Things to do in South Molton

South Molton Museum

Located on the ground floor of South Molton’s 18th-century Guildhall, find the museum by the town square and step inside to discover the local history. Dating back to the Saxons, with a once-thriving wool trade, the museum will tell you tales of South Molton’s years gone by with photographs, documents and items on display. There are both permanent exhibitions and changing programmes of displays so pop along with all the family to find out more about your holiday destination. Free admission.

South Molton Pannier Market

Taking place every Thursday and Saturday between 9am and 2pm, head to the bustling Country Market for foodie treats, antiques, plants and more. A thriving, vibrant market, you’ll meet locals and people from all over North Devon travelling to pick up fresh produce and unique gifts from one of 70 local businesses.

If the market isn’t within walking distance of your self-catering holiday cottage, there’s cheap all-day parking you can make the most of. Your four-legged friend is welcome to browse the stalls too so there’s no need to leave anyone behind.

Castle Hill Gardens

At Castle Hill Gardens, the 18th-century Palladian Mansion House sits amid 50 acres of historic parkland and gorgeous gardens which are home to an array of spectacular statues, follies and temples. If you’re staying in one of our dog-friendly self-catering holiday cottages in South Molton, your pup is allowed to explore the gardens with you, and little ones can climb the Tanglewood Tree- one of the oldest trees in the garden.

From water features to walled gardens, temples to trickling rivers, a visit to Castle Hill Gardens is a treat for all and you can savour goodies from the kiosk or in the tearoom if the weather is pleasant.

Quince Honey Farm

Perfect for all the family and just a 5-minute drive from the heart of town, this working honey farm is a great place to visit during your stay. Work up an appetite roaming the Nectar Gardens, having fun in the Play Hive and taking a tour of the Honey Factory before tucking into tasty treats in the restaurant. Let your little ones experience what it’s like to be a beekeeper whilst you listen to an expert talk or enjoy honey tasting together where you’ll see if you can taste the different pollens and plant groups. For a creepy crawly end to your trip, enjoy a Critter Encounter session and meet Giant African Snails, stick insects and more. Don't forget to pick up your local honey from their shop too!

Rock and Rapid Adventures

For the adrenaline seekers among you, Rock and Rapid Adventures is a must-visit with climbing walls, coasteering sessions and axe throwing available. Home to the biggest climbing wall in North Devon, whether you’re new to climbing or fancy a challenge, you’ll be made to feel confident and safe with the friendly and knowledgeable instructors. Take to the bouldering cave, swing on the low ropes, try your hand at abseiling or book on a climbing taster session and see how you get on.

If making a splash is your thing, try one of the coasteering sessions which run on the dramatic coastline of North Devon. Enjoy scrambling your way around the rocks, jumping into the water for a wild swim and exploring the caves and crevices of Baggy Point, Hele Bay, Combe Martin and Woolacombe.

It doesn’t stop there, with abseiling, axe throwing, archery, outdoor climbing and water sports available too, Rock and Rapid Adventures is the perfect place to spend time whatever the weather.

Further a field, make four-legged friends at Exmoor Zoo where you might be lucky enough to spy the Exmoor Beast, or perhaps visit the Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park, a great day out over 28 acres of gardens and home to animals such as lions and penguins, as well as the Dinosaur Domain.

A visit to North Devon isn't complete without a trip to the sea. From secluded coves to vast stretches of golden sands, there are plenty of bays and beaches close by and a short drive from your South Molton holiday cottage.

And finally make the most of our fabulous location and walk along the dramatic North Devon coast or the vast moors. The South West Coast Path runs for 630 miles between Minehead and Poole and some of the most spectacular sections of the trail are right here in North Devon. Drive 35 minutes to Combe Martin where the coast path runs towards Mortehoe in one direction and towards Lynmouth and Exmoor in the other. A walk towards Mortehoe will take you past the seaside town of Ilfracombe and onto Lee Bay and Sandy Cove before you reach Bull Point lighthouse and the striking headland at Morte Point. If you make it to Morte Point, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for seals. Heading in the opposite direction, wander past Heddon’s Mouth, the secluded cove and Victorian bathing pool at Woody Bay and the spectacular formations at Valley of the Rocks. If you arrive in Lynton, ride the funicular railway down to Lynmouth and reward your walk with traditional fish and chips by the sea.

Whilst Exmoor National Park is a superb place for a walk and there are a plethora of winding tracks and trails which you can tread. Head to Tarr Steps for a waterside walk, climb Dunkery Beacon- the highest point on Exmoor, or go for a picnic and a wild swim at Landacre Bridge before walking to Withypool and visiting the local watering hole. Keep your eyes out for wild ponies who roam the land and admire the mesmerising views across both coast and country as you stretch your legs. There are lots of pretty villages with delicious places to eat including Dulverton, Exford and Porlock.