Devon Calling: 5 Reasons to Make the Move

Looking for more space, sea air, and a community that feels like family? Devon could be your ideal escape. With postcard-perfect coastlines, vibrant towns, and a rich cultural heartbeat, it’s not just a great place to visit – it’s one of the best places to live in the UK. Whether you’re upsizing, relocating, or looking for a fresh start, here are five reasons Devon should be your next move.

Fascinating historical sites

If you’re even a little bit into history, Devon will blow you away. It’s brimming with rich historical sites that will have you completely hooked. To really go back in time a home in Totnes, one of Devon’s oldest towns, will give you all the feels. With its impressive Norman castle, medieval buildings, and charming streets full of heritage, it’s like stepping straight into a storybook and one of the best places to live in Devon.

Ancient architecture

Over in Dartmouth, the iconic Dartmouth Castle stands proudly at the mouth of the River Dart, a 14th-century gem with fascinating naval links and incredible views – a stunning site to pass on your daily commute!

Got a soft spot for Roman history? Then Exeter is your go-to. This vibrant city boasts Roman ruins, ancient city walls, and a seriously stunning cathedral. In Tiverton, you can explore the atmospheric Tiverton Castle, which dates back to 1106, and take in the grandeur of Knightshayes Court, a Victorian Gothic beauty with gardens that are perfect for a day out with the family.

Old world character

And don’t miss the treasures up north! Barnstaple is thought to be the oldest borough in the UK, with its roots going back to Saxon times. The town is dotted with charming Georgian, Victorian, and medieval architecture and is home to regular markets, events, and festivals. For a dose of seaside history, why not put down roots in Bideford, a charming port town with Elizabethan buildings and plenty of old-world character. Many say this stretch of North Devon is one of the best places to live for those who love a mix of coastal charm and community warmth.

A thriving culture and art scene

If you’re into all things creative, Devon’s art scene doesn’t disappoint. Start in Totnes, where a bohemian vibe runs through the town’s indie galleries, colourful shops, and buzzing creative community. Just down the road, Dartington adds an extra splash of culture with the renowned Dartington Hall Estate, a hub for arts, crafts, and innovation that attracts creatives from around the world.

Over in Exeter, the city’s art offering is on the rise, with the impressive Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), the energetic Art Week, and a growing number of independent galleries. Head north to Ilfracombe, where artist Damien Hirst has left his mark – literally – with his striking statue Verity, and a strong visual arts scene that’s put the town on the cultural map.

Appledore is famous for its vibrant book festival and is home to a buzzing community of painters, potters, and craft makers. Just down the coast, Braunton is making waves of its own with a growing number of independent art spaces and collectives. Then there’s Ashburton, which is fast becoming a hotspot for artists and antique lovers alike, with studios, galleries, and quirky finds around every corner, meaning wherever you choose to live in Devon, inspiration is never far away.

For anyone moving to Devon from London, the creative energy, open spaces, and relaxed lifestyle are a refreshing change from city life.

Excellent schools and nurseries

If you’re thinking about making a move to a new home in Devon with little ones in tow, the county’s excellent schools are a major bonus. Exeter leads the way with a mix of top-performing state schools and prestigious independents like Exeter School and Maynard School, plus fantastic nursery options for the little learners.

Dartmouth offers excellent early years and primary school options, with easy access to highly regarded secondary schools in nearby Totnes and Kingsbridge. Over in Ivybridge, education is a real strength and home to the well-respected Ivybridge Community College, plus a solid choice of nurseries and primaries. For a more village feel, South Brent is a favourite among young families, offering great early years support and a friendly, well-rated local school.

For something a little different, Totnes offers a more alternative approach, with the well-known Steiner School and a variety of other progressive and mainstream options. Newton Abbot also ticks the boxes with a strong network of nurseries and well-regarded primary and secondary schools. And, in the stunning South Hams towns like Kingsbridge, there are some of the best schools in Devon, making it an ideal spot for families looking to settle down.

All this contributes to why so many say Devon is a good place to live for families seeking balance and quality education.

Charming local traditions

One of the things that makes Devon so special is its deep-rooted sense of tradition and local pride. All across the county, you’ll find time-honoured customs still going strong today. In Widecombe-in-the-Moor, the much-loved Widecombe Fair celebrates Dartmoor life with music, livestock shows, and a proper community buzz.

Head to Ottery St Mary if you’re brave enough to witness the Tar Barrels, a fiery, adrenaline-fuelled tradition where locals run through the streets carrying flaming barrels on their backs – yes, really! Down on the coast, Brixham embraces its maritime roots with events like the swashbuckling Pirate Festival and thrilling Trawler Race, while in the north Appledore also keeps its seafaring spirit alive with the historic Appledore and Instow Regatta.

Meanwhile, Clovelly, just over the North Devon border, feels like a living museum! It’s a privately owned village with cobbled streets and traditions that date back centuries, such as its sea shanty, lobster, and crab festivals. In Lynton and Lynmouth, nestled on the edge of Exmoor, you’ll find seasonal heritage festivals and the charming Victorian cliff railway. And let’s not forget Honiton, famous for its intricate lace-making heritage and warm, close-knit community feel.

With so much community spirit and cultural richness, it’s no wonder many people consider Devon among the best places to live in England.

Local food and drink delights

If your idea of heaven involves fresh bread, handmade cheese, local cider, and seasonal produce on your doorstep, then Devon is a dream. The county is bursting with artisan flavours, local producers, and a strong farm-to-fork ethos that makes eating well a way of life.

Sustainable and delicious

In Totnes, you’ll find organic markets, vibrant farm shops, and independent cafés on every corner, all championing local, sustainable produce. Ashburton is fast becoming a foodie haven, home to the renowned Ashburton Cookery School and a growing scene of top-notch eateries.

Coastal gems like Appledore and Instow serve up fresh seafood, homemade bakes, and fantastic pub grub with a sea view. In Braunton, you’ll find hip cafés, delis full of Devon-made treats, and healthy, surf-friendly menus.

Tradition round every corner

Barnstaple’s Pannier Market is a must for foodie finds – from butchers and cheesemakers to bakers and crafters – while nearby South Molton is gaining a name for its honey, meats, and bustling farmers’ market and is regarded as one of the best markets in Devon.

Great Torrington is surrounded by cider makers, cheese producers, and proper farm shops, while the South Hams area is packed with vineyards, seafood stalls, and artisan breweries. Over in Tiverton and Mid Devon, you’ll discover traditional butchers and dairies still using age-old methods passed down through generations. If great seafood is your thing, in Dartmouth you’ll be spoilt for choice, with independent eateries and a strong emphasis on locally caught fish.

With its blend of history, beauty, vibrant communities, and a quality of life that’s hard to beat, Devon isn’t just a great place to visit – it’s the perfect place to call home. If you’ve been wondering is Devon a good place to live, the answer is a resounding yes.

If you’re dreaming of living in a place where proud heritage meets modern living, then Devon might just be your perfect next move. It’s easy to see why do people move to Devon – from the coastline to the culture, there’s something for everyone. And if you’ve ever asked yourself why move to Devon, the real question might be: why wait?

Explore our range of new build homes and discover which part of Devon could be your perfect fit.

Get in touch with our sales team to find out about our range of new build homes in Devon and discover for yourself why it’s such a good place to live, Devon and one of the best places to live in the UK.

Allison Homes Web Article: 24th December 2025