UK Staycation: Top Places to Visit in Devon in Your Hire Car

In recent years, following the wake of the pandemic, many people are choosing to go on staycations for their family holidays rather than venture abroad. The UK has many wonderful places to offer, Devon being one of them!

To make the most out of a visit to this beautiful county, we recommend touring it by car. If you don’t have your own vehicle, or would prefer not to use it for various reasons, then arranging for car rental in Torquay is an ideal solution.

We’ve put together this list of top places to visit in Devon with your hired car - all within approximately an hour’s drive or less from Torquay, to inspire you for your next holiday!

1. Babbacombe Model Village

Based in Torquay itself, Babbacombe Model Village is a miniature village and railway, with an array of fun characters, buildings, moving vehicles and more spread out across four acres of beautiful gardens for you to meander through.

Having been in operation for over 60 years, this attraction is ideal for all the family to enjoy, offering a unique and novel experience that’s well worth the visit.

2. The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is a charitable organisation that devotes itself to the welfare of donkeys. Originally founded in 1969, it’s gone on to become one of the largest equine charities in the world!

Based in Sidmouth, the sanctuary is home to a large number of rescue donkeys (many of which you’re free to say hello to!) and is free to visit every day of the week. 

3. Crealy Theme Park

Devon’s very own award-winning theme park and resort, Crealy Theme Park is home to over 60 rides and attractions, including entertainment, live shows and even animals!

This makes for the perfect day out during your Devonshire holiday, with something to attract every member of your party - whether that be a ride on the Twister, exploring the Pier or saying hello to some of the animal residents in the Jungle Journey experience.

4. National Marine Aquarium

Home of the Ocean Conservative Trust, the National Marine Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the UK, located in Plymouth.

The aquarium is home to over 4,000 animals, so there’s certainly a lot to see! They also run regular events, offering you the opportunity to enrich your visit and truly make the most of your experience.

5. Castle Drogo

What’s a UK holiday without a visit to a National Trust property? Based in Drewsteignton, near Exeter, Castle Drogo is a fabulous property boasting dramatic architecture surrounded by stunning gardens.

A visit here is perfect for learning some history and exploring local wildlife, finished by enjoying a spot to eat and a browse in the gift shop.

Car Hire in Torbay

If Torquay sounds like the ideal location for your next holiday, then we’ve got you covered with car hire here at Chief Vehicles.

Planning on visiting with friends? We also offer self-drive minibus hire, so you can all travel together!

Get in touch with our Torbay team today.