Local Attractions
Nestled serenely in our own glorious corner of Devon, we’re perfectly situated to explore all the bountiful delights Devon has to offer!
Cofton Holidays is situated in the heart of thriving South Devon. Whilst we’re perfectly nestled in our own glorious corner, we’re within driving distance of numerous local attractions and must sees.
Whether you’re visiting us in the school holidays or during the quieter low season months, there is always a plethora of activities for you to see and do.
A number of travel experts have visited us recently, why not read about what they got up to?
We’re just 12 miles from the historic medieval Cathedral City of Exeter, which takes 20 minutes by car or just under an hour on the traffic-free cycle paths up the picturesque Exe Estuary.
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Babbacombe Cliff Railway
Where: Babbacombe Cliff Railway, Babbacombe Downs Rd, Torquay TQ1 3LF
Great for: The Whole Family
Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found in the UK, the Cliff Railway provides a vital and non-exhausting way for locals and holiday makers alike to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and take in the amazing views as they travel to and from the water’s edge.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: Yes
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Built in 1926, the Babbacombe Cliff Railway has shuttled hundreds of thousands of holiday makers to and from Oddicombe Beach in over 90 years of service. A truly unique way to travel in style and reach the sandy beaches!
Babbacombe Model Village
Where: Babbacombe, Torquay
Great for: Kids
Feel like a giant at the model village as you explore 4 acres of award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of model scenes, vehicles & people.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: Yes
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Feel like a giant at the model village as you explore 4 acres of award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of model scenes, vehicles & people.
If you haven't been for a while, several new models have opened in the last few years - including our popular Paignton Zoo model, a west country fishing village, the peek inside house and our new Celebrity Mansion - come and see who you can spot!.
Also, Animated 'Arry who talks to visitors as they pass by. This is our first miniature talking resident with fully synchronised mouth movement.
Our miniature world is full of model scenes and all kinds of goings on, there is much humour and animated displays - it is very important to take your time or you will miss a lot!
Buckfast Abbey
Where: Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, TQ11 0EE
Great for: A leisurely day out
Take a leisurely stroll around the gardens or learn more about the rich history inside the Abbey - the Benedictine Monks who call this home welcome you to this stunning location all year round.
Entry charge: Free
Parking charge: n/a
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The only English medieval monastery to have been restored and returned to it's original usage, this is one of Devon's hidden gems.
The Benedictine Monks who now call this home welcome visitors throughout the year. Situated on the verge of Dartmoor, the abbey and it's ground are free to enter and provide a chance to find out more about it's rich history and an opportunity to stretch your legs or even relax with some delicious food and drink!
Find out more at the Buckfast Abbey website
Canonteign Falls
Where: Lower Ashton, Dartmoor National Park, EX6 7RH
Great for: Outdoor Enthusiasts
Home to England’s highest manmade waterfall, Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in a magical natural paradise. The waterfalls themselves descend for over 70m making this one of the most breathtaking attractions in Devon and providing a wonderful day out for all the family.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: n/a
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Seize the opportunity to capture some stunning photos of England's tallest man-made Waterfall! Set in the picturesque Dartmoor National Park, it really is one for the picture books!
It's more than just a postcard location however with 7 lakes, a children's play area, giant bunnies and a children's nature trail... you'll be nothing but pleasantly surprised by this hidden jewel.
In bad weather and high season the opening times may vary, so please see the following link before you set off!
www.canonteignfalls.co.uk/prices-opening
Babbacombe Model Village
Where: Babbacombe, Torquay
Great for: Kids
Feel like a giant at the model village as you explore 4 acres of award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of model scenes, vehicles & people.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: Yes
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
Feel like a giant at the model village as you explore 4 acres of award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of model scenes, vehicles & people.
If you haven't been for a while, several new models have opened in the last few years - including our popular Paignton Zoo model, a west country fishing village, the peek inside house and our new Celebrity Mansion - come and see who you can spot!.
Also, Animated 'Arry who talks to visitors as they pass by. This is our first miniature talking resident with fully synchronised mouth movement.
Our miniature world is full of model scenes and all kinds of goings on, there is much humour and animated displays - it is very important to take your time or you will miss a lot!
Crealy Great Adventure Park
Where: Clyst St Mary, Exeter
Great for: Kids
Fabulous countryside, over 60 amazing rides and attractions, and that wonderful warm Devon welcome – it could only be Crealy Great Adventure Park!
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: No
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Fabulous countryside, over 60 amazing rides and attractions, and that wonderful warm Devon welcome – it could only be Crealy Great Adventure Park & Resort! Welcome to the South West’s number one family attraction. One of the best days out with the kids in Devon. With over 100 acres of beautiful countryside to explore, 60 rides and attractions to get the heart pumping. Kids squealing with delight, and a wide range of cute and cuddly animal residents. Days out in Devon have never been so much fun!
A day out with the kids at Crealy is hugely accessible. Just minutes from Junction 30 of the M5, and with plenty of parking, space to run around and those thrilling rides, Crealy is bound to be on everyone’s list of the best things to do in Exeter and they have events that take place at all times of the year.
They've got everything you could want at the premier adventure park in Devon. Welcoming guests of all ages, from tiny tots to grandparents. With exciting outdoor rides and play areas to a large indoor fun zone, Crealy guarantees fun no matter the weather.
Diggerland
Where: Verbeer Manor, Willand, Cullompton EX15 2PE
Great for: The Whole Family
Diggerland is The Ultimate Adventure Theme Park Experience where children and adults alike can ride, drive and operate REAL diggers, dumpers and other full- size construction machinery.
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Get to grips with real JCBs and 180/360 excavators, take a head-reeling turn or two on the Spindizzy, rise to lofty heights and enjoy the views on the Skyshuttle, enjoy an off-road ride on the Groundshuttle, or have a go on the Dodgems and Go-Karts!
There are indoor and outdoor play areas, sandpits, coin operated rides and much more where younger visitors can let off steam while their parents can just sit back, relax and watch the fun… or join in!
All parks boast a Diggerland Goodie Store where visitors can mark their day with a memorable souvenir as well as buy gifts, toys and other merchandise, and there are cafeterias that offer a wide selection of hot and cold snacks, meals and beverages. Picnic tables are located in the grounds for those who prefer to bring their own packed lunches.
Why not upgrade your visit to include a Monster Digger Experience, JCB Experience, Dumper Truck or JCB Racing? Head to their website to book these exclusive activities: www.diggerland.com
Splashdown Quaywest
Where: Goodrington Sands, Tanners Lane, TQ4 6LN
Great for: Families
Be prepared for an adrenaline-fuelled time at the UK's BIGGEST waterpark! With rides, slides and flumes galore... it's gonna be wild!
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: n/a
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Situated on the seafront at Goodrington Sands, some of the most spectacular views on the English riviera bestow the numerous water rides and slides! It's the UK's biggest waterpark - be prepared for an adrenaline pumping time!
There's lots of variety for varying ages and abilities - with toddler rides, pools and arcades!
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
Where: Babbacombe Cliff Railway, Babbacombe Downs Rd, Torquay TQ1 3LF
Great for: The Whole Family
Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found in the UK, the Cliff Railway provides a vital and non-exhausting way for locals and holiday makers alike to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and take in the amazing views as they travel to and from the water’s edge.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: Yes
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
Built in 1926, the Babbacombe Cliff Railway has shuttled hundreds of thousands of holiday makers to and from Oddicombe Beach in over 90 years of service. A truly unique way to travel in style and reach the sandy beaches!
Canonteign Falls
Where: Lower Ashton, Dartmoor National Park, EX6 7RH
Great for: Outdoor Enthusiasts
Home to England’s highest manmade waterfall, Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in a magical natural paradise. The waterfalls themselves descend for over 70m making this one of the most breathtaking attractions in Devon and providing a wonderful day out for all the family.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: n/a
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
Seize the opportunity to capture some stunning photos of England's tallest man-made Waterfall! Set in the picturesque Dartmoor National Park, it really is one for the picture books!
It's more than just a postcard location however with 7 lakes, a children's play area, giant bunnies and a children's nature trail... you'll be nothing but pleasantly surprised by this hidden jewel.
In bad weather and high season the opening times may vary, so please see the following link before you set off!
www.canonteignfalls.co.uk/prices-opening
Escot House
Where: Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1LU
Great for: Family Friendly
Wildwood Escot is East Devon’s conservation and wildlife branch of the Wildwood Trust. With its winding woodland paths and beautiful flowers, Wildwood Escot hosts the perfect environment for our collection of native and formerly-native wildlife.
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Start your adventure by picking up a free visitor map, guiding you around over 200 acres of stunning parkland where guinea fowl and majestic peacocks roam freely. Meet rare red squirrels in our walk-through enclosure, test your orientation with our world-class beech hedge maze, and marvel at our birds of prey displays. Navigate the vast woodland, stumbling across our wildcat and lynx enclosures, and discover Jurassic Pork where wild boar and their piglets roll around in the mud! With a hidden playground, a heart-stopping drop slide and an indoor play barn all at your feet, Wildwood Escot is the perfect place for a family day out.
Exe Adventures
Where: River Exe
Great for: Families
We're fortunate to be surrounded by the awesome Exe Estuary and epic coastline. Get your sea legs on and book a water-based activity with Exe Adventures, a leading local activity speciality.
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This is an exclusive activity for Cofton residents, you'll get picked up and dropped off at Main Reception!
Kayaking and Canoe Rental
Groups can be picked up and driven to the water’s edge along with Kayak’s Canoes, or Stand Up Paddle boards whichever you may like to use for fun your own way and in your own time.
Your group will be given a dry bag for your non waterproof things and a map of the water ways, showing you where you can stop off eat, drink and chill.
Then when you are done, call for your lift home wherever your location might be.
£25 per person
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand Up Paddleboards and Sit on Kayaks can be rented out locally,
And If you need picking up and returning locally with the equipment, then no problem!!
Half Day £25 per person, Full Day £40 per person.
Social Paddle
Perfect for beginners giving something new a try or a competent paddler fancying a jolly! If you’re 1 person and would like to join a group or you’re a large group of 14 you can get picked up in the 15 seat minibus for the Social Paddle! Get driven to the water’s edge in Exminster, where you can paddle approximately a mile down the safe still water canal to the famous Waterside Pub. Groups get the chance to paddle individual or double kayaks, family canoes and stand up paddle boards. When arriving at the pub, groups can eat, drink, sunbathe in the sun and play on all the boats for an hour in the sheltered boat harbour. Then we all paddle back a mile up the waterway to then get driven home.
£20 for lunch
Contact
These activities are the perfect way to get to know your glorious corner of Devon! If you'd like more information head to the Exe Adventures website or call Sam for more details.
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
Where: Babbacombe Cliff Railway, Babbacombe Downs Rd, Torquay TQ1 3LF
Great for: The Whole Family
Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found in the UK, the Cliff Railway provides a vital and non-exhausting way for locals and holiday makers alike to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and take in the amazing views as they travel to and from the water’s edge.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: Yes
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
Built in 1926, the Babbacombe Cliff Railway has shuttled hundreds of thousands of holiday makers to and from Oddicombe Beach in over 90 years of service. A truly unique way to travel in style and reach the sandy beaches!
Buckfast Abbey
Where: Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, TQ11 0EE
Great for: A leisurely day out
Take a leisurely stroll around the gardens or learn more about the rich history inside the Abbey - the Benedictine Monks who call this home welcome you to this stunning location all year round.
Entry charge: Free
Parking charge: n/a
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
The only English medieval monastery to have been restored and returned to it's original usage, this is one of Devon's hidden gems.
The Benedictine Monks who now call this home welcome visitors throughout the year. Situated on the verge of Dartmoor, the abbey and it's ground are free to enter and provide a chance to find out more about it's rich history and an opportunity to stretch your legs or even relax with some delicious food and drink!
Find out more at the Buckfast Abbey website
Dartmouth Steam Railway & Riverboat Company
Where: Dartmouth Steam Railway, Queens Park Station, Torbay Road, Paignton, TQ4 6AF
Great for: Families
Based on the glorious South Devon coastline in South West England, enjoy your days out in Devon on our steam trains, boat trips and paddle steamer - the only attraction in Devon that lets you enjoy the delights of Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth and the River Dart, Kingswear and Totnes on your day out!
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: Yes
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Dartmouth Steam Railway steam trains travel seven miles along the South Devon coast and into the Dart Valley with stations at Goodrington Sands, Churston and the beautiful village of Kingswear which sits opposite the pretty Port of Dartmouth whilst Dartmouth River Boats operate on the River Dart offering daily scheduled services to the historic town of Totnes (nine miles upriver). 1-hour circular river cruises operate daily from Dartmouth plus regular services to the village of Dittisham.
Our famous Round Robin is an award-winning full day excursion - a steam train journey, ferry crossing, river cruise and bus ride. This ticket is a favourite with all ages where you can just sit back and enjoy the scenery. There are many different options available each day so you can choose the itinerary that suits you best, spending time exploring the towns along the way.
2013 brought a local initiative stirring fond memories in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The River Dart, which for centuries provided a transport highway up and down this Devon waterway, regained the last coal fired paddle steamer carrying passengers in the UK, the Kingswear Castle. She was built in 1924 at Philip & Son of Dartmouth, and returned home after an absence of 47 years.
She runs Dartmouth River Cruises and cruises between Dartmouth and Totnes so that passengers can now journey on her as part of the famous Round Robin excursion. So, this award winning circular tour has just got even better!
For prices and latest timetable information head to their website.
Escot House
Where: Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1LU
Great for: Family Friendly
Wildwood Escot is East Devon’s conservation and wildlife branch of the Wildwood Trust. With its winding woodland paths and beautiful flowers, Wildwood Escot hosts the perfect environment for our collection of native and formerly-native wildlife.
Distance:
Grade:
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Start your adventure by picking up a free visitor map, guiding you around over 200 acres of stunning parkland where guinea fowl and majestic peacocks roam freely. Meet rare red squirrels in our walk-through enclosure, test your orientation with our world-class beech hedge maze, and marvel at our birds of prey displays. Navigate the vast woodland, stumbling across our wildcat and lynx enclosures, and discover Jurassic Pork where wild boar and their piglets roll around in the mud! With a hidden playground, a heart-stopping drop slide and an indoor play barn all at your feet, Wildwood Escot is the perfect place for a family day out.
Canonteign Falls
Where: Lower Ashton, Dartmoor National Park, EX6 7RH
Great for: Outdoor Enthusiasts
Home to England’s highest manmade waterfall, Canonteign Falls is a magnificent example of a Victorian folly set in a magical natural paradise. The waterfalls themselves descend for over 70m making this one of the most breathtaking attractions in Devon and providing a wonderful day out for all the family.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: n/a
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
Seize the opportunity to capture some stunning photos of England's tallest man-made Waterfall! Set in the picturesque Dartmoor National Park, it really is one for the picture books!
It's more than just a postcard location however with 7 lakes, a children's play area, giant bunnies and a children's nature trail... you'll be nothing but pleasantly surprised by this hidden jewel.
In bad weather and high season the opening times may vary, so please see the following link before you set off!
www.canonteignfalls.co.uk/prices-opening
Crealy Great Adventure Park
Where: Clyst St Mary, Exeter
Great for: Kids
Fabulous countryside, over 60 amazing rides and attractions, and that wonderful warm Devon welcome – it could only be Crealy Great Adventure Park!
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: No
Distance:
Grade:
Estimated Time:
Fabulous countryside, over 60 amazing rides and attractions, and that wonderful warm Devon welcome – it could only be Crealy Great Adventure Park & Resort! Welcome to the South West’s number one family attraction. One of the best days out with the kids in Devon. With over 100 acres of beautiful countryside to explore, 60 rides and attractions to get the heart pumping. Kids squealing with delight, and a wide range of cute and cuddly animal residents. Days out in Devon have never been so much fun!
A day out with the kids at Crealy is hugely accessible. Just minutes from Junction 30 of the M5, and with plenty of parking, space to run around and those thrilling rides, Crealy is bound to be on everyone’s list of the best things to do in Exeter and they have events that take place at all times of the year.
They've got everything you could want at the premier adventure park in Devon. Welcoming guests of all ages, from tiny tots to grandparents. With exciting outdoor rides and play areas to a large indoor fun zone, Crealy guarantees fun no matter the weather.
Dartmoor Zoological Park
Where: Sparkwell, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 5DG
Great for: Walking on the wild side
Dartmoor Zoological Park is a very, very special place… It was once on the edge of ruin, when in 2006, a local family came to the rescue and turned its fortunes around. It is now a leading conservation and educational facility.
Entry charge: Yes
Parking charge: No
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Dartmoor Wildlife Park was on the edge of ruin, when in 2006, a local family saved the zoo from extinction and the animals from being destroyed!
The story of the zoo, and the personal battles the family face have since been documented by a book and subsequent Hollywood movie which starred Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson.
The Zoo is fast becoming a leading light for conservation and education - the rangers and the animals can't wait to meet you!
To date there are 72 mammals, 38 birds, 21 reptiles, 16 invertebrates and 5 amphibians for you to see for yourself at DZP.
Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve
Where: Dawlish Warren
Great for: Families
Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve is an area of grassland, sand dunes, mudflats and centres on a 1½ mile long sandspit/beach across the mouth of the Exe Estuary.
Entry charge: Free
Parking charge: Yes
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Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve is an area of grassland, sand dunes, mudflats and centres on a 1½ mile long sandspit/beach across the mouth of the Exe Estuary.
As part of the Exe Estuary it is one of the most important places for wildfowl and wading birds in the whole of the South West. Thousands of birds come to feed, on migration, or to spend the winter here.
The dunes and grassland have a host of special plants. Over 600 different types of flowering plants have been recorded on the Warren. This varied Reserve has many different habitats including salt marsh, fresh water ponds, wet meadows and woodland.
The Warren is so important that it is protected for its wildlife by both national and international law.
Each autumn up to 23,000 wildfowl and wading birds travel to the Exe Estuary from the far north to escape the cold. They start arriving in August and stay until late March.
The Warren is vital for their survival providing the main roosting (or resting) place on high tides.
For about 3 hours before and after high tide several thousand birds gather on the Warren's shores. These include important flocks of Dunlin, Grey Plover, Bar Tailed Godwit and Oystercatcher. Brent Geese, Wigeon and Teal also shelter inshore waters.
Latest blog
The Cofton Team but not as you know them - The Big Comic Relief job swap...
18 March 2019
" Glad you enjoyed it 😀, have a fab day with your family today https://t.co/87Nxi0bq8u
"Another gorgeous day in Devon!☀️Popped down to the on site pub ‘The Swan Inn’ last night @Cofton_Holidays which we… https://t.co/a3sdeX7ijh
2 days ago
On your Easter break,
Take your favourite four legged friends with you and choose to stay in our dog friendly accommodation.
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#dogfriendly ... See MoreSee Less
" Don't leave your dog at home. You can still book a dog friendly holiday this Easter 🙌 https://t.co/QrvnblAWzU… https://t.co/3CvakfQMaG "
Some of your kind words...
We have had a wonderful experience, the site is very clean, ALL the staff were friendly and helpful especially the bar supervisor, entertainment was second to none, we'll 100% return...
The Warren Family
I just want to say how impressed my fellow Motorhomers and Caravaners were with the welcome and service we received during our stay. Staff in the office were polite and helpful at all times. Scott the restaurant manager was most accommodating when I enquired about reserving space for 25 to 30 of us for lunch after a walk. The service in the restaurant was speedy the food hot and varied. We were very pleased with the standards. Staff in the restaurant were cheerful and polite and helped make our meal most enjoyable. We had such a good time that we will be returning again next year for our Xmas Rally.
Sally
The best holiday park we've been to in our motorhome. Our children aged 2 and 4 loved it. Great facilities, entertainment and activities in one of the best parts of Devon!
Peter, London.
Delicious fish and chips, friendly and helpful staff and delightful woodland.
Suze - Cornwall
Good location and dog walking, we'll be back and it can't come quick enough.
David - Portsmouth.
Loved the Zumba class! Can't wait to come back!
Elise - Exeter.
A* facilities, always very clean. The pool and food offer great value for money!
Chris M
Stayed in Honeysuckle Cottage, stunning views over the Exe Estuary.. fantastic place for a family holiday
Ian - Australia.
My little girls aged 2,3 and 5 loved the entertainment.. all they can remember is fun, fun and more fun!
Anonymous - Cheshire.
Quiet and relaxing in a stunning location.. Can't wait to return
Ethan R, Burnham-on-Sea
We usually camp 3 times a year and hire a caravan after the Christmas break at Cofton, and will continue to do so. We thoroughly recommend staying there. Great for families or just the 2 of you.
Jilly B, Cheltenham
Go for swimming and food at this fabulous holiday camp... facilities A-star so clean and just great value for money would defo use over and over again which I do.... I'm a regular visitor. Dip and dine always good option as the food and snacks are fantastic in the bar cafe area near swimming pool!
Chris M
Excellent toilet block and lovely hot showers. The on site pub was spot on with really friendly staff..
Joan L, Bromsgrove
The superbly equipped Woodside Cottage was beautifully clean with a fantastic Hot Tub. Waking up to horses and cows in the rear field.. stunning!
Katie, Teignmouth
So friendly and clean, it’s a home from home and we couldn’t go a year with a visit!
Bernice Procter, Swindon
I always pay a visit to Amelia's Pantry, you can just Relax, Indulge and Enjoy!
Ian Adams
‘Wonderful facilities, especially the swimming pools! In a lovely setting, for us it is simply the best campsite we have found.’
Margaret Hayes, Leeds
We have been coming to Cofton since 2009 and have stayed at least 12 times. We love everything about Cofton: the location and scenery in and around the park, the quality and cleanliness of accommodation, the friendly welcoming atmosphere; Everything about Cofton is great!
Ethan Robinson, Somerset
‘Dog walks, cycling, lovely country pubs… It suits our every need’
Kay Hancock, Bristol
