Where to stop on the way to Devon & Cornwall
Every year around this time we google the same thing: “Where to stop on the way to Devon / Cornwall.”
What we’re looking for is somewhere independent and interesting, that isn’t too far from the main road (and doesn’t take us down more tiny roads). We need somewhere the kids can run and we can refuel. And we’re hoping for a feel-good stop that makes the journey that much easier (and memorable in a positive way).
Like a National Trust that feels magical and like we’re in a movie. Or an incredible bakery that makes the best sourdough (we would probably drive anywhere for a bakery). Or a cute countryside pub with a beer garden and great food.
Here’s our round-up of the best places that we’ve found to stop on the way to Devon or Cornwall. Hopefully, these will help you feel like your holiday has already started or hasn’t yet ended.
Wiltshire
Stourhead
Stourhead
The Boot Inn
The Boot Inn
This is a great antidote to the Stonehenge traffic. Dating back to the 17th century, this charming pub has a gorgeous beer garden to stretch legs and classic country pub fare made from locally sourced ingredients if car snacks aren’t cutting it.
Stourhead (National Trust)
One of the UK’s most enchanting places Stourhead is just off the A303. Though it’s not a quick stop, the stunning 18th-century landscape garden complete with classical temples, tranquil lakes, and vibrant floral displays, is a welcome respite from a long car journey. You’ll need to be a member or buy a day pass to wander the grounds and take in the estate's historic Palladian mansion, but you can also take a route beyond the perimeter that goes through picturesque woodlands. Another find Alfred’s Tower is worth a look too but its more of an effort to get to (think more narrow lanes). You can eat in the cafe, The Spread Eagle pub in the village or picnic on the lawn with gorgeous views.
Somerset
Teals
Montacute House
Jordan’s Courtyard
Fleet Air Museum
We often get stuck in traffic on the A303 right around here, so if you’re looking to replace your frustration with some wonder divert to the Fleet Air Museum. Aviation history comes to life with an impressive collection of over 100 aircraft. Our kids particularly love the interactive exhibits and flight simulators that offer a hands-on experience (though these would appeal to all ages). There are more than enough stories of naval aviation to keep you interested (including the largest collection of Royal Navy aircraft in Europe.) Not a quick stop, but a fascinating one, that will either start or keep going those holiday vibes.
Teals
An easy stop directly off the A303, Teal’s has become one of our go-to places for taking a quick break. Offering farm-fresh groceries, locally sourced treats, and artisan goods you can shop for your picnic or that first night meal. Or stay a while in the cafe (which has a lovely outdoor seating area). You can also stretch your legs by wandering some of the countryside pathways (Teals is based on one of Somerset’s famed ley lines).
Lytes Cary Manor
Another charming National Trust property, step back in time at Lytes Cary Manor. Explore the medieval manor house, stroll through beautiful Arts and Crafts inspired gardens, and treat yourself to the tearoom. For the kids, there’s a Natural Play Area. If you need a longer stay, you can also book an overnight here.
Montacute House
Situated in a gorgeous village (the kind you expect the family of the lead from a rom-com to live) Montacute House is a gorgeous Elizabethan mansion. Wander through the grand house, admire the impressive collection of portraits, and relax in the stunning gardens. Owned by the National Trust, Montacute offers a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
The Kitchen at Jordans Courtyard
Offering a menu of fresh, locally sourced dishes in a relaxing setting, The Kitchen at Jordan’s Courtyard is a great food stop. Sit inside the light-filled cafe or on the terrace. Perfect for travelers and food enthusiasts alike. While here also check out The Pastry Bench bakery and wellness and yoga options (maybe one will coincide with your journey).
The Flintock Inn
Nestled on the Somerset/ Devon border and just off the A303, the Flintlock Inn is a charming countryside pub offering hearty meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy locally sourced dishes, real ales, and the kid-friendly pub garden.
Devon
Buckfast Butterfly Farm
Dartington Estate
Hog and Hedge
Darts Farm
Darts Farm has over the past 50 years evolved from a farm shop to an award-winning lifestyle and dining destination. Shop the food hall full of fresh, local produce and artisan food (we particularly like the ice cream and baked goods). The Farm Table has been named one of “Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants’ in 2024. There’s even Vineyard Tours and a Maize Maze. Set within the beautiful Devon countryside, there are also some easy walks. Just check the traffic before turning off your main route as it can get busy around here.
Castle Drogo
While not the quickest detour, the majestic Castle Drogo (run by the National Trust), perched above the Teign Gorge, will make your journey memorable. The last castle to be built in England — in the twentieth century by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens — is captivating. The walks up to it and the views around it are well worth a visit. If you need a longer stop, you can also take scenic walks in the surrounding area.
Hog & Hedge
Not your usual service station, Hog and Hedge (an easy find just off the A30) offers fresh, locally sourced food and specialty hand-roasted coffee. A place with a mission, Hog and Hedge promote low food miles, supports small suppliers and uses packaging made from plants and not plastic. Enjoy a homely atmosphere while helping people and the planet.
Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary and Buckfast Butterfly Farm
We don’t know quite why otters and butterflies go so well together but they do. Wandering through the butterfly house can feel magical as they fly around you; while there is something so fun about watching the otters outside get playful. Try to time your stop for one of the otter feedings.
Dartington Estate
We’re never quite sure what we’ll find at Dartington Estate. On our last visit, we stumbled on a summer literary festival. Dartington offers a perfect blend of culture, nature and relaxation. Check out the packed calendar of events, eat at The Green Cafe, or shop at The Cider Press Center. There’s even a Barn Cinema. Our kids also love to run around here and spend time on the nature-inspired playground. There are also many options to stay over — from glamping to cabins — if you need a longer break.
Almond Thief, Dartington
One of our favourite bakeries is located in an unassuming setting, tucked away on an industrial estate. Savour artisanal bread, pastries, and fresh coffee in a welcoming, if stripped back, setting. A great spot to refuel and indulge in some of the tastiest baked goods around.
Cornwall
Coombeshead Farm
Tre Pol & Pen
Da Bara Bakery
Coombeshead Farm
This takes a little more to seek out: there are some twisty lanes and you’ll need to double-check opening times, but Coombeshead Farm feels like an idyllic retreat before continuing your journey. A charming guesthouse, bakery, and working farm nestled in Cornwall's serene countryside, you’ll find farmhouse comforts, freshly baked goods, and the beauty of 66 acres of meadows and woodlands. You can also stay overnight on the farm with dinner, bed and breakfast provided.
Tre Pol & Pen
An award-winning farm shop and restaurant in the Tamar Valley, we loved the striking design, charming countryside setting, and indoors/ outdoors feel of Tre Pol & Pen. The cafe and farm shop offer fresh Cornish produce, delicious meals, and unique gifts, plus there’s room and a playground for the kids to run around. It’s a slightly longer detour but down pretty straightforward roads.
Da Bara Bakery
Where to stop can be all about timing. How soon or late in the journey do you make a detour? Sometimes we arrive here just as we’re leaving Cornwall and though it can feel early in our road trip we’re drawn by the cinnamon rolls and wholewheat molasses. Offering freshly baked goods that showcase local flavors and expert craftsmanship to eat in or takeaway, this is an easy comfort stop just off the main route.
Places open and close, they change hands or menus. We once drove 30 minutes out of the way to find a highly recommended coffee grindery and cafe closed (though the next-door winery wasn’t so that was a bonus).
If you’re planning to stop at one of these places check directly with them on their socials or website for the latest details.
Let us know where you would add. Reach out to us here or on socials. Or if you run a place you’d like us to feature in our guidebook, get in touch too. We’d love to hear from you.
Browse our online guidebook for more people-positive places.
