Planning your stay with us? Lucky you! Not only will you be surrounded by stunning views, fresh sea air, and total relaxation vibes, but you’ll also be perfectly placed to dive into some of South Devon’s best attractions.
Whether you’re travelling with tiny humans, thrill-seeking teens, or just your own sense of adventure (and maybe a camera or two), we’ve rounded up the top attractions near Oakcliff to make your holiday even more unforgettable.
So, grab your sunnies, slap on the suncream (or a raincoat, because… Britain), and let’s go!
Paignton Zoo – Go Wild for a Day
If you’ve ever fancied getting up close to a giraffe or hearing a lion’s roar from a safe distance, Paignton Zoo is the spot. It’s not just animals, though – it’s like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary, but with snacks and a gift shop.
Highlights: Elephants, crocodiles, and a cheeky meerkat or two
24 miles from Oakcliff | 40-minute drive
Pro tip: Bring snacks for yourself, not the animals. The animals are already spoiled.
Miniature Pony Centre – Small Ponies, Big Fun
If your kids love animals (or if you secretly do), then the Miniature Pony Centre is a must-visit. It’s basically 20 acres of Dartmoor magic, packed with the cutest, fluffiest, tiniest ponies you’ve ever seen. Think “My Little Pony”… but real, and way more adorable.
It’s perfect for families looking for a day out that’s fun, hands-on, and won’t empty your wallet. The little ones can meet the ponies, pet some farmyard friends, and burn off all that holiday energy while you enjoy a peaceful moment with a coffee (and maybe a scone… or two).
Just 27 miles from Oakcliff | Around a 50-minute drive
Warning: You may leave wanting a pony. You may Google “how to adopt a miniature horse.” No judgement.
Crealy Theme Park – Where Screams Meet Ice Creams
Over 60 rides, live shows, and a soft play big enough to lose your kids in (don’t worry, you’ll find them again eventually). Crealy is basically the Disneyland of Devon – minus the mouse ears and the air miles.
Perfect for: Kids, big kids, and brave grown-ups
18 miles from Oakcliff | 30-minute drive
Fun fact: Your kids will be asleep in the car on the way back. Promise!
Exe Adventures – Paddle, Float, Repeat
Feeling adventurous? Try your hand (and balance) at paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing along the River Exe. No experience? No worries. You’ll be gently guided, and probably a bit soggy by the end.
Activities include: Kayaking, paddleboarding, falling in (optional)
Just 4 miles away from Oakcliff | 10-minute drive
£20 per person
Water you waiting for? Just do it. We dare you!
Powderham Castle – Where History Gets Fancy
Castles aren’t just for fairy tales. Powderham is the real deal, complete with turrets, tales of ancient families, and dreamy gardens. It’s like Downton Abbey… but with better weather (hopefully).
Don’t miss: The deer park and the tearoom – cake is practically mandatory.
5.5 miles away from Oakcliff | 14-minute drive
South Devon Railway – Choo Choo Choose a Relaxing Day Out
All aboard! Travel back in time on a proper steam train. There’s something oddly therapeutic about the chug-chug of the engine and the countryside whooshing past. Great for all ages, especially nostalgic adults.
26 miles away from Oakcliff (starts in Buckfastleigh) | 40-minute drive
Ideal for: Fans of trains, slow travel, and waving at strangers.
Kents Cavern – Go Full-on Flintstone
Explore the Stone Age at one of Europe’s most important prehistoric caves. You’ll walk where ancient humans did, spot cool rock formations, and maybe hear an echo that sounds suspiciously like your partner saying, “Wow!”
12.6 miles away from Oakcliff | 35-minute drive
Heads up: It’s underground… so it’s always cool (literally and figuratively).
Pennywell Farm – Piglets & Playtime Galore
Miniature pigs. Yes, really. Also, hands-on animal encounters every 30 minutes, tractor rides, pig racing, and enough cute to last a lifetime. It’s wholesome chaos, and it’s brilliant!
28 miles away | 40-minute drive
Family tip: You will want to take a piglet home. You must resist.
Canonteign Falls – Waterfalls, Fairies & Forests
Get those legs moving with a trip to Devon’s highest waterfall. Wander through magical Victorian fern gardens, chase the kids around the playground, then reward yourself with a well-earned cuppa at the café.
13 miles away from Oakcliff | 35-minute drive
Top tip: Say hi to the fairies… just in case they’re real!
Starcross Golf – Casual Clubs & Coastal Views
Looking for a relaxed round of golf? Starcross is super family-friendly – no dress codes, no scary rules, just a scenic 9-hole course with a few sneaky hazards to keep you on your toes (or in a sand trap).
3.6 miles away | 8-minute drive
Tee off and see if you can get a hole in one!
Your Devon Adventure Starts Here
From steam trains and stately homes to screaming on rollercoasters and cuddling piglets, there’s no shortage of attractions in South Devon! It’s the perfect base for a holiday filled with stories, giggles, and that smug “we picked the right place” feeling.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, plan your days out, and get ready to discover the best of South Devon!
Book your stay at Oakcliff now – adventure’s calling! Click here to secure your spot and create unforgettable memories!
If you enjoyed our South Devon Attractions blog, you might like our other blogs. Find them here.