Autumn family holiday ideas

Often, it can be challenging to think of autumn family holiday ideas to keep everyone happy – particularly for groups with party members of varying ages. For those with pre-school aged children, there are plenty of things to do in South Devon this autumn that can be great fun for grown up’s too!

Here are just some of our autumn family holiday ideas:

Head to the seaside

Collect unusual pebbles and shells, skim stones across the waves, explore the rockpools, or fly a kite in the September breeze – whatever beach activities you choose to enjoy, the children will love being beside the sea. Even if the weather isn’t stunning, a day at the beach is still a great way to entertain the little ones. When it comes to family holiday ideas, and the top pursuits to enjoy in the region, a day on the beach is a must when visiting South Devon! For those with children, why not head to Salcombe, where there are numerous coves waiting to be explored. Stay at the baby friendly Five Star rated property Leylands, a short walk from Salcombe’s waterfront, shops and restaurants. Equipped with baby friendly facilities including a cot and highchair, this spacious property sleeps up to 8 and is perfect for your family break.  Prices start from £648 per week.

All-weather Family Attractions

South Devon is home to numerous all-weather attractions – the perfect option for those in search of family holiday ideas this autumn. Pennywell Farm offers plenty of opportunities for children to meet animals first hand… hold the micro pigs, feed the ducks, or try a little pond dipping. With activities taking place daily, the children are sure to have an exciting day out, whenever you visit. Woodlands Leisure Park is also a wonderful day out for visitors of any age, with a Zoo Farm, many indoor play areas and outdoor activities like bumper boats and thrilling water slides (if you are feeling brave!)  There are also a number of ball pools and designated soft play areas especially for younger visitors. If you are looking for a smaller play area, perhaps to visit for an hour or two, why not head to Endsleigh Garden Centre . With a fabulous ‘Kids Zone’, why not let the children burn off some energy whilst you enjoy a cuppa in the adjacent coffee shop. Take the grandparents with you, and they can enjoy perusing the garden centre buying gifts to take home, whilst you relax and the children play – bliss!

If you are thinking of family holiday ideas, and are considering places to stay that will accommodate all age groups, from babies in arms to grandparents, Coast & Country Cottages can help. Book a break at the Four Star rated property Little Cotton Farmhouse, near Dartmouth (sleeps 10). With five bedrooms, this spacious house is ideal for an extended family party. Guests can enjoy the use of a shared play barn, equipped with many toys, ideal for keeping the children entertained during their stay. There is also a very spacious garden, with football nets and a trampoline. For grandparents looking for a quiet moment, the sun room offers the perfect spot for an afternoon snooze! Prices start from £1041 per week.

Family friendly events

South Devon has a number of family orientated events taking place this September and October, which offer inspiration for those looking for family holiday ideas and unusual days out. The Dartmouth Food Festival  takes places from Friday 20th October – Sunday 22nd October 2023, and is one of the region’s most popular events. Visitors can expect fabulous demonstrations from celebrity chefs, food markets showcasing some of the best local food producers in the area, and workshops across Dartmouth. Coast & Country Cottages run a Children’s Activities Marquee where little ones can try biscuit decorating, as well as a number of other activities like face painting and colouring competitions, all free of charge! Come along and explore the town over the course of the three days – with activities that will interest people of all ages, everyone in your party will be entertained.

A fabulous accommodation option for those looking for family holiday ideas, Hillfield Village is a development of properties, just a short 10 minute drive from historic Dartmouth. With 20 properties sleeping 2-12, some of which have a private hot tub, Hillfield Village has accommodation to suit all requirements and party sizes. Guests can also enjoy the use of the children’s play area, and discounted rates for the use of the nearby Dartmouth Spa, at Dartmouth Golf & Country Club, where facilities include an indoor pool and sauna.

For more family holiday ideas for those considering multi-generational holidays read our blog ‘Things to do in South Devon! Activities for all ages’

For a family holiday with your young children, choose from the fabulous array of cottages in South Devon that are baby friendly, available with Coast & Country Cottages.