Devon has long been celebrated for its natural beauty, but its culinary scene deserves just as much applause. With a rich agricultural heritage, easy access to fresh seafood, and a community that prizes local, seasonal ingredients, the region is a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re indulging in award-winning cheese, sampling traditional cream teas, or enjoying the catch of the day along the coast, Devon’s food landscape is as diverse as it is delicious.
This guide explores five must-try foodie experiences that highlight the best of what Devon has to offer. Whether you’re staying in one of the many charming holiday cottages in Devon or simply passing through, these culinary stops promise to satisfy your appetite and showcase the region’s rich gastronomic culture.
Devon’s farm shops are more than just places to stock up on groceries—they’re showcases of the region’s agricultural bounty. Many are situated right on working farms and offer a mouthwatering array of meats, cheeses, artisan breads, and fresh produce. Shops like Darts Farm near Exeter or Greendale Farm Shop combine retail with dining, allowing visitors to taste before they buy. These shops often highlight seasonal ingredients, meaning every visit brings something new to discover.
What sets Devon’s farm shops apart is their commitment to provenance and sustainability. Products are locally sourced, often organic, and come with detailed information about where and how they were made. This level of transparency appeals to today’s ethically-minded foodies, and the quality is unmatched. Whether you’re packing a picnic or planning a feast at your holiday rental, a visit to a local farm shop is a must.
No foodie tour of Devon would be complete without experiencing a traditional cream tea. While debates rage over cream-before-jam or jam-before-cream, in Devon, there’s no question—it’s cream first. This iconic treat consists of freshly baked scones, clotted cream, strawberry jam, and, of course, a pot of strong tea. It’s the ultimate mid-afternoon indulgence and a beloved regional ritual.
The best cream teas are served in countryside tearooms, historic inns, or garden cafés, where you can relax in scenic surroundings. Many tearooms take pride in making their own clotted cream and preserves, offering a truly homemade taste. For those staying in holiday cottages near Dawlish, you’ll find plenty of charming spots in nearby villages where you can enjoy this local delicacy. Just make sure to come hungry.
Devon’s extensive coastline offers a daily bounty of fresh seafood that fuels an incredible number of local eateries. From Brixham to Exmouth, you’ll find everything from traditional fishmongers to high-end seafood restaurants where the catch of the day might include scallops, crab, mussels, or line-caught mackerel. The fishing town of Brixham, in particular, is a standout, with its vibrant fish market supplying some of the UK’s top chefs.
For those who prefer a more casual experience, classic fish and chips by the sea remain a perennial favourite. Many seaside towns offer shacks and shops serving hand-battered fish with double-cooked chips, mushy peas, and tartare sauce. Whether it’s a harbour-side meal or a beach picnic, the freshness of Devon’s seafood is unmistakable and adds a briny brilliance to your foodie adventure.
Beyond its produce and seafood, Devon is home to a thriving community of artisans creating everything from craft beer and cider to small-batch chocolate and preserves. Breweries such as Otter Brewery and Sandford Orchards offer tastings and tours, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the production process. Many of these producers use age-old methods, sourcing ingredients locally and focusing on quality over quantity.
The region’s cheesemakers also deserve mention—Quicke’s and Sharpham are just two of the names making waves on the UK’s cheese scene. Their products are often stocked in local delis and farm shops, or can be enjoyed on cheese boards at pubs and restaurants throughout the county.
Staying in nearby holiday cottages makes it easy to explore these producers at your own pace, while also giving you the opportunity to bring back a hamper of local goods to enjoy in a cosy, self-catered setting. Exploring these artisan offerings adds depth to your culinary journey and supports Devon’s local economy in the process.
Devon’s food festivals and farmers' markets are vibrant, community-focused events that celebrate the best of local cuisine. Events like the Dartmouth Food Festival and Exeter Street Food Market draw top chefs, producers, and food lovers from across the country. These festivals are the perfect opportunity to sample a wide variety of foods, learn from expert demonstrations, and even participate in workshops or tasting sessions.
Regular farmers' markets can be found in towns like Totnes, Tavistock, and Barnstaple, offering everything from organic vegetables to gourmet pies and pastries. These markets provide a direct link between producers and consumers, often allowing you to chat with the person who grew your veg or cured your ham. For foodies looking to understand Devon from the ground up, these markets offer an authentic and tasty introduction.
Devon is more than a destination—it’s a delicious experience waiting to be savoured. Whether you're browsing the local farm shop, diving into a cream tea, or sampling artisan cheese, every bite tells a story of local pride and natural abundance. From coast to countryside, the region offers an unrivalled mix of tradition, innovation, and flavour.
So pack your appetite and book that escape—whether it's a weekend in the countryside or a seaside stay near Dawlish, there's a taste of Devon waiting for you at every turn. With food this good, your next holiday might just revolve around your next meal.
