The 17 Best Family Hotels in Devon (2025)

With its patchwork of wild moorland, hidden coves, and characterful villages, Devon is the kind of place that invites families to slow down and spread out. Days can be spent rock-pooling on sun-bleached beaches, rambling through ancient woodland, or tucking into cream teas in cosy country pubs and cafes. The best family hotels in Devon take full advantage of this glorious landscape, whether you’re after a breezy beach retreat, a country house escape, or something a little more off-grid and magical. From grand estates where kids can fish and ride ponies, to coastal stays with spa time for parents and sandy adventures for little ones, there’s a getaway here to suit every clan.

For a classic family beach holiday

• The Red Lion is a charming family-friendly hotel overlooking Clovelly Harbour. The interiors are reassuringly traditional, and the restaurant serves up the best of the day's catch. A low-key stay, ideal for a family seaside holiday.
• The Watersmeet Hotel boasts a secluded coastal spot with wonderful views over the North Devon Coast. Rooms are bright and contemporary, and the restaurant serves delicious dishes using local produce. The casual ambience and numerous activities make this an ideal choice for a family coastal break.
• Soar Mill Cove Hotel is a relaxed family family-friendly property, a couple of miles from Salcombe. Spacious rooms and suites offer stunning sea views, and if you want the use of hotel facilities but a little more flexibility, then book one of the self-catering units, which also come with private hot tub! Explore the wonderful walking country right on the doorstep, and there's a warm welcome for canine guests too.
• Saunton Sands Hotel is a quintessential family seaside hotel boasting a spectacular setting on the North Devon coast. There's a range of both double rooms and apartments, making this an ideal choice for families (and groups). Plus there's plenty of activities on offer and award-winning dining.

For a back-to-nature vibe

• Dittisham Hideaway is the property to book if your family likes to feel that they can really get back to nature. It's a charming collection of treehouses, shepherd's huts and an original vintage American airstream, set in a gorgeous landscape just north of Dartmouth. The treehouses (and one of the shepherd's huts) are perfect for families as they can sleep two adults and up to three children, plus they boast a private outdoor wood-fired hot tub and an array of fun games. Swallows and Amazons style heaven, with all the modern conveniences you can wish for!

For an action-packed family holiday

• Thurlestone Hotel is a great pick for a family holiday where there's lots of different age groups to entertain. It's located just a short stroll from the beach and offers a multitude of activities from golf to tennis. The indulgent spa will please adults while the swimming pool will provide hours of fun for little ones.
• South Sands boasts a stunning location right on the beach and next to a renowned sailing and watersports centre in Salcombe. Spacious suites are ideal for families, and the brasserie turns out great seafood.
• Bovey Castle is a family-friendly country house hotel with something for everyone: lego room service for the little ones and bespoke spa treatments for the adults! Ideally situated for exploring the wilderness of Dartmoor, and offering more activities on site than you can imagine.

For a traditional country stay

• Hotel Endsleigh is a historic shooting lodge set in stunning grounds with traditional, elegant interiors. Offering a plethora of outdoor pursuits from croquet to horse riding and shooting to fishing. Child-friendly activities include falconry, archery, ping pong and tree surfing! An ideal choice for families interested in country pursuits.
• Ilsington Country House is a lovely British country house set in beautiful, rugged Dartmoor. Interiors are traditional, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep everyone occupied in the national park.
• Set within the historic Dartington Hall estate, The Seagate blends laid-back charm with heritage appeal. Families will appreciate spacious rooms, a playground, on-site café, and easy access to woodland trails and the Barn Cinema. A gentle, fuss-free countryside base ideal for exploring.
• The Collective at Woolsery is a beautifully reimagined village escape where historic charm meets luxurious modern design. Cosy cottages and stylish suites surround a pub, shop, chippy, and farm — bringing new life to tradition. Breakfast hampers and farm-to-fork dining seal the deal.
• Stay in a medieval courtyard with modern country flair at Dartington Hall. Wander riverside gardens, dine on seasonal local fare at the White Hart, and explore nearby moors and coast. A historic estate that’s perfect for family breaks and countryside calm.

For a boutique hotel

• The Cary Arms offers all the trappings of a boutique hotel with the added bonus of a traditional pub, which serves hearty fare. Chic white washed rooms mix traditional features with modern simplicity, while cottages offering three, four, or five rooms are ideal for families.
• Salcombe Harbour Hotel is set on the edge of pretty Salcombe and is just a short walk from a sandy beach. Uniformly smart rooms are done in a soft nautical theme. Boasting an in-house cinema, spa, and indoor pool this is an indulgent coastal stay yet with a family-friendly atmosphere, and great facilities to keep all ages entertained.
• A charming townhouse, Bayards Cove Inn offers stylish comfort with estuary views, hearty food, and warm, fuss-free service. A perfect blend of character and coastal charm — ideal for relaxed boutique escapes in historic Dartmouth.

For a hotel with a spa

• Gara Rock is a coastal chic property with bohemian-inspired interiors and jaw-dropping coastal views. Loft suites are perfect for couples, while the self-catering cottages are a great choice for those travelling with children. The gourmet restaurant and spa make this a spoiling choice. 

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Devon
• Refine your search to our Guru's recommendations for the best boutique hotels in Devon, the best hotels in Dartmoor National Park or the best hotels in Devon by the sea
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.