Devon town has the best beaches?

Exmouth, Paignton, Torquay, Teignmouth and Dawlish are among the best towns in Devon for beach holidays. Exmouth boasts around two miles of sandy beach, while Paignton and Torquay offer family-friendly resorts with excellent seaside facilities. For visitors prepared to venture beyond the towns, villages such as Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton are also renowned for their outstanding beaches.

Which Devon town is best for families?

Paignton, Exmouth, Torquay, Dawlish and Seaton are among the best towns in Devon for families, combining beaches, attractions, accommodation, places to eat and plenty of traditional seaside facilities. Nearby villages such as Woolacombe also make excellent family holiday destinations.

Which towns in Devon are best for visitors?

Exmouth, Sidmouth, Dartmouth, Brixham, Tavistock, Totnes, Torquay, Topsham and Barnstaple are among the best towns in Devon for visitors. Each offers a different combination of coast, countryside, history, food, shopping and easy access to nearby attractions.

What are the best coastal towns in Devon?

Some of the best coastal towns in Devon include Exmouth, Sidmouth, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth, Salcombe, Teignmouth, Dawlish, Seaton and Ilfracombe. Devon also has many beautiful coastal villages, including Beer, Appledore, Lynmouth and Combe Martin, which are well worth exploring.

Which is the best town to stay in Devon?

That depends on the type of holiday you are planning. Exmouth and Paignton are excellent for family beach holidays, Dartmouth and Salcombe are ideal for sailing and estuary scenery, Sidmouth offers a relaxed Jurassic Coast setting, while Exeter provides the best transport links for exploring the county without a car.

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Why Visit Devon, UK

Devon is one of England’s most varied counties, combining historic cities, seaside resorts, market towns, fishing harbours, sandy beaches and two national parks. Uniquely, it is the only county in England with two separate coastlines, facing both the Bristol Channel and the English Channel.

Whether you’re planning a beach holiday, a walking break on Dartmoor or a family getaway by the sea, Devon offers something for everyone. Highlights include the surfing beaches of North Devon, the Jurassic Coast, Dartmoor, Exmoor and beautiful landscapes such as Woodbury Common.

The county is easy to explore by road and public transport, with rail links to Exeter, Plymouth and many coastal towns, as well as scenic walking and cycling routes, including the South West Coast Path and Tarka Trail. From Exeter and Plymouth to Exmouth, Dartmouth and Salcombe, this guide is the perfect starting point for discovering Devon’s towns, attractions and coastline.

One word of caution: Devon is larger than many visitors expect. While it is certainly possible to combine visits to East and South Devon during the same holiday, North Devon often deserves a stay in its own right. If time is limited, it may be better to combine it with North Somerset, Exmoor, or North Cornwall rather than trying to see the whole county in a single trip.

Planning a Holiday in Devon

If you are planning a trip to Devon, it is worth comparing accommodation, transport and visitor reviews before booking. From seaside hotels and holiday cottages to campsites and luxury retreats, the county offers options for every budget.

We often use Tripadvisor to compare attractions, restaurants and accommodation, while Booking.com is useful for its wide choice of hotels and flexible booking options. Vrbo is worth considering for self-catering holidays, and Omio can help compare and book rail and coach travel.

Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer holiday, taking a little time to compare options can help you find the best base for exploring Devon.

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Helpful Links for Visiting Devon, England

• Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
• Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
• Expedia – good for flights and packages.
• GetYourGuide – find and book things to see. Includes unusual things to do.
• Hostelworld – Hostel-focused booking platform that fosters backpack connections.
• MetOffice – Weather forecasts from the UK’s official meteorological office.
• National Express – UK-based coach operator providing long-distance bus services
• Omio – Book travel tickets by comparing trains, buses and planes in one search.
• Rental Cars – to search out and book hire cars.
• Rome2Rio – Great for comparing local transport options (and for locating bus stops).
• Ticketmaster – What’s On – Major Events – Venues – Bookings
• Trainline.com – our go-to online platform for booking train and bus tickets, offering route planning, price comparisons, seat reservations, and ticket sales.
• Traffic England – for live traffic updates on major roads.
• Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
• TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
• Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.

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Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.