Towns in Devon – What You Need to Know When Moving There

Devon is a beautiful county in the southwest of England, renowned for its coastal charm, rolling countryside, and friendly communities. Whether you’re moving from a big city or a small town, Devon offers a range of lifestyles in its various towns and villages. However, relocating to any new place requires some planning and understanding of what life is like there. This article will guide you through the key towns in Devon, practical moving tips, and what you should know before your move. You’ll learn about local amenities, transport, and lifestyle differences to help you plan effectively.

Why Choose Devon?

Devon is popular with people seeking a slower pace of life and beautiful natural surroundings. The county boasts 13 Blue Flag beaches along its coastline, from the rugged Atlantic shores of North Devon to the sunny English Riviera in the South. Inland, you’ll find historic market towns nestled around the edges of Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks. For many, Devon represents the ideal balance of village charm and modern convenience.

• Quality of life: Devon’s towns often have a strong sense of community. You can enjoy fresh local produce, farm shops, and traditional pubs. Many residents take advantage of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sailing.

• Good schools and healthcare: Larger towns like Exeter and Plymouth have well-regarded schools and hospitals, which can be comforting for families.

• Accessible cities: Exeter and Plymouth both have universities and city amenities. You are never too far from cultural events, shopping, and dining.

However, there are some considerations:

• Travel and transport: Public transport can be limited in more rural areas, so having a car is very helpful in Devon. The main roads (like the A38 and A30) connect most towns, but smaller villages may not have frequent buses or trains.

• Job market: Many jobs in Devon are tied to tourism, agriculture, education, or healthcare. If you rely on a city industry (like finance or tech), you might need to work remotely or commute to a larger city.

• Housing availability: While house prices in Devon are generally lower than London or the south-east, desirable coastal and rural areas can be competitive. It’s wise to research local prices in each town.

With these points in mind, let’s look at some of Devon’s towns so you can decide which might suit you best.

Major Towns in Devon

Below is an overview of some key towns and areas in Devon. We’ll highlight their main features and any special considerations for newcomers.

Exeter – The Vibrant County Capital

Exeter is the largest city in Devon and serves as the county’s cultural and economic heart. It’s a bustling center with a historic cathedral, University of Exeter, theatres, shops, and parks.

• Community & Services: Exeter offers the convenience of city life with a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The High Street and Princesshay shopping center have all the major retailers, while smaller local shops can be found in neighborhoods like the Cathedral Close.

• Housing: The city has a mix of old and new housing, including charming historic buildings and modern developments. Prices can be higher than in rural areas, but still lower than big cities like London. Suburbs like Topsham, Alphington, and Countess Wear are popular with families.

• Education: Exeter is known for its schools, including selective state schools and independent schools. The presence of the university also adds to the educational atmosphere.

• Transport: Exeter has a well-connected rail station (Great Western Main Line and others), and the M5 motorway is nearby. This makes commuting to other parts of England easier than in more remote towns.

• Leisure: The city boasts historical sites (like the Roman city wall and Rougemont Castle) plus modern amenities such as cinemas and bowling. The River Exe and surrounding countryside are great for walks and cycling.

Moving to Exeter means adapting to a busier environment compared to rural villages, but the convenience and job opportunities here are a big draw. For example, local services such as E. D. Kowalski Removals (based in Exeter) can assist with moving your belongings to your new home in the city.

Plymouth – Historic Coastal City

Plymouth is a large port city on the south coast of Devon, famous for its maritime history (the Mayflower Steps, Plymouth Sound) and naval base.

• Coastal Lifestyle: Living in Plymouth means the sea is never far away. The waterfront has a vibrant atmosphere with restaurants and activities. Areas like Plymstock, Devonport, and Mutley offer a range of housing options.

• Education and Jobs: The city has its own university (University of Plymouth), the headquarters of the Royal Navy’s Western Fleet, and industries in marine science and engineering. This creates jobs in education, defense, shipping, and tourism.

• Shopping and Amenities: Plymouth has multiple shopping centers (Drake Circus, smaller High Street shops), cinemas, and a variety of restaurants. It is larger than many Devon towns, so you’ll find city conveniences here.

• Transport: Plymouth is connected by rail to London and the rest of the UK. Good road links include the A38 and A30. The nearest commercial airport is in Exeter (about 1.5 hours by car).

Moving to Plymouth can be appealing if you want city life by the coast. Bear in mind that certain parts of Plymouth are more industrial, so research neighborhoods for the right vibe (waterside areas vs. commercial zones). Hiring a reputable removal company can help your relocation go more smoothly.

Torbay (Torquay, Paignton, Brixham) – The English Riviera

Torbay is a bay and local authority area often called the “English Riviera”, including the towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. This area is known for its sunny, scenic coasts and is popular with tourists and retirees.

• Torquay: Often known simply as Torquay, this town is lively, with a marina, theatres, shops, and a palm-lined promenade. It has a mild climate and is home to a university campus (Arts University Plymouth).

• Paignton: Famous for its pier and zoo, Paignton is a family-friendly town with beaches, good schools, and more affordable housing than Torquay.

• Brixham: A historic fishing town with a large fishing fleet and picturesque harbor. It feels more “authentic” than Torquay or Paignton, with great seafood pubs, but is quieter off-season.

• Lifestyle: All three towns offer beaches and outdoor activities. Winters are mild, and summers can be busy with visitors. There are local shops and supermarkets in every town.

• Transport: Torbay has a local railway connecting it to Exeter. The A380 road links the bay area to the M5 motorway via Newton Abbot. Public buses cover the towns well.

• Considerations: The economy here relies a lot on tourism and hospitality. There are jobs in hotels, restaurants, and retail, but choices in high-tech industries are limited. Many people who move here work remotely or in service sectors.

Torbay is ideal for those seeking a seaside community with lots of outdoor activities, from sailing to coastal walking. Just plan for some traffic in summer. Professional movers often service this area, making furniture transport straightforward.

Exmouth and East Devon – Beaches and Countryside

East Devon combines coastal towns with scenic countryside. Key towns include Exmouth, Sidmouth, Honiton, and Budleigh Salterton.

• Exmouth: A large seaside town at the mouth of the River Exe. It has one of the UK’s longest beaches, with a mix of holiday parks and residential areas. There are boat clubs, watersports, and good schools. Its proximity to Exeter (via train or road) makes commuting possible.

• Sidmouth: Known for its Regency architecture and annual folk festival. Sidmouth is picturesque but quieter. It has good independent shops and amenities for its size.

• Honiton: Inland from Sidmouth, Honiton is famous for lace-making history. It's a market town with a regular market, and more affordable housing compared to coastal towns.

• Budleigh Salterton: A small town with a pebble beach, often quieter and favored by retirees and families. It’s charming but has limited job opportunities, so many residents commute to Exeter or work from home.

• Countryside Access: East Devon includes areas of outstanding natural beauty, with rolling hills and open space ideal for walking.

• Transport: Exmouth and Honiton have rail connections (Exmouth to Exeter, Honiton on the London route). The A30 and A35 serve the area for car travel.

• Housing and Costs: Coastal living often means slightly higher prices, especially in Exmouth. Inland (Honiton, smaller villages) can be more affordable.

Moving to East Devon suits those who want a mix of seaside and country life. Day-to-day life is relaxed, but you should check commute options if you need to travel for work.

North Devon – Nature and Coast

North Devon’s main population center is Barnstaple, with other towns like Ilfracombe, Bideford, South Molton, and villages on the Surf Coast.

• Barnstaple: A historic market town on the River Taw with shops, a retail park, and some light industry. Nearby, you can access Exmoor National Park. Barnstaple has most services of a small city.

• Ilfracombe: A harbor town with a landmark theatre and Victorian pier. It’s touristy in summer, with beaches and unique shops. Off-season, local life is quiet.

• Bideford: West of Barnstaple, on the Taw estuary. A historic port town known for antique markets and a nearby surfing spot at Westward Ho!.

• Economy: North Devon is quite rural. Agriculture, tourism, and small businesses dominate. You’ll find fewer corporate offices, but residents enjoy an outdoor lifestyle.

• Transport: There is no major motorway in North Devon. The A39 and A361 roads connect to Exeter. A branch railway line runs to Barnstaple (it’s not very fast). Many villages rely on infrequent buses.

• Living: House prices are typically lower in North Devon compared to the south. Many people move here for tranquility and scenery, but often drive to larger towns for work or schools.

If you love surfing, hiking, and picturesque villages, North Devon is attractive. The trade-off is more rural isolation and possibly a longer commute to jobs elsewhere in Devon.

South Hams – Picturesque Villages and Coast

The South Hams district includes small towns and villages famous for sailing and scenery. Key locations are Kingsbridge, Dartmouth, Salcombe, Totnes, and nearby Ivybridge.

• Kingsbridge: A market town close to the coast (Dartmoor side). It has a shopping street and hosts an annual regatta. The estuary offers great scenery.

• Dartmouth: A historic port town on the River Dart, with ferries and a famous naval college. Narrow streets and scenic views make it a popular tourist spot.

• Salcombe: An estuary town known for sailing and boating. It’s a bit expensive, especially in summer, and beloved for its beaches and coastal paths.

• Totnes: A market town often associated with the area. Known for its alternative culture, independent shops, and a castle ruin. It has good schools and a railway station.

• Living: South Hams towns are small but offer independent shops, local food markets, and community events. The beaches of South Devon (like Blackpool Sands) are close by.

• Commute: Roads here are winding (A381 from Totnes to Salcombe/Kingsbridge, A379 to Dartmouth). Many locals drive to Plymouth or Totnes for work.

• Housing: Demand can be high (especially in Dartmouth and Salcombe). Prices here are above the national average, so expect to budget more if choosing South Hams.

Moving to South Hams means slower village life but enjoying some of England’s most beautiful landscapes. Check internet connectivity, as broadband can be patchy in remote areas.

Mid Devon – Central Towns

Mid Devon includes towns like Tiverton, Cullompton, and Crediton.

• Tiverton: A market town near the M5 junction. It has cafes, a castle (historic), and a leisure center. Many residents commute to Exeter or Taunton by road.

• Cullompton: Just off the M5 (J28), it’s small but growing. It has shops, a historic core, and new housing developments. Cullompton is close to Tiverton Parkway station (trains to Exeter/London).

• Crediton: North of Exeter, smaller. It’s surrounded by countryside and has good local services. It’s a traditional farming market town.

• Economy: More services and light industry. Many people commute to nearby cities or work in local shops and schools.

• Transport: The M5 motorway gives easy access south to Exeter and north towards Bristol. The Dartmoor Line railway runs through Crediton to Exeter.

• Living: More affordable than coast or cities. A practical choice if you want quieter life but easy travel to Exeter or Bristol (thanks to the motorway and trains).

Mid Devon towns are practical for commuting and offer some rural charm. They have new housing developments and parks but lack big-city life. Removal services cover these towns too, so moving in is straightforward.

West Devon – Dartmoor and Villages

West Devon is dominated by Dartmoor National Park and includes towns like Tavistock, Okehampton, Yelverton, and Ashburton (on its eastern edge).

• Tavistock: Historic market town on Dartmoor’s edge. It has a famous weekly Pannier Market and is known for antiques and local events.

• Okehampton: A small town near the north border of Dartmoor. It recently got a restored railway station with trains to Exeter. Okehampton has a castle and is a gateway to Dartmoor walks.

• Yelverton: On the southern edge of Dartmoor, near the A386. It's small and essentially a suburb of Plymouth nowadays.

• Ashburton: A charming market town at Dartmoor’s southern edge. It has independent shops and is only 30 minutes from Exeter and the south coast.

• Living: These towns are picturesque with stone houses and countryside. Commerce is limited, so many residents travel for work or work online.

• Transport: Roads can be narrow country lanes. Tavistock has buses to Plymouth, and Okehampton’s train helps some. Overall, a car is very important here.

• Lifestyle: If you love hiking in the moors, historic pubs, and dark night skies (Dartmoor is a Dark Sky Reserve), West Devon suits you.

For a move, consider how often you need urban amenities versus rural charm. Local movers know these areas and can help navigate the winding lanes.

Moving Considerations and Tips

Relocating to a new town in Devon involves more than picking a nice place. Here are some practical tips and reminders:

• Budget for moving costs: If you’re doing a full-service move, costs can include packing, transport, and insurance. Compare removal companies and get quotes early. For example, local providers like E. D. Kowalski Removals in Exeter offer both man-and-van services (for small moves) and full house removals.

• Housing search: Begin looking at property prices and rental rates online. Devon’s market varies: inner-city properties in Exeter and Plymouth may be pricier; coastal towns can also be high (especially holiday spots); and smaller inland towns or villages tend to be cheaper.

• Visit before you move: If possible, visit your chosen towns at different times (weekday vs. weekend, summer vs. winter) to get a feel. The summer beach vibe may not last all year, and you might find some towns very quiet outside tourist season.

• Schooling and services: If you have children, research local schools. Check catchment areas. Also find out about local GP surgeries, hospitals, and any community resources.

• Transport: Decide if you need a car. Some towns (Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay) have decent public transit, but most rural spots don’t. Even in towns, buses might not run late at night. Plan your commute and travel needs.

• Climate: Devon is generally mild, but it can be wetter and windier than eastern England. Make sure your home has good heating and insulation. Flooding is a risk in some coastal or riverside areas, so consider that when choosing a location.

• Community integration: Join local groups or clubs (sports teams, gardening clubs, or social media groups for the town). Devon communities are welcoming, and this helps you settle in faster.

• Utilities and contracts: Notify your bank, post office, and set up utilities (electricity, internet) in advance. Internet speeds can vary; ask neighbors about providers.

Remember, each town has its unique personality. Here is a quick checklist before you decide:

• What kind of environment do you prefer? (Coastal, rural, or urban)

• Are you willing to commute for work, or will you rely on local jobs?

• What amenities do you need nearby? (Shops, schools, healthcare)

• What is your long-term plan? (Buy a home, rent, retire, start a business)

Planning well makes all the difference. Many people hire professional movers to streamline the process, especially if moving furniture or heavy items. A reputable Devon removals company will handle logistics so you can focus on settling into your new town.

FAQ: Moving to Devon

Q: Which town in Devon has the best job opportunities?A: Exeter and Plymouth have the most diverse economies (government, education, healthcare, retail, etc.). These cities, plus Torbay, offer jobs in services and tourism. Rural areas have fewer local jobs, so many people commute or work remotely.

Q: Is it expensive to live in Devon?A: On average, Devon is more affordable than London or the South East. However, house prices and rents can be high in popular areas (like Salcombe or Dartmouth) and coastal towns. Smaller inland towns and villages are usually cheaper.

Q: Do I need a car in Devon?A: In most cases, yes. While bigger towns have buses and Exeter/Plymouth have trains, rural areas have limited public transport. A car gives you freedom to explore the countryside and run daily errands. Public buses often don’t run late, so a car or carpooling is useful.

Q: How is the weather in Devon?A: Devon has a temperate maritime climate. Winters are milder than most of the UK (rarely extremely cold) and summers are pleasantly warm. The county gets more rainfall than eastern England, especially on the moors and coast. Being prepared for rain and wind is wise.

Q: Are there good schools in Devon?A: Yes, many well-regarded schools exist. Exeter, for example, has several grammar and high-rated state schools, as well as independent schools. Smaller towns have local primaries and secondaries, but options vary. It’s important to check school catchment areas early.

Q: What kinds of housing are common?A: Housing in Devon ranges from modern houses to charming older cottages. In cities, you’ll find flats and family homes. Rural areas often have traditional stone or brick houses. New housing developments exist near larger towns. Renting is possible in most towns, but options may be limited in very small villages.

Q: Are there Polish or expat communities in Devon?A: Devon’s population is more local than major UK cities, but you can find internationals. Exeter University attracts many international students and expats. Some towns have expat groups or community associations. Online forums and local groups (like meetup events) can connect you with others who moved here.

Q: How can I find a reliable moving company in Devon?A: Look for registered and reviewed removal companies. Local firms like E. D. Kowalski Removals specialize in Devon moves and know the area well. Always ask for quotes, check insurance details, and read customer reviews before booking.

Q: What should I pack when moving to Devon?A: Aside from essentials, consider packing rain gear (umbrellas, waterproof coats) since it rains often. If you enjoy outdoor activities, bring your gear (like hiking boots or water sports equipment). Label boxes clearly with the room or town (especially if you’re moving items to multiple new locations).

Q: How can I get involved in my new town?A: Participate in local events (fairs, markets). Volunteer at community centers or schools. Join sports clubs (rugby, football, rowing, etc.) or hobby groups (gardening, arts). Making friends often starts with shared activities. Devon locals appreciate new residents who contribute to community life.

Moving to a town in Devon can be an exciting fresh start. With careful planning – from choosing the right town to hiring a reputable removal service – you can make the transition smoother. Devon’s natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle await you, whether you choose a busy city or a quiet coastal village as your new home.