We love London as much as the next person, there are always things going on, always something to do. But sometimes you crave a break from this big mess of a city. If we were to pick one of my favourite things about London life, it would be how easy it is to escape it for a short break or weekend. With five airports within a fairly close distance (maybe with the exception of Luton) and budget airlines like Ryanair, escaping has never been easier. But where should we go?
The destination
Whether you want to be in the heart of the city, to shop till you drop, you have the option of Exeter, with a huge range of shops from high-end to local; multiple cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Or if you are looking for a tranquil break, you have an unlimited choice of seaside resorts, like Sidmouth for example. A small but beautiful seaside town just a stone throw away from the city (a 30-minute direct bus journey in other words), that offers the perfect spot for sun-bathing, coastal and woodland walking, amongst so much more. Or if you really want to make the most of your time away, you can have the best of both worlds even in just 24 hours!
How to get there
Getting to Devon can be cheap and easy, but the key to getting the best deal is booking in advance and looking into all the options (having a rail card is also a plus). Getting the train via Train Line seems to be the best option, as it’s quicker (around 2-3 hours) and typically costs around £60-70 pp for a return. Alternatively, getting the bus is the cheaper of the options, with companies such as flix and Nation Express, coming in at around £20-25pp for a round trip, taking a little longer (around four – five ish hours – longer depending on traffic).
Where to stay
Devon is full of hotels and Airbnb, but I would recommend staying close to the city centre in Exeter, as it’s more accessible, cheaper and it’s got way more night life than the seaside towns. So for just £89 a night for two people, you can stay in the Holiday Inn right in the city centre, with the added bonus of breakfast. Cheaper option of hostels are available, like the Globe Backpackers, priced at £23 for two people, for a dorm.
Top three attractions in Devon
Greendales Farm Shop
Sidmouth beach
Exeter City Center
The nightlife
Nightlife in Devon only really exists in the city. But that doesn’t mean it’s bad. There is an abundance of clubs, pubs, and bars that open till the early morning. There’s something for everyone, if you want to start by getting cheap pre-drinks in a choice of three Wetherspoons and then follow up with a night at one of the many clubs like Fever, which is what we did. Or there’s Coolings, that does a very reasonable bottomless brunch and guaranteed strong cocktails. If you’re wanting something a little fancier, slightly more expensive, you’ve got the choice of either the Ivy or 2 options for rooftop bars; the Terrace or Becketts.
What do locals think
Annabel, 28 has lived in Devon her whole life. She told me “I couldn’t have picked a better place to grow up and that’s why I’ve chosen to raise my kids here. You’ve got everything you could ever want, and I love that everyone knows everyone!”
What do Londoners think
Femi, 22 from North London, said: “I’ve never been to the countryside before, but Sidmouth has it all. I’ve seen the sea, been to the forest and now I’m out clubbing in the busy city. I feel like I’ve been on like three different holidays.”
Our verdict
Devon is a place that really does have it all, it’s perfect to go get away from the hustle and bustle of London without breaking the bank or having to take days off of work or studying. It gives you the feeling of going abroad without having to leave the country has so much to offer so you’ll never be bored.
