What does summer mean to you? To us, it means fresh food, switching-off on holiday, and fully embracing the outdoors around you, even if that's just your local park. Here in North Devon, we're rather spoilt in the outdoors category. Being based in South Molton means that we're right on the edge of Exmoor National Park which is home to spectacularly dramatic views, and something we feel very lucky to be so close to. We're also not too far from North Devon's beautiful beaches which is also a real privilege and if you couldn't already tell, we basically just love where we live. And more than ever we get a lot of visitors throughout the summer, so if you are one of them, then today is your lucky day as we've planned a perfect weekend in Devon for you!

Where to stay 

Let's start with the most important thing - where you'll be staying. There is no shortage of gorgeous places to stay around here, but one place we must recommend is Lower Birch Farmhouse. Tucked away nicely in one of Exmoor's beautiful valleys, this independent set of holiday rentals is truly the perfect place to stay if you're looking for somewhere that feels far away from busy life but still close to everything you need. Each of the three rentals offer a peaceful haven with nothing but the sounds of nature and views that go on forever. It's location couldn't be better - with the rugged, rolling hills of Exmoor on one side and dreamy beaches like Saunton, Croyde and Woolacombe on the other, all just a short drive away. Basically, it's just the perfect place to stay, and belongs to our very own Kate (so we may be biased, but once you see it for yourself, you'll get it). Do check out their website here. And below are a few photos we took in her lovely Hut recently (but check out their website for proper photos!)...

Larry the Lobster paid a visit!

The view from The Hut: 

Excellent artwork inside The Barn:

What to do

Ok, so now that you've got your accommodation booked, let's think about what you can get up to when you're here. We're proud to say that there is more than enough to get on with in North Devon. Just here in South Molton we've got the award-winning pannier market that boasts over 60 stalls of all kinds and runs every Thursday and Saturday all year. We always recommend visiting South Molton on these days as the town really does come alive then. Plus, there are so many other fabulous shops and cafes to enjoy in the town too.

As we've already mentioned, South Molton is the gateway to Exmoor, so if you fancy venturing out of town and exploring some pretty spectacular views which are still fairly undiscovered by tourists, then pack a picnic and head on your way! We've got plenty of local walking books that feature this beautiful National Park so if you pay us a visit on your way then we'll be able to find you a handy guide for your travels.

When the summer weather is as hot as it has been this year, there is nothing better than a dip in the energetic waves of North Devon's beaches. Have a refreshing paddle, or try your hand at some surfing thanks to the many courses that are available along the coast. Saunton, Croyde and Putsborough are all brilliant surfing spots. Or if you just fancy taking in the views then head up to Marine Drive where you can park up, buy a coffee and some lunch from The Porthole, and simply enjoy.

This is Woolacombe beach, taken from Marine Drive. As you can see, one heck of a view:

For the foodies

It wouldn't be the full Devon experience if you didn't taste some of our local cuisine on your visit. There are many eateries that offer cream teas, just remember to assemble it in the correct way: cream first, jam second. That is very important (sorry Cornwall). Fish and chips are particularly excellent down here and there is an abundance of places to enjoy them in too such as the award-winning Squires. And you simply must try a Hockings ice cream whilst you're here, available at many beaches and parks in North Devon and very beloved to us locals. It's a family-run business, it's ice cream is also award-winning and of course it's completely delicious.

A special souvenir to keep forever

And finally, as your trip comes to an end and you start to pack your bags to get ready for the journey home, you might think to yourself 'I want to remember this trip forever'. And we can't think of a better way of doing that than with the Emma Bridgewater Devon mug. It perfectly encompasses all of the wonders of this area, and then every time you make a cuppa in this mug, you'll be reminded of those happy memories and this wonderful place. Or if you know someone else that fell in love with it, it's a perfect gift!

As it is our home, we could go on and on about North Devon and all of it's many special features. This blog post was a way for us to include just a few, so we hope it's been helpful if you've got a trip planned. And if not, then we hope we've inspired your next trip! And as for you locals, perhaps this post will do to you as it did to us and remind you of how lucky we are to live here. Isn't it just the best?

We hope to see you soon!