A fast approaching summer means only one thing – summer holidays with the kids! With this in mind, we thought we’d collect some of the best children’s activities in South Hams to make planning the perfect family holiday in South Devon that little bit easier.
Occombe Farm near Marldon is a working farm that offers free entry and parking. While there is plenty to see and do on the farm itself – including a wartime garden to explore and animals to meet – the site also features a two kilometre nature trail through beautiful local woodland that is bustling with wildlife. This summer, Occombe farm is offering a kids activity pack giving your child the chance to discover mega and mini beasts, brass rubbings and more!
If you and your family are looking to escape from the summer heat and cool down, then Splashdown Quaywest is just the ticket. Located in Torbay, this outdoor water park has a range of pools, flumes and slides – perfect for those who want to relax and those looking for a thrill. With special pools and facilities for under sevens and a variety of rides, there’s something at Splashdown for children and adults of all ages, meaning no member of the family will be left out.
Alternatively, why not embrace your inner pirate with a trip to Dartmouth Castle. This 600 year old coastal fort will be over-run by pirates from July 24th to August 31st – bringing history to life before your eyes! Complete the experience with a ferryboat trip to or from the castle to make this an excellent family adventure.
If you visit Dartmouth Castle, be sure to explore the rugged, local south coastal areas, Sugary and Castle coves. The small pebble beaches are surrounded by trees and cliffs and make a wonderfully secluded and relaxing picnic spot.
If you can’t stand to let the pirate adventure end, then step onboard the Golden Hind. This replica of the famous ship – that first circumnavigated the globe while captained by Sir Francis Drake – has been a staple of Brixham harbour for over 50-years and features five decks to explore. New for 2017 are “Pirate Thursdays” at the Golden Hind. These family friendly days feature a range of pirate themed activities including shows, workshops and special events for all the little budding pirates out there. Upcoming Pirate Thursdays fall on July 27th, August 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st.
A visit to the Babbacombe Model Village is perfect for families with younger children. Just north of central Torquay, the Babbacombe Model Village is home to over 13,000 tiny residents, with their homes located amongst four acres of carefully maintained, award winning gardens. Featuring recreations of the last six decades of British living, mum and dad can enjoy the antics of recognisable scenes, while the kids can enjoy filling out a free spotter sheet to see what fantastic sights they can find – watch out for the fire-breathing dragon!
With so many great activities and attractions on offer, South Hams is a fantastic venue for this year’s south coast holiday. Galmpton Touring Park, located between Brixham and Paignton, is a great central hub from which to launch your family holiday being within easy driving (or boating) distance of everything we’ve mentioned here! Why not enjoy South Hams this summer?
