Exmouth Beach is a vast, sandy beach located on the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers safe swimming, rock pools to explore, and stunning views of the bay. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's play area, the nearby park with a putting green and tennis courts, and the mile-long promenade perfect for pushchairs and bikes.
- Lifeguards are on duty during summer months (May-September)
- Toilet and changing facilities are available near the seafront
- Several cafes, ice cream stalls, and fish and chip shops line the promenade
- The beach is mostly sand, ideal for sandcastles, with a gentle slope into the sea
- Dog restrictions apply in certain areas from Easter to October
Practical tips: Parking can be busy in summer; arrive before 10am for the best spots. Public toilets include baby-changing facilities. A land train runs along the seafront from May to September, a hit with younger children.
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🎢Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Crealy Theme Park & Resort is a family-friendly attraction in Exeter, Devon, offering over 60 rides and attractions set in 100 acres of parkland. The park is divided into areas like Adventure Zone, Magic Meadow, and Splash Zone (water play). Highlights include the Twister roller coaster, Tidal Wave, and the Safari Express train. There are also indoor soft play areas and animal encounters with goats, pigs, and donkeys. - Suitable for toddlers to teens, with dedicated areas for under-5s including Tiny Tots rides and the Squirrel’s Nest indoor play. - Facilities include picnic areas, gift shops, and multiple catering outlets (pizza, burgers, ice cream). The park is accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. On-site accommodation is available in lodges and glamping pods. - Practical tips: Book online in advance for best prices. Arrive early to avoid queues. Check weather for water play (Splash Zone operates seasonally). Parking is free.
🌲Haldon Forest Park
Haldon Forest Park is a 3,500-acre woodland in Devon, perfect for family adventures. Highlights include: - The Gruffalo Trail, a self-led activity trail for young children. - A natural woodland play area with swings, slides, and climbing frames. - Family-friendly cycling trails, including a dedicated family cycle path. - Go Ape high ropes course (ages 6+) and tree-top adventure (ages 4+). Facilities: Cafe serving hot and cold food, picnic areas, bike hire, and toilets (including baby changing). The park is free to enter, but parking costs around £2-3 per car. Most activities are outdoors, so dress for weather. Dogs welcome on leads.
🐴The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, Devon, is a world-famous charity dedicated to the rescue and care of donkeys. Visitors can explore the beautiful 50-acre site, meet hundreds of friendly donkeys in their natural habitats, and learn about the sanctuary's global work. Highlights include the indoor visitor center with interactive exhibits, a discovery barn where you can pet and groom donkeys, and scenic coastal walks through the donkey fields. The on-site café serves plant-based meals and there is a well-stocked gift shop. Free entry and parking make it an affordable day out for families. Facilities include pushchair-friendly paths, baby-changing stations, and accessible toilets. The sanctuary is mostly outdoor, but undercover areas and the visitor center provide shelter on rainy days. There are several picnic spots and a large play area for children. Recommended for all ages, with gentle donkeys that love attention; toddlers can safely pet them under supervision. The sanctuary also runs educational talks and feeding demonstrations throughout the day.
🎭The Cannon Theatre
The Cannon Theatre is a community-run venue in Sidmouth offering a diverse programme of live performances including plays, comedy, music, and children's shows. With a seating capacity of around 200, it provides an intimate setting that is great for families. The theatre often hosts kid-friendly productions during school holidays and runs occasional workshops. - Highlights: Family-friendly shows, workshops, and panto. - Ages: Suitable for all, but some shows recommend ages 3+. - Facilities: Small café/bar, accessible seating, pushchair parking. - Practical Tips: Check the website for child-friendly performances; book in advance for popular events.
🎭The Cannon Theatre
The Cannon Theatre is a community-run venue in Sidmouth offering a diverse programme of live performances including plays, comedy, music, and children's shows. With a seating capacity of around 200, it provides an intimate setting that is great for families. The theatre often hosts kid-friendly productions during school holidays and runs occasional workshops. - Highlights: Family-friendly shows, workshops, and panto. - Ages: Suitable for all, but some shows recommend ages 3+. - Facilities: Small café/bar, accessible seating, pushchair parking. - Practical Tips: Check the website for child-friendly performances; book in advance for popular events.
⛪Exeter Cathedral
Exeter Cathedral is a magnificent medieval cathedral brimming with history and family-friendly activities. Kids will love the famous astronomical clock, the Minstrels' Gallery with its carved angels, and the 'Catch the Light' interactive installation. The cathedral offers a free family trail that guides children through the building with fun facts and puzzles. - Highlights: Astronomical clock, Minstrels' Gallery, Bishop's Throne, children's quiz trail. - Facilities: Baby-changing, accessible toilets, wheelchair access, café serving snacks and hot drinks. - Practical tips: Entry includes a free audio guide. Photography is allowed without flash. The cathedral is often quieter in the late afternoon.
🏘️Babbacombe Model Village
Babbacombe Model Village offers a magical miniature world set in four acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. With over 400 models including intricate scenes, moving characters, and a miniature railway, it captivates children and adults alike. Highlights include the 'Day and Night' experience where lights twinkle after dark, and the interactive 'Butterfly Walk'. - Over 400 detailed model scenes - Miniature railway ride - Interactive play areas for children - Café and gift shop on site - Accessible paths and facilities The attraction is primarily outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather. It is suitable for toddlers to teenagers, with plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxed pace. Allow 2-3 hours for a visit.
⛰️Kents Cavern
Kents Cavern is a spectacular system of natural caves in Torquay, Devon, one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe. Family-friendly guided tours take you deep underground to see ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and evidence of early humans. Highlights include: - Guided 50-minute tour suitable for all ages - Interactive museum with fossils and hands-on exhibits - Woodland play area and adventure trail - Café and gift shop on site Facilities: baby-changing, buggy parking, accessible paths for most of the cave (some steps). Best for ages 3+, but all welcome. Practical tips: wear sensible shoes, bring a jacket (cave is 14°C year-round), and book online to guarantee entry.
🏛️Torre Abbey
Torre Abbey is a historic abbey turned mansion set in stunning gardens overlooking Torquay. Families can explore the medieval and Victorian rooms, art gallery, and the 'Pirate Trail' – a self-guided family activity. The gardens include a subtropical garden, yew tunnel, and a children's play area. There's a café serving light meals and snacks. Highlights for kids: - Pirate Trail with treasure hunt - Gardens with space to run - Art gallery with interactive exhibits - Seasonal family events Practical tips: Allow 2-3 hours. Pushchair-friendly mostly. Baby-changing facilities available. Garden is wheelchair accessible but some paths uneven. Age suitability: Toddlers will enjoy the gardens, older children the trail and history. Recommended for ages 3-12.