This exciting yet relaxing tour unpacks some of the best of Devon, from historic Exeter with its majestic cathedral to beautiful Buckfast Abbey and the market town of Tiverton. In-between these visits come two unforgettable journeys – a scenic drive across wild and wonderful Dartmoor National Park and an enchanting cruise along the Grand Western Canal aboard a traditional, horse-pulled barge.
Exeter Cathedral
Buckfast Abbey Garden Terrace
Buckfast Abbey
Tiverton Canal barge trip
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Exeter & Exeter Cathedral
Today we make our way to Exeter. A city rich in history, there is plenty to occupy us, including the imposing Roman wall, beautiful quayside with shopping opportunities and award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum. We also visit magnificent Exeter Cathedral, where we embark on a 90-minute Bishop’s Palace Garden Tour. Visit this delightful, peaceful oasis in the heart of Exeter, looking first inside the cathedral at the parts of the building which can be seen from the garden and then walking to the medieval Palace Gateway to enter the garden itself. Stroll the gravel paths around the lawns giving a unique view of the cathedral itself, learn about the Bishop’s Palace and discover some of the special trees, plants and statues this beautiful garden contains.
Day 3 Dartmoor & Buckfast Abbey
This morning we enjoy a scenic drive across Dartmoor National Park, wending our way past its heather-clad moors, river valleys, granite tors and Neolithic monuments, while also watching for wild Dartmoor ponies. We continue to Buckfast Abbey, an 11th century abbey revived in the early 20th century, which houses working community of Benedictine monks. We can visit the soaring Abbey Church, stroll in the gorgeous Sensory and Lavender Gardens, and chart the daily lives of the monks at the Exhibition Centre. There is free time to have lunch at the abbey restaurants before we head back to our hotel this afternoon.
Day 4 Tiverton Canal Cruise
We set off this morning for a tranquil, 90-minute horse-drawn barge cruise on the Tiverton Canal. As we glide over the calm waters in our well-equipped and traditionally painted barge, we learn about our artistically decorated boat, the handsome, heavy horses that pull it and the river’s wildlife. Afterwards, we visit Tiverton where we have free time to relax and explore. Set beside the Grand Western Canal, this ancient market town brims with history and heritage. Alternatively, we have the option of visiting the Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
Devon Hotel
Exeter, Devon
Situated on the outskirts of southern Exeter near the River Exe, this attractive hotel makes an ideal base for touring either side of the estuary. The 60 bedrooms are decorated in a modern style and located on the ground and first floors of the main building and reception. The bar and restaurant are found in a separate, neighbouring building and serve delicious food for breakfast and dinner in stylish and contemporary settings.
BarGround Floor RoomsParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Voco Zeal Exeter Hotel
Exeter, Devon
A contemporary and environmentally friendly hotel operating on renewable energy, the Voco Zeal Exeter offers premium 4-star accommodation and exceptional stays for all guests. The 142 stylish and airy bedrooms are well appointed with a neutral décor, unique art pieces and refillable bathroom amenities. Using organically grown local produce, the hotel’s restaurant serves a delicious daily breakfast. Comfortable seating in the reception, bar or garden in good weather offers a relaxing space for a coffee or drink at the end of the day.
BarLiftNewParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurant
Pricing
Inclusions
- Entry to Exeter Cathedral & Bishop’s Palace Garden Tour
- Tiverton Canal horse-drawn barge cruise
- Entry to Buckfast Abbey
See quote for hotel inclusions
voco Zeal Exeter Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £366pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £166
Devon Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £406pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £96
