12 HUGE mistakes people make when visiting Devon

If you’re planning a trip to Devon, there are a few particular things that you shouldn’t do. 

From making your scones wrong to not knowing Dartmoor’s code of conduct, there are a few things that you might want to avoid while you’re here!

Here are a few tips for things you should NEVER do when visiting Devon. 

Go for jam first!

two cream scones with strawberry jam

Devon cream teas always have the cream first and then the jam, which contrasts with Cornwall (where the jam goes first and then the cream). 

Make sure you do your scones right depending on which side of the Tamar you’re on! 

Mispronounce local place names

The beach at Teignmouth, Devon, England.

This isn’t as much of an issue as it is in nearby Cornwall (where most many are Celtic and are constantly mispronounced!) but a few names in Devon are often got wrong too. 

The most common is “Teignmouth” which is pronounced “Tin-muth” (and the “River Teign” is the “River Tin”).

“Bovey Tracey” is another common mistake – say it like “Buv-ee”. 

“Cockwood” is not pronounced as its spelt, but instead “Cock-ud” (not sure which is worse…)

And finally, “Woolfardisworthy”, which was designarted one of the UK’s most mispronounced names in 2023, is pronounced… I’m not sure. I’d say “wool-far-dis-worthy”, but others may correct me!

Park irresponsibly

I’ve said this in my Cornwall post, but please, please, do not park your car on the beach.

I’ve seen articles about cars that have been washed to sea too many times!

Also, be mindful where you park on Dartmoor and in other wild areas – avoid the side of the road and verges, and go for official car parks instead. 

Feed the Dartmoor ponies

solitary white wild horse in Dartmoor at sunset

Feeding the Dartmoor ponies is harmful to their health and can teach them to approach cars and people, which can be dangerous.

Plus, while they’re cute, they are still wild animals – and wild animals can be unpredictable!

Underestimate the tides

Beaches like Bantham and Bigbury have significant tidal changes. At Exmouth, you can walk from the main beach to Sandy Bay Beach at low tide, but certainly not at high. 

Check tide times to avoid getting stranded or soaking your gear – or worse. 

Ignore the moorland weather

Another thing that should never be underestimated in Dartmoor is its changeable weather. 

I’d recommend avoiding the moorland in foggy conditions, and unless you have proper training and know the moor well, sticking to popular hiking routes. 

And definitely don’t set off on a walk without proper clothing, a map and knowledge of the conditions.

See some more things you shouldn’t do in Dartmoor here.

Forget cash for rural spots

I’ll be honest… I live in Devon and I very, very rarely have cash on me. 

But every so often when I’m out and about, I’ll park my car somewhere that needs cash payment or I’ll go into a small shop where they don’t take card for small purchases. 

So a bit of cash can be helpful – especially if you’re in more rural areas where the nearest ATM is miles away!

Drop litter

This is something that you should avoid anywhere in the world, but it’s especially prudent in Devon’s gorgeous landscapes. 

Leaving rubbish behind, especially in places like Exmoor or the South West Coast Path, harms the environment and ruins the scenery for others.

And while trash inland can be swept into the sea, the closer you are to the beach the more likely you are to pollute the sea. 

Compare Devon to Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall have a friendly rivalry (I live in Devon but my family and heritage is Cornish, so I’m never sure which side I’m on!), but if you’re a visitor to the region, I’d recommend appreciating both for what they offer. 

Cornwall may have better beaches (although Devon’s are still amazing!), but Devon wins when it comes to a diversity of terrains with miles of brooding moorland. 

Rush through the villages

Beautiful Clovelly, North Devon

There are so many beautiful villages in Devon – see a list of the best coastal ones here

But I’d always recommend taking your time when travelling through them – don’t just treat them as quick photo stops. 

While there may not be many attractions per se, the beauty of these villages is hanging out in local pubs, chatting to people and taking in the vibe of the place. 

Dismiss pasties outside Cornwall

I’m a bit reluctant to include this one – my Cornish grandma moved to Devon and never did really accept the Devonshire pasty – but they are made in their plenty here (and some sources point to them actually being invented here). 

Devon pasties traditionally have a crimp on the top, rather than on the side, with a range of fillings (including the beef, potato, swede and onion that traditional Cornish pasties are made from). 

But whatever you do, do not call them Cornish pasties. Only pasties made in Cornwall can be called Cornish pasties (they have PGI status under EU protected food names legislation). 

Underplan public transport journeys

Using public transport to get to Devon? Great, it’s entirely possible!

But do check where you’re visiting and confirm that it’s on public transport routes. The main train line connects London with Tiverton, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Totnes and Plymouth, with a slower SWR service calling in Honiton and Axminster. 

Branch lines connect Exeter with Exmouth, Paignton, Torquay, Okehampton and Barstaple and there’s another branch that leads to towns and villages in the Tamar Valley.

Buses are readily available in the main towns and cities, and many villages will have a bus service, but double-check it before booking if you will be needing it. Sometimes the buses only come once a day, and not on weekends or bank holidays! 

Are you ready to visit Devon?

Devon’s a glorious county – I’m biased, but I think it’s one of the best to visit in the UK! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a wonderful time in the region. 

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