Devon isn’t just about picturesque villages and stunning coastlines—it’s a place where you can find exciting, authentic tours that showcase its natural beauty, intriguing history, and lively culture. Among the options we love, the Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari stands out for its exhilarating speed and wildlife encounters, including dolphins and seals. It’s a perfect way to see the coast from a different perspective while getting your adrenaline pumping. If history is more your vibe, the Ilfracombe Harbour Ghost Tour offers a spooky glance into the region’s supernatural tales, proving that Devon’s stories go beyond the surface. For those eager to learn about local legends or enjoy active pursuits like coasteering, Devon truly delivers with a wide array of experiences.
What makes Devon special for tours is its diverse landscape, ranging from rugged coastlines to wild moorlands, plus its rich maritime heritage and literary connections—notably linked to Agatha Christie and Fawlty Towers. Whether you’re after a thrilling boat ride, a history walk, or a kayaking adventure, you’ll find tours tailored to your interests and energy level. You can explore the English Riviera, the Jurassic Coast, or the Dartmoor National Park, with options that range from family-friendly outings to adrenaline-pumping escapades.
Below is a carefully curated list of the 15 best tours in Devon, highlighting what makes each unique and worth your time. Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, cultural insights, or adventure sports, this guide helps you choose the perfect experience.
1. Torquay Coastal RIB Seafari
This fast-paced boat trip along the stunning coastline of Torbay and The English Riviera is perfect for anyone craving adventure and wildlife sightings. For just around $48, you’ll enjoy about an hour of speeding past coves, caves, and limestone arches, with chances to see seals basking in the sun and maybe even dolphins. The trip visits Thatcher Rock, a well-known seal haul-out site, and Ore Stone, a bird reserve home to guillemots, shags, and oyster catchers. The real highlight is the possibility of spotting dolphins—something that keeps visitors returning.
The trip has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 333 reviews, with many praising the friendly skipper and the thrilling experience. One reviewer notes, “Absolutely brilliant trip! Managed to find the dolphins too.” This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a short, exciting water adventure with a focus on wildlife and coastal scenery.
Bottom Line: It’s a lively, family-friendly option that’s ideal if you want a quick dose of sea adventure with memorable wildlife encounters.
2. The story of Agatha Christie’s extraordinary life
For around $27, you can join a 2.5-hour walking tour exploring Torbay through the eyes of the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie. This tour delves into her fascinating life, connecting her stories to the streets and landmarks of Torquay. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s a relaxed way to uncover little-known facts and trivia about her childhood and inspirations. Limited to six people, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for literature lovers or anyone curious about the local connection to her writing.
Reviews praise the guide’s expertise and the engaging stories—one calls it “the highlight of our trip.” It’s a perfect choice for history and literary enthusiasts who want an insightful yet manageable tour.
Bottom Line: An intimate, lively walk that brings Agatha Christie’s story to life, making it ideal for those interested in her connection to Torquay.
3. Coasteering
Offering a thrilling adventure, the Coasteering tour is a full-on activity that combines jumping off rocks, cave exploring, and cliff walking. Priced at $82.62, it includes expert guidance to ensure safety as you scramble across rugged coastlines. The route is bespoke, so whether you’re a beginner or experienced thrill-seeker, guides tailor the experience based on your comfort level. Participants are provided with wetsuits, helmets, and buoyancy aids, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Guests rave about the variety of activities and the personalized attention. One reviewer describes it as “exhilarating and safe,” praising the knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who want an immersive, active experience with a touch of Devon’s wild coast.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for those seeking a customized, adrenaline-fueled coast exploration in a safe environment.
4. 30-Minute Raptor RIB Ride Activity in Torquay
For a short but intense thrill, the 30-minute RIB ride packs plenty of excitement into half an hour. At $55.08, this speedy boat ride takes you from Torquay, offering dramatic maneuvers and a chance to see secluded coves and islands. The Raptor RIB is renowned for its accelerations up to 73 MPH, giving you a true adrenaline rush, along with wildlife sightings like seabirds and possibly seals or dolphins. Professional crew members provide full safety gear and a detailed briefing, ensuring everyone feels confident during the high-speed adventure.
Guests describe it as “fantastic,” with some noting the informative commentary that adds to the experience. It’s an ideal option for families or groups wanting a quick dose of excitement with spectacular coastal views.
Bottom Line: A perfect lightning-fast thrill ride with wildlife spotting—short on time but big on fun.
5. Coasteering Geopark Adventure In Torquay
If you want the coasteering thrill but prefer a less hands-on experience, this guided tour at $61.98 is perfect. The activity includes all gear—wetsuit, helmet, gloves—and an instructor to navigate the route through caves, ancient forests, and along the coastline. It’s designed to be safe and accessible, with the added bonus of learning about pirates and geology along the way.
Guests love how seamless and hassle-free the experience is, with one reviewer mentioning the “fascinating tales” and the “buzz of exploring sea caves.” It suits travelers who want active exploration without the logistics of sourcing gear or planning routes.
Bottom Line: A guided, worry-free coasteering trip ideal for families or adventurers interested in history and geology.
6. Ilfracombe Harbour Ghost Tour
If ghost stories are your thing, this 1.5-hour tour at $19.22 offers a spooky walk through Ilfracombe’s harbor area. Led by a talented storyteller, it uncovers tales of spirits haunting pubs and streets, bringing the town’s supernatural side to life. Tours are small—capped at 15 people—for an intimate, atmospheric experience.
Reviewers mention how enthralling the stories are and how the guide’s storytelling makes the history genuinely engaging. It’s suitable for families, couples, or anyone interested in the paranormal and local legends.
Bottom Line: A fun, immersive way to explore Ilfracombe’s supernatural stories in a small-group setting.
7. Guided Wildlife and Sea Cave Kayak Safari in English Riviera
This eco-friendly kayak safari at $75.44 lasts about 3 hours, taking you through caves and along the coast where dolphins and seals are sometimes spotted. The tour is perfect for first-time paddlers and families, with training and safety gear provided. You’ll stop on a secluded beach to toast marshmallows over a beach fire and learn about the UNESCO Geopark status of the area.
Guests praise the enthusiastic guide, with one calling it “a brilliant experience.” The tour combines wildlife sightings with a hands-on exploration of Devon’s coast, making it suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: An active, educational, and scenic adventure—great for families or eco-conscious travelers.
8. Gin Making Experience
For around $82, you can learn how to craft your own gin in a private class in Torbay. Using a traditional copper pot, you’ll distill your own 500ml bottle and enjoy drinks during the process. The tour provides personalized instruction, and you can choose to start in the morning or afternoon.
Reviews highlight how enjoyable and educational the experience is, with many appreciating the hands-on approach. It’s ideal for spirits enthusiasts or groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: A fun, intimate activity that combines learning, tasting, and taking home your creation.
9. 90 Minute Coastal Explorer in Torquay
At $64.87, this 1.5-hour boat cruise offers an excellent way to see the coastline without the effort of walking. The route takes in sites such as Berry Head, Thatcher Rock, and Babbacombe with opportunities to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds. The boat caps at 12 passengers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Guests love how relaxing and scenic it is, with one reviewer saying, “Very enjoyable and easy way to see the coast.” It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, wildlife-rich outing.
Bottom Line: A low-key, scenic cruise perfect for wildlife lovers and those wanting a gentle introduction to Devon’s coast.
10. Wooden Duck Painting or Pottery Painting
For just $6.88, families and friends can enjoy artistic fun at Arty Boat, a quirky studio in Exmouth. Participants can paint a wooden animal or object—perfect for all ages, from 4 to 94. The activity lasts about 2.5 hours and is suitable for families, groups, and celebrations.
Reviewers mention the value for money and the enjoyment of creating a personal keepsake. It’s a relaxing, creative option for a rainy day or a special gathering.
Bottom Line: An inexpensive, creative activity suitable for all ages, ideal for family groups or friends seeking a casual art session.
11. The Fawlty Tours walking experience
For $20.61, this 1.5-hour walk explores the origins of Fawlty Towers in Torquay. Led by a local guide, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about the series and visit notable filming locations. The tour includes fun facts about John Cleese, Connie Booth, and the show’s connection to local hotels.
Guests love the entertaining narration and the nostalgic vibe. One reviewer calls it “a must-do for fans,” highlighting how it combines humor and local history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fans of classic comedy who want a light, entertaining look at Torquay’s filming past.
12. Dartmoor Tour
This 8-hour private Land Rover trip at $325.75 offers a comprehensive look at Dartmoor’s rugged beauty. You’ll visit Ashburton, Princetown, and Foggintor Quarry, with chances to see wild ponies and cattle. The tour is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Guests praise the smooth ride and the informative commentary about the landscape and local stories. One says, “A fantastic way to see Dartmoor’s remote sites,” emphasizing the ease of access and personalized route.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a full-day exploration of Dartmoor’s iconic scenery with a private guide.
13. Half Day Sea kayak Guided Tour
For $65.80, this 4-hour kayaking trip offers a chance to experience Devon’s coastline from the water. You’ll explore secluded bays and caves, with the possibility of seeing seals and dolphins. The tour includes all safety gear and training, making it accessible for beginners and families.
Guests appreciate the calm pace and the wildlife sightings, with one reviewer calling it “a brilliant experience.” It’s suitable for adventurers and nature lovers looking for a relaxing yet active day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic kayaking adventure perfect for those seeking personal space and wildlife encounters.
14. Walking Tour of Exmouth in East Devon
This 1.5-hour walk at $27.35 takes you from the Jurassic Coast at Orcombe Point to the Exmouth Estuary, unveiling stories of pirates, smugglers, and local fishermen. Led by a passionate guide, it offers a balanced mix of history and scenery, suitable for all ages.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the interesting facts, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a gentle, informative introduction to Exmouth.
Bottom Line: A manageable, engaging walk that combines coastal scenery with local stories.
15. Glider Plane Tour of the Jurassic Coast
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view, the Glider Plane Tour offers a spectacular aerial perspective of Devon’s Jurassic Coast. Starting at around $308, you’ll fly in a motor glider with a qualified instructor, soaring above cliffs, beaches, and fishing harbors. The tour includes a pre-flight briefing and opportunities for in-flight photos.
Guests describe it as “breathtaking,” with incredible panoramic views that can’t be matched from land. It’s best suited for adventure seekers or aviation enthusiasts wanting a luxury experience.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable way to see Devon’s coastline from the sky, ideal for special occasions and thrill-seekers.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Devon
When selecting your ideal Devon tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For a quick thrill, the 30-Minute RIB Ride delivers adrenaline and scenic views, while the Dartmoor Tour is perfect if you want a full day immersed in nature. If history and literature excite you, the Agatha Christie walking tour offers a personalized, engaging experience.
For families or those with limited time, activities like the Wooden Duck Painting or Exmouth walking tour provide fun and educational options. Budget travelers may prefer shorter tours like the Ghost Tour, while adventure lovers should consider the coasteering or kayak safari.
Book early, especially for popular activities like the glider plane or Dartmoor tour, to ensure availability during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Devon offers a diverse range of tours that cater to different interests and energy levels. From the speed and wildlife of the Torquay RIB Seafari to the literary insights of the Agatha Christie walk, there’s something for all. For thrill-seekers, activities like coasteering or the speed boat ride guarantee adrenaline and fun. History buffs will enjoy exploring Ilfracombe’s ghost stories or walking through Exmouth’s coastal history.
If you’re traveling with family or simply want a memorable experience, consider the Wildlife kayak safari or a creative art activity like pottery painting. No matter your preferences, Devon’s tours promise a handful of memorable moments. Remember to book ahead and pick the experiences that best fit your travel style and schedule. Enjoy your trip—Devon’s adventures are waiting!
