Child-friendly holidays in South Devon have long made the region a favourite for UK families, and the area around Kingsbridge and Salcombe is especially appealing for those travelling with children. From safe sandy beaches and wildlife encounters to hands-on attractions and outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Here are some of the best things to do with kids near Kingsbridge and Salcombe whilst staying at our child-friendly holiday cottage…
Family-Friendly Beaches
Beaches are always a highlight for children, and you’ll be spoilt for choice here.
- Blackpool Sands is a beautiful Blue Flag beach with café, shop, toilets, showers, and water sports hire, making it easy to spend a full day by the sea.
- Slapton Sands stretches for two miles and is dog-friendly year-round. The beach is backed by Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve, where families can explore trails and spot wildlife.
- Bantham Beach is perfect for sandcastles, paddling, and beginner surf lessons, with sweeping views across to Burgh Island.
- East Portlemouth has smaller coves such as Mill Bay and Fisherman’s Cove, shallow water, and rock pools at low tide – ideal for younger children.
Wildlife and Nature
For families who enjoy exploring the outdoors, there’s plenty to see and do.
- Slapton Ley Nature Reserve is the largest freshwater lake in the south west and offers opportunities to spot birds, insects, and rare plants.
- A short drive brings you to Paignton Zoo, home to thousands of animals and plants from around the world.
- Totnes Rare Breeds Farm provides close-up encounters with owls, goats, and sheep, while the Dartmoor Otter and Butterfly Sanctuary introduces children to some of the region’s most fascinating wildlife.
Family Fun Days Out in South Devon
South Devon is filled with attractions designed for families.
- Woodlands Leisure Park, near Totnes, is one of the South West’s largest adventure parks with indoor and outdoor rides, play areas, and water attractions.
- Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh offers daily shows, animal handling, and tractor rides – always a hit with younger children.
- Crealy Adventure Park provides rollercoasters, rides, and themed play zones for a full day of excitement.
For those who love trains, the South Devon Railway runs heritage steam journeys between Totnes and Buckfastleigh, offering a nostalgic experience alongside riverside views.
History and Culture
If you’d like to mix fun with a little learning, there are plenty of historic sites that appeal to children.
- Overbeck’s near Salcombe combines subtropical gardens with quirky collections, often a surprise hit with families.
- Greenway, once Agatha Christie’s holiday home, is set in a stunning location on the River Dart.
- Start Point Lighthouse offers tours and dramatic coastal views, which children often find exciting.
- A little further afield, Exeter Cathedral impresses with its size and architecture, while Castle Drogo shows how the last castle in England was built.
Adventures on the Water
With the sea so close, it’s no surprise that water-based activities are popular.
- Salcombe Dinghy Sailing runs boat hire and lessons for those who want to try sailing.
- Sea Kayak Salcombe offers guided tours, rentals, and coaching for all abilities.
- Families with older children may enjoy sessions with Salcombe Powerboat School, where safety and fun go hand in hand.
The Perfect Base for Families
Staying at Kingfisher Cottage puts you in easy reach of all these attractions. Based in the South Hams countryside, you’re just ten minutes from beaches, close to Kingsbridge and Dartmouth, and a short drive from Salcombe and Totnes. With so much to do nearby, you’ll never be short of ways to entertain the children.
From beaches and wildlife to castles and adventure parks, Kingsbridge and Salcombe truly offer some of the best things to do with kids in South Devon. Whether your family prefers relaxed days by the sea or action-packed adventures, this corner of the county provides a child-friendly holiday everyone will remember.