East Devon Excellence

20/12/2024

As the year draws to a close, we’re looking back at some of the stunning photos of East Devon taken by talented photographers in 2024 📸

Scroll to see five of our favorite shots:

1. Beautiful Ladram Bay, 220 million years in the making, shot by

2. The magical Devon aurora at Budleigh Salterton, captured by

3. Donkeys enjoying the snow at

4. Views of the rugged Jurassic coastline from the South West Coast Path, by

5. Ottery St Mary’s famous tar barrels, captured in action by

Don’t forget to tag us in your 2025 adventures using the   hashtag for a chance to be featured on our feed!

19/12/2024

In Sidmouth on Friday? Then check this out!

Our Festive Family Night is this week! 🤩

Join us this Friday for an evening of fun and festivities, where you can enjoy everything from Children’s entertainment and Christmas Crafts, to delicious festive drinks and food! Psst… Don’t forget there’ll be prizes for the best Christmas outfit!

🗓️ Friday 20th December
🕐 5pm - 8pm
📍 Dukes Inn, Sidmouth

We hope to see you there this Friday! Team Dukes x

19/12/2024

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18/12/2024

B R E A K I N G N E W S : E X E T E R A I R P O R T B R I N G S B A C K A M S T E R D A M R O U T E !

From 30 March, a new daily route, flown by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, opens between Amsterdam Schiphol and Exeter Airport. Great news for tourism in East Devon. Check it out:

https://www.klm.co.uk/

18/12/2024

Wow, what a brilliant East Devon colab, celebrating this new addition to our brilliant region!

18/12/2024

What a final! Well done to River Cottage's Chiara for being part of such a fantastic cook off. Making East Devon very proud!

Are you keeping up with MasterChef: The Professionals? Chiara is absolutely smashing it, and we’re so proud to see her powering through the rounds!

Want to meet Chiara in person? As our Head Chef, she leads many of our courses here at River Cottage, especially the popular Pasta course. There are a few spaces left, so don’t miss your chance to learn how to make pasta from the best! (https://bit.ly/4gx36GD)

29/11/2024

🎄 Have you got big Christmas plans? Let us know! 🎄

We want to hear what your East Devon business has in store for the festive season. Whether it’s a special event, seasonal menu, or festive offer, we’d love to help spread the word!

Simply fill out an event submission form using the link in our bio and we’ll do the rest ✨

26/11/2024

We've rounded up some of the best seasonal menus in East Devon to book this December. From traditional roasts to creative festive dishes, here's where you can book your Christmas meal:

🎄 Dukes: Get into the ‘spirit’ of Christmas with specially crafted festive drinks and a tempting Christmas menu (including special weekend smorgasbords throughout December)

🎄 Coldharbour Field Kitchen: Celebrate the season with a selection of tasty Christmas tapas, from traditional pigs in blankets to Flaming Barrel Gin cured trout tostas

🎄 The Pig at Coombe: Indulge in festive menus, fireside drinks, and plenty of English fizz to get the celebrations flowing.

🎄 Heron Farm: This popular cafe will be hosting a number of Christmas Dinner events throughout November and December, priced at 2 Courses for £25 / 3 Courses for £30.

🎄 Kings Arms Otterton: A delicious festive menu is available to prebook all December and includes a glass of prosecco or bucks fizz on arrival.

Make sure to reserve your tables early!

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22/11/2024

A Huge Congratulations to All of Last Night’s Devon Tourism Awards Winners!

We were thrilled to see East Devon represented by several brilliant businesses this year, and we’re proud to say we even scooped up some awards as a region:

🏆 Active & Learning Experience Of The Year – GOLD for Raceworld Karting

🏆 Business Events Venue Of The Year - GOLD for Raceworld

🏆 Café/Tearoom Of The Year – GOLD for The Kitchen At The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth

🏆 Casual Dining Award – GOLD for Coldharbour Farm Shop and Field Kitchen, Ottery St Mary

🏆 Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Award – BRONZE for Coldharbour Field Kitchen, Ottery St Mary

🏆 Large Hotel Of The Year – BRONZE for The Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth

🏆 Large Visitor Attraction Of The Year – GOLD for The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
🥉BRONZE for Crealy Theme Park & Resort - Devon, Clyst St Mary
🥉BRONZE for National Trust Killerton, Exeter

🏆 New Tourism Business Award – GOLD for Prodigy Escapes And Experiences, Exeter
🎉HIGHLY COMMENDED for West Meadow Cabins, Honiton

🏆Spa & Wellbeing Experience Of The Year – BRONZE for Source Spa Day, Source Spa at The Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth

🏆Tourism Event / Festival Of The Year – GOLD for Colour Bomb 2024 – The Bear Trail, Cullompton

🏆Visitor Information Service Of The Year – GOLD for Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre
🥉 BRONZE for Exmouth Tourist Information Service – Exmouth Town Council

✨ Winner Of Winners - Raceworld, Woodbury Salterton ✨

A massive well done to all the Devon businesses who were nominated this year.

22/11/2024

A Huge Congratulations to All of Last Night’s Devon Tourism Awards Winners!

We were thrilled to see East Devon represented by several brilliant businesses this year, and we’re proud to say we even scooped up some awards as a region:

🏆 Active & Learning Experience Of The Year – GOLD for Raceworld Karting

🏆 Business Events Venue Of The Year - GOLD for Raceworld

🏆 Café/Tearoom Of The Year – GOLD for The Kitchen At The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth

🏆 Casual Dining Award – GOLD for Coldharbour Farm Shop and Field Kitchen, Ottery St Mary

🏆 Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Award – BRONZE for Coldharbour Field Kitchen, Ottery St Mary

🏆 Large Hotel Of The Year – BRONZE for The Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth

🏆 Large Visitor Attraction Of The Year – GOLD for The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
🥉BRONZE for Crealy Theme Park & Resort - Devon, Clyst St Mary
🥉BRONZE for National Trust Killerton, Exeter

🏆 New Tourism Business Award – GOLD for Prodigy Escapes And Experiences, Exeter
🎉HIGHLY COMMENDED for West Meadow Cabins, Honiton

🏆Spa & Wellbeing Experience Of The Year – BRONZE for Source Spa Day, Source Spa at The Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth

🏆Tourism Event / Festival Of The Year – GOLD for Colour Bomb 2024 – The Bear Trail, Cullompton

🏆Visitor Information Service Of The Year – GOLD for Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre
🥉 BRONZE for Exmouth Tourist Information Service – Exmouth Town Council

✨ Winner Of Winners - Raceworld, Woodbury Salterton ✨

A massive well done to all the Devon businesses who were nominated this year. You can find a full list of winners on the Devon Tourism Awards website (linked here)

19/11/2024

4 reasons you should add the East Devon Excellence website to your bookmarks:

1. Our Interactive Map: Easily plan your next day out with our map of venues across East Devon, helping you explore everything from hidden gems to popular hotspots.

2. Discover Upcoming Events: Stay in the loop with our regularly updated event listings, making sure you never miss out on the latest festivals, markets, and family activities happening across the region.

3. Inspiration for Stays & Eats: Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a delicious dining experience, our recommendations for the best places to stay and eat will inspire you.

4. Our Blog: Catch up on the goings-on in East Devon through our blog, packed with news, stories, and insights to keep you connected with the community.

Start exploring today – find the link in our bio!

15/11/2024

Dreaming of a winter escape? Here are 6 perfect places for a winter staycation in East Devon:

✨ Southleigh Holidays: Stay in a boutique B&B or self-catering cottage, and enjoy stunning surroundings, comfortable beds, and easy access to both countryside walks and coastal paths.

✨ Mazzard Farm: Nestled in 17 acres of gardens, orchards, and woodlands, this collection of six contemporary cottages offers a luxurious countryside escape for couples, families, or groups, just a short drive from the Jurassic Coast.

✨ Twistgates Farm: This collection of charming self-catering cottages and a stylish loft apartment is perfect for romantic getaways or peaceful nature retreats.

✨ The Salty Monk: Visit for the award-winning restaurant and stay in one of seven ensuite rooms, each featuring luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets and thoughtful touches like homemade biscuits and freshly ground coffee.

✨ The Kingswood & Devoran Hotel: This charming Victorian hotel is located on Sidmouth’s Esplanade, offering stunning views over the Jurassic Coast from rooms with balconies and bay windows.

✨ The Granary, Larkbeare Grange: For fully accessible luxury, look no further than this eco-friendly, single-storey property. It’s a peaceful countryside retreat with a private garden and pond.

You can find plenty more venue ideas using our directory (link in bio).

12/11/2024

The Devon Tourism Awards shine a spotlight on the incredible businesses and attractions that make our region a must-visit destination. This year, the awards will be presented in on 21st November 2024 🥂

Several East Devon businesses are nominated and in the running for this year’s awards, recognised for their dedication to providing outstanding visitor experiences:

🏅 The Kitchen at The Donkey Sanctuary: Café/tearoom of the year

🏅 Raceworld: Active & learning experience of the year & Business events venue of the year

🏅 Westpoint Arena, Clyst St Mary:

🏅 The Victoria Hotel: Large hotel of the year

🏅 Crealy Theme Park: Large visitor attraction of the year

🏅 Killerton: Large visitor attraction of the year

🏅 The Donkey Sanctuary: Large visitor attraction of the year

🏅 Bear Town: Small visitor attraction of the year

🏅 The Bear Trail: Tourism event / festival of the year

🏅 Coldharbour Field Kitchen: Casual dining award & Ethical, responsible & sustainable tourism award

🏅 Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre: Visitor information service of the year

Best of luck to all the finalists🤞 We’ll be sharing all the winners from the night, so keep your eyes peeled!

08/11/2024

With over 22 years of service under their belt, The Jack in the Green knows a thing or two about exceptional hospitality and award-winning cuisine.

From legendary Sunday roasts to al fresco dining in the summer, a visit to this popular restaurant is much more than just a meal (just ask one of their regulars) 🍽️

Proudly recognised by Michelin, the AA, and Top 50 Gastropubs, this renowned restaurant has built a national reputation for quality and warmth. Whether you're savouring seasonal dishes like rare venison loin or wood pigeon, or enjoying a cosy evening by the fire, Jack’s team always goes the extra mile to make your visit special.



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04/11/2024

If you’re a Devon resident, now’s your chance to make the most of exclusive ‘Days Out On Your Doorstep’ offers thanks to

Whether you're planning a family day out or just a relaxing escape, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy 2-for-1 entry at Dartington Hall, discounted tickets for Dartmoor Zoo, or enjoy a free coffee at Pennywell Farm while the kids meet the animals 🐑

Live in an EX, TQ, or PL postcode? Visit the link in our bio to sign up and claim your offers!

01/11/2024

With roots dating back to 1720, The Salutation Inn in Topsham combines centuries-old charm with incredible food and a warm welcome. Grab lunch or afternoon tea in their bright atrium GlassHouse, or make it a special evening with an intimate dinner in The Restaurant.

With fresh seafood served from their very own Fishmongers and top-notch tasting menus, this popular Devon restaurant is a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.

Planning ahead? Book your table or stay up to 6 months in advance for a truly memorable experience 🥂

Find them on Instagram:

Visit our website (link in bio) for more foodie destinations in East Devon 🍽️

29/10/2024

Got something to shout about? 

We’d love to hear what you have planned for November & December 2024. Simply fill out the form linked in our bio with your event details, and our team will ensure it gets the attention it deserves 📢