A family holiday in Devon goes best when the week has a rhythm. Not every day needs to be a “big day out”. The most enjoyable Devon family breaks usually alternate between: one hero day, one calm day, one flexible weather swap day. That’s why a well-located base near Ashburton works so well: you can reach Dartmoor quickly, plan attractions and town days, and still keep the holiday feeling relaxed.
Parkers Farm Holiday Park
Address: Higher Mead Farm, Ashburton, Devon TQ13 7LJ
what3words: ///weary.mistaken.coarser
Quick answer: what’s the best family plan in Devon?
Use a simple pattern:
- 2 “big” days (one Dartmoor-style, one attraction/coast)
- 2 calm days (town, short stops, local exploring)
- 1 flexible swap day for weather
That’s how you avoid tired kids and stressed evenings.
The 5 day types that make family holidays easy
1) Dartmoor day (landscape + easy walks)
Best for: views, fresh air, simple exploring
Keep it family-friendly: short walks, big scenery, early return.
2) Attraction day (one main venue)
Best for: school holiday energy
Rule: one main attraction only. Don’t plan two.
3) Town day (low-effort, high reward)
Best for: mixed weather, tired legs
Cafés, browsing, short scenic stop on the way back.
4) Coast day (classic Devon holiday day)
Best for: sunshine and summer
Keep it simple: one coast area, one beach, one food stop.
5) Rainy-day swap day (indoor-first)
Best for: unpredictable Devon weather
Anchor the day around one indoor option, then add cafés and short walk windows.
The family “hero day” rule (avoid the crash)
A hero day is great — but it needs protection:
- start earlier
- pack snacks and water
- plan a clear “return time”
- keep the evening easy and familiar
Packing list for family holidays in Devon
The day bag (pack once, use all week)
- waterproof layer for each person
- warm layer (even in summer)
- snacks and refillable water bottles
- power bank (maps + photos + emergencies)
- small first aid kit (plasters)
- wipes/hand gel
- spare carrier bag for wet clothes
If you’re doing beach days
- towels + spare towel for the car
- sun cream + hats
- wind layer (coasts can feel cool)
If you’re doing Dartmoor days
- footwear with grip
- spare socks
- a small towel for muddy shoes
The evening routine that saves family holidays
The best family holidays have calm evenings:
- simple dinners
- showers and reset
- a predictable wind-down
- next day planned lightly
Facilities and practical on-park comfort support that rhythm:
https://www.parkersfarmholidays.co.uk/facilities/
Use the planning hub to build your week
Bookmark this and swap days around as the week changes:
https://www.parkersfarmholidays.co.uk/whats-on-in-devon-attractions-near-parkers-farm-ashburton/
Book your family base near Ashburton
Book / contact:
https://www.parkersfarmholidays.co.uk/contact-us/
FAQs: Family Holidays in Devon
How do you plan Devon family days without overdoing it?
Pick one main destination per day, alternate big days with calm days, and add one flexible swap day for weather.
Is Devon good for family holidays in mixed weather?
Yes. Devon has town days, indoor attractions, and short outdoor windows that still feel fun. A well-located base makes it easy to pivot.
What’s the best age for a Devon family holiday?
Devon works for all ages because you can tailor days: beaches for little ones, attractions for school-age kids, Dartmoor walks for older children.
How do you keep travel stress low in Devon?
Stay central, start days early in peak season, avoid overplanning, and don’t chase last-minute shortcuts on narrow lanes.
Where should families stay for Dartmoor and day trips?
A base near Ashburton works well because Dartmoor is close and you can plan coastal and attraction day trips without relocating.
