Riverside Cottage

Devon is the largest county in the South-West and the third largest in England.  Uniquely for Britain, Devon has two coastlines – the North Coast facing the Bristol Channel and the South Coast facing the English Channel.  Exeter is the county town, with Plymouth being the biggest city.

 

Riverside Cottage is close to Dartmoor National Park which forms 14% of the county and Exmoor National Park forming a further 3% and a mere 5 minutes cycle and 10 minutes walk to the famous Tarka Trail a close enough proximity even for those of us who simply just want a short stroll.

 

There are few places in Britain that can lay claim to such a wonderful combination of stunning landscapes. A coastline of spectacular cliffs, secret coves and golden beaches together with a hinterland of wild moorland, sparkling river valleys and lush rolling hills makes North Devon and Exmoor a very special place.

 

UNESCO recently gave world-wide acknowledgement to the North Devon landscape by designating it as the UK’s first new-style Biosphere Reserve – an area of international importance because of its diversity and abundance of rare plants and continuous human use from ancient times.

 

There are varied opportunities for outdoor activities – walking, horse-riding, cycling, golf or take to the water and enjoy surfing, fishing, windsurfing, sailing or a simple boat trip.

 

Countryside and coastal areas can be enjoyed via extensive walking and cycling trails including the Tarka and Ruby Trails.

 

There are over 30 tourist attractions and a diverse programme of events and festivals throughout the year.

 

Town and village centres and local markets give the region a distinctive flavour with the variety of food, drink and arts and crafts.

 

Main centres are Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, Bideford, Westward Ho!, Croyde, Lynton & Lynmouth, South Molton, Torrington, Holsworthy, Combe Martin and Lundy Island.

 

National Trust properties at Arlington Court and Castle Drogo and RHS Gardens at Rosemoor are also within a short drive.