Beyond the Usual Tourist Trails
When you book a caravan park in Devon, you aren’t just booking a pitch; you’re unlocking a gateway to the English countryside. While the big-name attractions are great, the true magic of South Devon lies in the spots the locals keep to themselves.
Staying at Parkers Farm Holiday Park puts you right at the “gateway to the moors.” Here are 7 hidden gems—all within a short drive of Ashburton—that will make your 2026 holiday unforgettable.
1. The “Miniature Pony” Walk at Hound Tor
Distance from Parkers Farm: 15 mins | Best for: Families & Photographers While everyone flocks to Haytor, Hound Tor offers a more atmospheric experience. Walk through the abandoned medieval village (abandoned in the 14th century!) and see if you can spot the Dartmoor Ponies that frequent this stretch.
- Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for incredible 360-degree views of the moor.
2. Spitchwick Common: The Ultimate Wild Swim
Distance from Parkers Farm: 12 mins | Best for: Nature Lovers Hidden along the banks of the River Dart, Spitchwick is a local favorite for a riverside picnic. The water is crystal clear and perfect for a quick dip or for the kids to go crabbing in the shallows.
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3. The “Secret” South Devon Railway Stop
Distance from Parkers Farm: 8 mins (to Buckfastleigh Station) | Best for: Nostalgia Most people take the steam train from Buckfastleigh to Totnes, but the real gem is stopping at Nappa Mill. It’s a quiet, beautiful spot where you can watch the steam engines chug past while enjoying a quiet riverside stroll.
4. Buckfast Abbey’s Lavender Gardens
Distance from Parkers Farm: 10 mins | Best for: Calm & Culture Everyone knows the Abbey, but few realize it houses one of the largest Lavender Collections in the UK. In the summer months, the scent is incredible. It’s a peaceful, free-to-visit sanctuary just down the road from your caravan.
5. Hembury Woods: Ancient Iron Age Forts
Distance from Parkers Farm: 11 mins | Best for: Dog Walkers Tucked away near the River Dart, these National Trust woods contain the remains of an Iron Age Hillfort. It’s a steep climb, but the canopy of ancient oaks and the carpet of bluebells in Spring make it one of the most beautiful walks in Devon.
6. Ashburton’s “Antique Alley”
Distance from Parkers Farm: 5 mins | Best for: Rainy Days Ashburton isn’t just a gateway; it’s an award-winning food and antiques hub. Spend a morning browsing the independent shops on North Street. From rare books to vintage Devon pottery, it’s a collector’s paradise.
7. Becky Falls: The “Ancient” Waterfall
Distance from Parkers Farm: 18 mins | Best for: Adventure Voted one of Devon’s top beauty spots, Becky Falls is set within a spectacular ancient woodland. There are three different trails ranging from “gentle” to “boulder scramble”—perfect for burning off some energy before heading back to the park for a BBQ.
Planning Your 2026 Devon Adventure
Whether you are touring in a motorhome or staying in one of our luxury holiday homes, Parkers Farm is the perfect anchor for your Devon discovery.
