We recently took Longtide Studio on the road to exhibit at the Ideal Home Show and we met so many of you lovely lot that live outside of the south west. Lots of you were planning your summer trips and asked us for our top tips, so here are our perfect Devon road trip ideas...
Devon is a chunky old county, so for this blog we'll be visiting our highlights to give you a taste of the best bits. So pack your bags, grab those walking boots and flip flops and head on down to Devon.
Salcombe
Your first stop on your Devon road trip itinerary will be right down in the southern tip of Devon - the picture perfect fishing village of Salcombe. From boat trips to quayside crabbing, beach days or gin tasting, it's got it all. Head out and explore the coastpath, venture out on a kayak and discover the creeks and coves or just relax and enjoy the views.
If you're feeling fancy then we love Gara Rock Hotel, or hideaway up a peaceful creek with a room at The Millbrook Inn.
Longtide top tip: Head to Salcombe Distilling Co where you can join them for a distillery tour and tutored gin tasting - a great way to spend an afternoon!
Dartmoor
After a few lazy seaside days, head up to the middle of Devon and discover the wilds of Dartmoor. On the way we recommend stopping in Totnes for a few hours. A beautiful and quirky riverside town with lots to see, from river cruises to a castle.
If you've never visited Dartmoor before then an easy place to get to as you are driving up from Salcombe or Totnes is Haytor Rocks. An incredible and dramatic rock formation with sweeping moorland views. You'll find the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre nearby for maps, advice, info or souvenirs.
Spend a night at Bovey Castle if you're going all out, or The Rock Inn at Haytor for cosy moor vibes.
Longtide top tip: Hop on the South Devon Steam Railway at Buckfastleigh for a trip back in time!
North Devon
Welcome to the home of Longtide Studio! This is the gorgeous part of Devon that we are so lucky to call home and where we hand make all of our pieces.
First of all head up to the coast for some beach time. Whether it's summer surfing or winter beach walks, the long stretches of sand at Woolacombe and Saunton are perfect whatever the weather. Relax in a fancy sea view spa hotel or chill at The Smuggler's Rest.
With your fill of seaside fun, head on to the pretty villages of Lynton & Lynmouth and explore the incredible Valley of Rocks. There are plenty of nearby walks and views to be had, plus the fun of riding the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway!
From here we'd take a drive across Exmoor, extending your stay at Dulverton if you have a little extra time. Once you're ready to head home you can follow the road via Tiverton and you'll be popped back on the M5 and perfectly positioned for your trip home.
Longtide Top Tip: You can't have a trip to Devon without fish and chips! Our favourite is Royal Plaice in Appledore. Grab a takeaway and wander down to the waterside for dinner with a view!
Looking for the perfect memento of your trip? Take a peek at our personalised wooden signs or coastal living collection! With everything from your favourite place name to special co-ordinates, we've got the perfect piece for you.