Nestled between two stunning coastlines and filled with rolling countryside, Devon offers some of the most peaceful rural escapes in Britain.
While the county’s popular seaside towns and moorland attractions draw crowds, its hidden villages provide perfect sanctuaries for those seeking tranquillity.
These settlements, with their thatched cottages, ancient churches, and friendly local pubs, represent Devon at its most authentic and charming, so if you’re planning a relaxing break away from busy tourist hotspots, our holiday cottages in Devon provide the perfect base to explore these peaceful havens.
North Devon’s Secret Hideaways
Instow
This tranquil estuary village offers a refreshing alternative to North Devon’s busier coastal towns. Positioned where the Rivers Taw and Torridge meet, Instow boasts a sandy beach with calming views across to Appledore. Unlike its more popular neighbours, the village maintains a gentle pace year-round.
The beach here lacks the surfing crowds of Croyde or Woolacombe, making it perfect for quiet contemplation and peaceful walks. Birdwatchers will appreciate the rich estuarine wildlife, while food enthusiasts can enjoy locally-caught seafood at the village’s acclaimed bistro or traditional fare at the historic Instow Arms.
For a truly peaceful experience, take an evening stroll along the beachfront as the sun sets over the estuary—a magical moment you’ll likely share with only a handful of others.
Georgeham
Just inland from Croyde Bay sits Georgeham, a picture-postcard village that has managed to remain wonderfully unspoilt. Literary enthusiasts might recognise it as the home of Henry Williamson, who wrote the classic ‘Tarka the Otter’ while living here.
The village centres around two excellent pubs—The Kings Arms and The Rock Inn—both serving outstanding food in cosy, traditional settings. Wander the narrow lanes lined with stone cottages and you’ll discover a 13th-century church with fascinating carvings and a peaceful churchyard.
What makes Georgeham special is its proximity to North Devon’s stunning coastline without any of the tourist infrastructure that can disrupt the peace. It’s just a short drive or pleasant walk to the quieter Putsborough end of Woolacombe Beach.
Berrynarbor
Consistently winning Britain in Bloom competitions, Berrynarbor is possibly North Devon’s prettiest village. Its floral displays throughout summer transform the already-charming stone cottages and ancient buildings into something from a storybook.
The 13th-century St Peter’s Church stands proudly at the village centre, while the 16th-century Ye Olde Globe Inn offers a warm welcome to visitors. Despite its beauty, Berrynarbor remains off the main tourist trail, preserving its peaceful atmosphere.
Nearby Watermouth Cove provides a secluded alternative to the region’s larger beaches, while numerous footpaths lead through wooded valleys and along coastal ridges with breathtaking views.
Mid-Devon’s Pastoral Retreats
Bickleigh
Straddling the River Exe via a 17th-century stone bridge, Bickleigh represents quintessential rural Devon. This small village centres around an ancient mill that’s now home to craft shops and a tearoom—the perfect spot to watch the river flow past.
Bickleigh Castle, although primarily a wedding venue, opens its gardens occasionally and offers a glimpse into Devon’s medieval past. The riverside walks from the village are particularly peaceful, leading through meadows where you might spot kingfishers or otters if you’re patient.
The Fisherman’s Cot pub sits right beside the river, offering local ales and hearty meals with a view that’s hard to beat anywhere in Devon.
Cheriton Fitzpaine
This hidden gem in the heart of Devon sits among rolling farmland and ancient hedgerows. Its name derives from the cherry orchards that once surrounded it, and some of these historic trees can still be spotted in village gardens.
The community-run Half Moon Inn stands at the heart of village life, offering not just excellent food and drink but a warm welcome from locals happy to share their knowledge of the area. St Matthew’s Church, with its impressive tower, provides a beautiful focal point.
What makes Cheriton Fitzpaine special is its network of quiet lanes and footpaths leading through unspoilt countryside—perfect for morning walks before returning to a cottage garden for breakfast.
Thorverton
Set in the fertile Exe Valley, Thorverton combines agricultural heritage with picture-perfect charm. Its wide village green (called the Bury) hosts occasional cricket matches in summer and transforms into a natural gathering place for residents.
The locally-sourced menu at the Thorverton Arms draws visitors from surrounding areas, but never enough to disturb the village’s peaceful rhythm. The parish church of St Thomas of Canterbury contains remarkable medieval features, including intricately carved bench ends.
The village maintains several treasured traditions, including a May Day celebration and harvest festival, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic rural community life that has largely disappeared elsewhere.
South Devon’s Hidden Treasures
Holbeton
Tucked away in the South Hams, Holbeton remains one of Devon’s best-kept secrets. Its narrow lanes lined with thatched cottages lead to the impressive All Saints Church, known for its ornate rood screen and carved bench ends.
The village sits within easy reach of secluded coves like Mothecombe and Erme Mouth, where you’ll often find more wildlife than people. The Mildmay Colours pub serves excellent food in a building dating back to the 14th century.
Holbeton’s position, set back from the coast but within easy reach of it, means you can enjoy coastal walks without the crowds that flock to better-known South Devon towns.
Noss Mayo
Often overlooked in favour of its more famous South Devon neighbours, Noss Mayo sits on the southern bank of the Yealm Estuary. Together with Newton Ferrers across the water, it creates one of Devon’s most picturesque waterside scenes.
What makes Noss Mayo special is its seclusion—accessible via narrow lanes that discourage casual visitors, it retains a peaceful atmosphere even in high summer. The Swan Inn and The Ship Inn both offer waterside dining where you can watch sailing boats gently bobbing in the estuary.
Walking opportunities abound, with the South West Coast Path providing spectacular cliff-top routes with views across to Plymouth Sound and beyond.
East Prawle
As Devon’s southernmost village, East Prawle feels wonderfully remote. Its position on the rugged Prawle Point gives it a wild, untamed character quite different from the manicured prettiness found elsewhere.
The Pig’s Nose Inn serves as the social hub for this small community and offers authentic character rarely found in more touristy locations. From the village, footpaths lead to secluded coves and dramatic cliff formations that feel a million miles from everyday concerns.
The night skies here are remarkably dark, making East Prawle a perfect spot for stargazers seeking to escape light pollution. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches overhead in spectacular fashion.
When to Visit Devon’s Quiet Villages
Timing your visit carefully can enhance the peaceful experience these villages offer. This table provides guidance on the best times to enjoy Devon’s rural retreats:
| Season | Advantages | Considerations |
| Spring (April-May) | Blossoming hedgerows, newborn lambs, mild weather | Easter can bring brief busy periods |
| Early Summer (June) | Long daylight hours, warm weather, pre-school holidays | Weekend accommodation needs earlier booking |
| Autumn (September-October) | Golden colours, harvest festivals, fruit picking | Some seasonal businesses begin to close |
| Winter (November-February) | Truly peaceful, cosy pub fires, crisp walks | Reduced opening hours, weather can limit activities |
For the ultimate quiet experience, mid-week visits outside school holidays offer the most tranquil village atmosphere.
Getting Around Devon’s Hidden Villages
Most of Devon’s quietest villages have limited public transport connections, making a car essential for exploring thoroughly. However, this self-sufficiency brings the freedom to discover places that coach tours never reach.
Some practical transportation tips:
- Narrow Lanes: Many villages are accessed via single-track roads with passing places—drive slowly and be prepared to reverse
- Parking: Smaller villages may have limited parking—look for village halls or pubs that allow visitors to use their spaces (often with expectation of patronage)
- Walking: Many villages connect via footpaths—ask locally for recommended routes between settlements
- Cycling: Electric bike hire has become increasingly available and offers an excellent way to explore quiet lanes without exhaustion on Devon’s hills
Where to Stay for Village Exploration
Basing yourself within one of these quiet villages provides the most authentic experience. Many feature charming cottages with history dating back centuries, offering features like inglenook fireplaces, exposed beams, and cottage gardens.
For exploring multiple areas, consider these strategic locations:
- North Devon: Staying near Chulmleigh or South Molton provides access to both coastal villages and Exmoor
- Mid-Devon: Crediton area offers excellent access to numerous quiet villages and both north and south coasts
- South Hams: The area around Modbury provides a perfect base for exploring South Devon’s hidden coastal villages
Look for accommodation with these features for the ultimate peaceful retreat:
- Private gardens for morning coffee or evening drinks
- Wood-burning stoves for cosy evenings regardless of weather
- Distance from main roads to ensure peace and quiet
- Well-equipped kitchens for preparing meals from local farm shops
Local Village Life and Etiquette
Experiencing Devon’s quietest villages means encountering communities where traditional values and ways of life continue. To make the most of your visit while respecting local sensibilities:
- Village Shops: Support these vital community hubs where they exist—they often offer local produce you won’t find elsewhere
- Church Buildings: Many are left open during daylight hours—feel free to enter respectfully, making a small donation in the box provided
- Local Events: Village hall noticeboards often advertise community events from quiz nights to produce shows—visitors are typically welcomed warmly
- Driving: Travel slowly through villages, watching for residents walking in roads without pavements
- Photography: Avoid photographing people’s private homes without permission—focus on public buildings and landscapes
Activities for Peaceful Village Days
Devon’s quiet villages offer activities that connect visitors with authentic rural life:
Foraging and Wild Food
Many village locations provide excellent opportunities for seasonal foraging:
- Spring: Wild garlic in woodland areas near villages like Bickleigh
- Summer: Elderflowers for cordial making around Cheriton Fitzpaine
- Autumn: Blackberries, sloes and hazelnuts in hedgerows throughout Devon
- Winter: Various mushroom species in woodland (only with proper identification knowledge)
Local pubs or village shops often sell guides to local edible plants, or you might discover a resident expert willing to share knowledge.
Dawn and Dusk Wildlife Watching
The quietest times in already-peaceful villages offer magical wildlife encounters:
- Early Morning: Deer grazing on the edges of woodland near Holbeton
- Evening: Bats emerging from church towers in Berrynarbor
- Night: Owls hunting across fields around Thorverton
Bring binoculars and move quietly for the best chance of special sightings.
Traditional Crafts and Skills
Many villages maintain traditional crafts, either through resident artisans or workshops:
- Basketmaking: Often found in villages with historic willow growing traditions
- Blacksmithing: Some villages maintain working forges for demonstrations
- Woodturning: Local craftspeople sometimes offer short courses or demonstrations
Ask at village shops or pubs about local craftspeople who welcome visitors.
Planning Your Devon Village Retreat
When planning your peaceful Devon getaway, consider these practical suggestions:
- Duration: Allow at least 3-4 days to truly settle into the slower rhythm of village life
- Local Knowledge: Bring Ordnance Survey maps (OL 20 and OL 28 cover much of Devon) for discovering footpaths between villages
- Supplies: While supporting village shops is recommended, having basic supplies means you’re not dependent on limited opening hours
- Weather Preparation: Devon’s microclimate means conditions can change quickly—bring layers and waterproofs even in summer
Devon’s Village Tranquillity Awaits
Devon’s quietest villages offer an increasingly rare commodity in our busy modern lives—genuine peace and tranquillity in beautiful surroundings. These hidden gems provide not just pretty cottages and scenic views but a chance to experience a gentler pace of life connected to the natural rhythms of the countryside.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend hidden away from everyday pressures, a family holiday where children can safely explore, or a solo retreat to recharge your batteries, Devon’s peaceful villages deliver authentic experiences that will draw you back year after year. With properties ranging from snug cottages for two to spacious accommodation for extended family gatherings, Short Stay Homes has the perfect accommodation for your quiet Devon adventure.
