The Best Late Summer and Autumn Activities in the South West

As the summer holidays draw to a close and autumn is just around the corner, we’ve put together a list of activities you can still get involved in!

Dartmoor National Park

A lot of us feel safer outdoors at the moment and, if you’re a fan of the outdoors or a keen walker, Dartmoor is not to be missed if you’re in the South West. This sprawling national park is a rugged, beautiful landscape featuring tors, woodlands, valleys and flowing rivers, as well as plenty of spots for a picnic.

At 954 square kilometers, there’s plenty of terrain to explore on Dartmoor without bumping into other people!

South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The South Devon AONB is another national park in Devon, close to Salcombe. There are all sorts of things to do here usually, but the best thing it offers is a peaceful place to roam around while you give the kids some exercise. It covers 60 glorious miles of coastline, estuaries and countryside between Plymouth and Torbay.

It’s an ideal choice for walkers and cyclists as you can view the beautiful coastline as you travel. Keen bird watchers will also enjoy the tranquil river banks.

Crealy Theme Park

Crealy Adventure Park in Exeter has now reopened, with an emphasis on fun in a safe and socially-distanced way. Kids will love the rides and attractions, as they can get a real adrenaline rush from those such as The Twister, Vortex and Maximus Rollercoaster. Plus, tickets are just £15 until the 6th September. It’s worth noting that all tickets must be booked in advance online and the indoor play areas are closed until further notice.

Seaton Jurassic

Another attraction that has recently reopened in the South West is Seaton Jurassic. Here, kids and adults alike can journey back in time to make exciting geological discoveries.You can travel on the ‘Time Ship’ back to the Jurassic world, 200 million years ago!

They are running a daily ‘Socially Safe Species Garden Trail’ to help people embrace nature. Plus, on the 21st and 22nd August, there is the Natural Seaton Virtual BioBlitz, an annual event to celebrate local history which is still going ahead (albeit virtually). All visitors will be asked to book in advance and entry is on a timed basis. They are open from 10am to 4pm (last entry) seven days a week.

Babbacombe Model Village and Gardens

This miniature village is one of the top attractions in Torquay, and for good reason. You can step into another world and feel like a giant as you explore this intricate and carefully designed miniature world.

There are over 400 models of houses, stately homes, factories, shops, entertainment venues and environmental features, and among these are some hilarious representations of life in the UK. Kids will love the challenge of spotting different miniature figures throughout the village. You can also take a stroll through the award-winning gardens to end the day!

They are currently operating at about a 50% capacity so it is recommended that you book in advance.

So, those are just some of the exciting activities in the South West you can take part in as summer draws to a close and autumn begins. Have a great time and remember to stay safe!

This blog was written by Emma at Westcountry Resorts, who specialise in selling luxury holiday homes, including those by Willerby, in Devon and Somerset.