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A driving licence opens up the whole country for exploration, and autumn can be a fantastic time to see some of the best of it. If you plan on taking a trip after all the schools have gone back, then Devon offers plenty of sights and attractions. Go before the end of October and all of the attractions will still be in operation, but if these don’t grab you, there is still a lot to see and do.
Farmers’ Markets
As more people become interested in the sources and quality of the things they eat, farmers’ markets have become a national trend. When you’re travelling around the many small towns and villages that make up the Devon coast, you’ll find a huge variety of farmers’ markets. The area hosts a wealth of artisan food producers, whether you are looking for a variety of cheeses and sea foods, or you’re more interested in the home-produced delicious ciders and wines.
Travelling Through Devon
You need to be a confident driver to handle some of the narrow, craggy roads that you’ll encounter when driving through Devon. You must be prepared for stray sheep and cattle meandering across some of the narrowest country lanes in Britain. If the weather is bad then you really need to take care, as the corkscrew bends you’re likely to encounter can make passing other vehicles a challenge. You will need the skills for moving into tight spaces to let another car go through!
Scenic Devon
No matter what time of the year you visit, Devon offers visitors beautiful views and tiny villages. In autumn the Devon moors are a riot of colour as the leaves turn from green through to gold. If you like the sea, in this area, the water is at its warmest during late September and through October.
When you’re travelling through Devon, you’ll see lots of villages with beautiful thatched cottages, but some of these areas are quite isolated and not easily accessible. You should be aware that in some areas of Devon there is no reception for mobile phones, which means you could be in for a long walk to the nearest farmhouse if you run into trouble.
Weather
Devon is beautiful at any time of the year, but if you’re travelling in the autumn or winter months, make sure that you have plenty of warm and weatherproof clothing – if you decide to walk across the moors you really will need to take water and windproofs. If you plan on hiking along the moors then make sure you are properly covered and sprayed with insect repellent – ticks are nasty things and there are lots on the moors.
Accommodation
There are plenty of great hotels, country inns, and farmhouses to stay at in Devon. Even in winter, you can find cosy farmhouses and inns that provide wonderful food. The locals in Devon are noted for their fondness for a good pint or glass of scrumpy, some of which is very strong, so make sure you know your limits. Like anywhere else, Devon has its good and bad places to stay, so do your research, and make bookings before you set off on your journey.
