If you’re planning a thoroughly British break for 2013 then one county that has plenty of offer is Devon. Nestled away in the very south-west, between Cornwall and Somerset, Devon is full of quaint villages, beautiful beaches and, of course, Dartmoor.

Here are a few ideas if you want to venture to the south-west this year.

Clovelly Village

Clovelly is a picturesque, historic fishing village, the cottages in which trickle their way down a cleft in a 400 degree cliff to a tiny working port and quay. What makes Clovelly so special is there are no cars – donkeys and sledges are the only way of getting around its cobbled streets.

Visit one of the village’s two museums, take a boat trip along the coast or go for a walk around the cliff tops before wandering around some of the delightful craft shops.

Dartmoor

A trip to Devon wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Dartmoor. This beautiful national park is a must-see and offers unforgettable views. The best way to see Dartmoor is, of course, to walk. There are plenty of routes already mapped out – you can find these online or by purchasing a walking guide book.

dartmoor

But walking isn’t the only thing Dartmoor has to offer. The Spirit of Adventure activity centre has something for everyone, such as trekking, climbing, kayaking and weekends for hen and stag groups. Treasure Trails is a Gold Award-winning activity that gets you exploring Dartmoor by following treasure hunts or murder mystery trails, while there are plenty of pubs, restaurants and tea rooms whenever you fancy something to eat.

Fantastic buildings

There are lots of beautiful buildings just waiting to be explored in Devon. Castle Drogo was the last castle to be built in England and was constructed in the 1910s and 1920s. As well as walking though the impressive interior, which has a sophisticated yet personal touch, you should go on a walk around the 700-acre estate, which includes formal gardens and the wooden gorge of the river Teign.

Castle Drogo

Buckfast Abbey, Arlington Court, Saltram House and Gardens, Watermouth Castle, Powderham Castle and the great estate of Killerton – which includes a costume collection exhibition and intricate gardens just waiting to be explored – are some of the best places to see.

Parks and attractions

If you’re going on a family trip to Devon then there are lots of parks and attractions to keep both you and the little ones entertained. Animal-lovers will adore World of Country Life, where you can meet Shetland ponies, wallabies, ostriches and chirping finches, among many other wonderful creatures both large and small.

Those of you looking for thrills and spills can enjoy a day out at Milky Way Adventure Park in north Devon, while The Big Sheep and Quince Honey Farm offer something a bit different.

Woolacombe Beach

If there’s one beach you have to visit when you’re in Devon it’s Woolacombe. This beach is great for families, couples, those looking for a peaceful afternoon spent reading in the sun – anyone really. Children will love exploring the many rock pools with fishing nets, while the waves are superb for anyone who loves surfing or bodyboarding.

The beach is huge and there’s plenty of room for everyone to lie in the sun or play bat and ball games, while you can enjoy a stroll through the sun when the sun sets after an evening meal in a nearby restaurant.

Where will your visit to Devon take you?

This guest blog was contributed by Janine Wooley a travel blogger who is dead keen on delightful Devon.