It’s so exciting to plan your holiday. Here are my personal recommendations for unforgettable days out (and a few well-earned treats too):
When you stay at Higher Longford Cottages there’s something special around every corner. I can’t wait for you to experience it.
Living here on the edge of Dartmoor, I’m lucky enough to enjoy the moorland magic every day, and I’ve picked up a few tips along the way. If you’re planning to make the most of your stay, it’s worth booking a few experiences before you arrive. Some places get snapped up quickly—especially in the holidays—and I’d hate for you to miss out!
🚲 Hire a Bike and Discover The Granite Way
Devon’s cycle routes are just stunning, and one of the most scenic is The Granite Way, running between Okehampton and Lydford. It’s mostly off-road, smooth and accessible, with jaw-dropping views of the moor and viaducts to cycle over. There are plenty of places to stop for coffee or a picnic along the way.
You can hire bikes in Okehampton (including electric ones if you fancy an easier ride!). Booking ahead is a good idea, especially during school holidays.
You can, of course, bring your own bicycles with you and we have great storage facilities and battery charging arrangements for you at the cottages.
The Granite Way Cycle Hub I Okehampton
🐠 Visit Plymouth Aquarium – Feed the Turtles!
A great family day out (especially if the weather turns bad!), the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is the largest in the UK and only about 45 minutes from the cottages. The underwater tunnel is amazing—but the real highlight? You can book a turtle feeding experience and get up close with these gentle giants. Kids love it, and honestly… so do the grown-ups.
🏄 Take a Surf Lesson in Bude
Fancy a splash in the sea? Bude, just under an hour away, is one of North Cornwall’s best surf spots. Even if you’ve never been on a board before, the local surf schools are brilliant with beginners and make it a lot of fun. Book a group or private lesson and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves.
Look for:
- Big Blue Surf School
- Bude Surfing Experience
Tip: Bring warm layers for after your session—Devon sun isn’t always tropical!
🐴 Horse Riding at Cholwell Riding Stables
If riding across open moorland on horseback sounds like a dream, Cholwell Riding Stables is just the place. It’s a friendly, family-run yard with wonderful horses and ponies, suitable for all levels. Whether it’s a gentle trek or a canter over the hills, they’ll take good care of you. This one’s very popular—especially in summer—so do give them a ring ahead of time.
🍰 Afternoon Tea at Strawberry Fields
One of my favourite spots for a treat! Strawberry Fields in Lifton serves a glorious afternoon tea, complete with homemade scones, cakes, and sandwiches. There’s a great farm shop too, and if you’re visiting in summer, the pick-your-own strawberries are always a hit with the kids (and the adults!). Afternoon tea is by booking only—so make sure to plan ahead. There is events on throughout the year which do get booked up quickly. Check out their website and book in advance. Whether it’s tulips, strawberrys, wild flowers or Halloween events it is well worth a visit.
👉 strawberryfieldslifton.co.uk
🌼 The Garden House – Head Gardener’s Tour
If you’re a garden lover (or just enjoy a peaceful wander), The Garden House in nearby Buckland Monachorum is absolutely beautiful. Enjoy a walk round the gardens with a cream tea in the café. Purchase a few lovely plants to take back to your garden at home to remind you of your holiday. For a really special experience, their Head Gardener’s Tour gives you a real insight into what makes this place so special, with stories, advice, and hidden corners you might otherwise miss. It’s one of my favourite peaceful days out. Booking is a must for the tour.
🎣 Fishing at Milemead Fisheries
Just a short drive from the cottages, Milemead Fisheries is a peaceful spot with well-stocked lakes and a stretch of river too. It’s ideal for a quiet day of coarse or fly fishing, whether you’re a keen angler or just fancy trying something new. Day tickets are available, but it’s a good idea to book in advance—especially at weekends.
💆♀️ Spa Day at Boringdon Hall
For something truly indulgent, I always recommend a spa day at Gaia Spa, inside the stunning Boringdon Hall. It’s about 40 minutes from us, but well worth the drive for a day of total relaxation. Treatments, pools, saunas—it’s all beautifully done. Spaces go quickly, so if you’re eyeing a massage or facial, book ahead.
👉 boringdonhall.co.uk/gaia-spa
🧗♂️ Rock Climbing on Dartmoor
If you’re feeling adventurous, Dartmoor’s granite tors offer an amazing natural climbing playground. There are several local guides who’ll provide lessons and kit—it’s a brilliant way to get up close and personal with the landscape. Even beginners are welcome. Have a look at Crag 2 Mountain or Adventure Okehampton for guided experiences.
🧭 Learn to Navigate the Moor
The moor is vast, wild, and beautiful—but it’s also easy to get a little lost if you wander too far! Why not book a navigation course and learn how to read a map and compass like a pro? It’s a fun and empowering experience, and it really opens up the moorland. Great for families or anyone wanting to explore with more confidence.
Try:
Experience Dartmoor
There’s so much to enjoy around Tavistock and Dartmoor, whether you’re here for the walking, the wildlife, or the cream teas (I recommend starting with all three!).
No matter if you have a large budget for “out of this world activities”, or you’re looking for a holiday with free activities, Devon & Cornwall is just packed with things to do and see. Whilst this blog is based on items you can book and pay for in advance you can easily holiday on a budget. Look for my blogs on free activities near the cottages.
I’m always happy to help if you have questions or need local advice—just pop over and say hello.
Can’t wait to welcome you to Higher Longford Cottages—your Dartmoor adventure starts here 🌿
Warm wishes,
Michelle
Higher Longford Cottages
Tavistock, Devon
Please contact all the suggested businesses directly and check their websites for information.