North Devon & Somerset

Your adventure begins today in Barnstaple, North Devon's largest town and one of the oldest boroughs in the United Kingdom. Steeped in history but with a cosmopolitan air, this is the perfect starting point to take in the beauty of North Devon and Somerset, with Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks on its doorstep. After meeting your Tour Manager at your hotel on the banks of the River Taw, you can explore the town at leisure until dinner with the rest of your group this evening.

• Dinner

After breakfast, you spend your first full day exploring West Devon. After travelling through rural scenery by coach and rail, your group is joined by an expert guide in Okehampton, at the edge of Dartmoor National Park. On a coach tour through the beautiful English countryside, hear about the local culture and heritage as the guide points out interesting landmarks. Admire castles, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes along the way. Arriving in Tavistock, the only town in Devon to hold world heritage status, you have time to explore. Wander through its thriving but friendly streets, discover a range of independent shops, and try local delicacies for lunch.

Back on the coach, your tour takes you into the heart of Dartmoor next. You see Two Bridges, a local beauty spot where, historically, two bridges crossed the West Dart and River Cowsic. Today it's a scenic area, nestled in an isolated place surrounded by moorland and greenery. You also visit the picturesque market town of Moretonhampstead before returning to the hotel.

• Breakfast, Dinner

This morning your coach takes you to Woody Bay, stopping along the way at the Valley of the Rocks. This dramatic section of coastline on the northern edge of Exmoor, is the perfect place for a photo with spectacular views of the seascape. Reaching Woody Bay, a serene bay surrounded by the scenery of Exmoor National Park, your group boards the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.

From your genuine 1890s carriage, relax and take in the backdrop of wild moorland and picturesque coastline on a two-mile round trip. Next, your coach drives you to Lynton, a pretty coastal town. With time at leisure, over lunch, you could ride the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway. This award-winning funicular railway joins the historic towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, separated by a steep cliff, with incredible views across the coast and ocean.

This afternoon, your group visits the enchanting RHS Garden Rosemoor. After a guided tour of the beautiful gardens, there's time to explore at your own pace. Stroll through the kaleidoscopic displays, including an elegant rose garden with around 2,000 rose plants, the 'hot garden' - where plants are chosen for their warm hues, and a garden filled with a huge variety of fruit and vegetables.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a day at leisure to discover more of the area at your own pace. Barnstaple is bursting with things to see and do, from tempting independent cafés to historic markets. The Pannier Market has remained mostly unchanged for over 150 years, and offers fresh local produce, crafts and flowers. In nearby Bideford, discover a pretty town filled with great pubs, friendly locals and scenic river views.

Please Note - For departure 12/05/24 Days 4 and 5 have swapped around.

• Breakfast

This morning your group travels by coach to Minehead, a town known as 'the gateway to Exmoor'. With time at leisure, you can discover beaches, the fishing quarter and the historic harbour. On the hill, there's a set of distinctive stone steps which lead to a lovely 14th-century church creating a scene perfect for a postcard. You could also enjoy a stroll down the tree-lined avenue, where you'll find delightful tea rooms, inviting pubs, and unique independent shops in the town centre. After time to explore, your group joins the West Somerset Railway for a heritage, afternoon journey through beautiful countryside. Passing through delightful stations like Blue Anchor and Watchet, showcasing their unique architectural charm, the train makes its way towards Bishops Lydeard.

From here, you join your coach and head to Sheppy's Cider Farm, where the Sheppy family has been making award-winning craft cider for over 200 years. You have a chance to try the classic Somerset cider, one of the oldest cider brands in the world, made from a traditional recipe passed down through six generations. Returning to your hotel later this afternoon, there's time to relax before the final dinner with your group this evening.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Your time in Devon ends after breakfast this morning. Once you've checked out, it's time to make your way home, or you could continue your exploring further on your own.

• Breakfast