February Half Term Days Out in Devon (2026)
Budget-Friendly Family Days Out for All Weathers
Here are our favourite February half term days out in Devon for 2026, all chosen with budgets, tired children and unpredictable winter weather in mind.
For us, days out at this time of year are less about big attractions and more about finding something that doesn’t cost the earth; often outdoors to blow the cobwebs away, with a flask of something warm and plenty of snacks to keep everyone going.
The days out below range from around 20 minutes to an hour from us in Mid Devon, which feels like the sweet spot during half term. Long enough to feel like an adventure, but short enough for tired little ones to recharge on the journey home. We usually aim for a few hours out, then back for warm baths, pyjamas, a film and a cosy family dinner.
For up-to-date opening times, prices and event details, click on each attraction name to visit their official website.
Woodland, Wildlife & Fresh-Air Adventures
Haldon Forest
My kids love riding their bikes along the various trails at Haldon Forest, and it’s one of those places we return to again and again.
Throughout 2026, families can step into the enchanting world of Room on the Broom, joining Witch and her friends on a magical woodland adventure. Help Witch find her lost hat, bow and wand, collect special spell ingredients and enjoy hands-on woodland activities along the way.
You can also pick up a Room on the Broom trail pack, which includes a lanyard, magical spell cards, stickers, a pencil and a pop-out craft to make your very own witchy wand.
Seaton Wetlands
Nearest postcode: EX12 2SP
Seaton Wetlands is a calm, flat and accessible nature reserve with plenty of playful prompts for children along the way. Dogs aren’t allowed on the reserve, which makes it feel especially peaceful.
The island hide was a highlight for our children, perfect for bird and duck spotting and we ended up eating our lunch there in quiet solitude. There’s a small on-site café and toilets, and the Seaton Tramway stops right at the reserve if you want to extend your day out.
Hound Tor
A proper blow-the-cobwebs-away walk, Hound Tor is brilliant for energetic children. Expect big views, lots of scrambling over rocks, and the remains of a medieval village to explore. There’s also fun geocaching nearby if your children enjoy a mission-based walk. Read here for more information on visiting Hound & Haytor with kids.
Lydford Gorge (National Trust)
Near Tavistock | NT admission applies
No February days-out list would feel complete without a National Trust visit. We visited Lydford Gorge last February and loved the dramatic walk, waterfall and temperate rainforest atmosphere. It’s engaging without being overwhelming, and the sound of rushing water seems to calm everyone down.
Animals, Farms & Hands-On Fun
Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth
EX10 0NU | Free entry
We love visiting the Donkey Sanctuary, it’s the kind of place that fills a whole morning or afternoon without feeling rushed. There’s a roomy café with a view (perfect when you don’t fancy a picnic), a play park, donkey talks, and plenty of space to wander between donkey shelters.
Children can also take part in the Forever Home Trail, with packs available in the gift shop.
Top tip: The café is genuinely good and well worth budgeting for if you can.
Strawberry Fields
Buckfastleigh | Free entry
If you have little ones who love tractors and big machinery, Strawberry Fields’ Big Machine Week is a winner. Explore the working farm machinery, from tractors and ploughs to combine harvesters; hop aboard for photos, chat to the farmers and watch live demonstrations.
Wildwood at Ottery St Mary
Admission applies
Wildwood is one of our go-to days out when the weather is mixed and everyone needs space to burn energy. Compared to many wildlife parks, ticket prices feel fair, and if you’re local, a membership can be good value.
The mix of animals, play areas and talks keeps children engaged, and the wolf talks are particularly fascinating. During school holidays, Wildwood often runs nature trails and activities in the Saxon village, including marshmallow roasting and simple crafts.
Coastal Walks & Winter Beaches
Beach Walks Across Devon
Winter beaches are underrated. Fewer crowds, big skies and plenty of space to roam.
- North Devon: Woolacombe for a bracing walk, rock pooling at low tide, or exploring the dunes at Saunton Sands with a hot chocolate from the café.
- East Devon: Budleigh Salterton promenade, followed by the skate park or the new walkway along the River Otter. Bring binoculars to spot the local beaver colony and warm up afterwards in a beachside café.
- South Devon: South Milton Sands or Thurlestone are both perfect for low-season walks with plenty of space to explore.
Indoor & All-Weather Days Out
Ilfracombe Aquarium
EX34 9EQ
A small but brilliantly packed seaside aquarium, Ilfracombe Aquarium takes you on a journey from the source of an Exmoor stream all the way to the marine reserve at Lundy.
The guides are knowledgeable and engaging, and there are child-friendly quiz trails to make the most of your visit. A family ticket for four is under £25, with additional discounts for students, Blue Light card holders and senior citizens.
House of Marbles
Bovey Tracey | Free entry
A great stop for an hour or so, House of Marbles offers glass blowing demonstrations, marble making, giant marble runs and the chance to pick and mix marbles with pocket money.
There’s also a permanent brass rubbing trail, ideal for all weather. The trail includes a booklet and crayons, which children can keep as a souvenir.
Market Hall
PL1 4PS | Ticketed
Market Hall is a unique indoor immersive experience housed in a state-of-the-art dome — the only one of its kind in Europe. Ticket prices feel reasonable for what’s on offer, and shows vary daily.
Expect 360° experiences such as Bambini Symphonique, Whale Superhighway, The Red Planet Mars, plus creative sessions like page-to-picture drawing and LEGO workshops.
RAMM
Free entry
RAMM is a brilliant free museum with something for all ages. Explore Devon’s history, colourful animals and insects, contemporary art, and World Cultures galleries.
To keep children engaged, follow the museum trails, use the sound journey headphones, or pick up a free Beastie Bag from reception.
Gallery 22 brings science to life through children’s books and artwork by creators such as Oliver Jeffers, David Macaulay, Marcia Williams and Yuval Zommer. There are also exhibitions celebrating LGBT+ History Month 2026, with the theme Science and Innovation, alongside powerful WWII collections exploring Exeter’s wartime experiences.
Villages, Gardens & Seasonal Events
Clovelly Visitor Centre
EX39 5TA | Admission applies
Clovelly feels fairly priced for a full day out. If you’re staying nearby, you can return for free within seven days.
This historic fishing village, perched on a 400ft cliff, offers cobbled streets, a working harbour, waterfalls, donkeys and regular arts and crafts activities. It’s fascinating for all ages and feels especially atmospheric outside the busy summer months.
Saltram House
Plymouth | 14 February – 1 March 2026
Did you know fairies live in the Saltram gardens?
This February, families are invited to spot 10 fairy houses hidden throughout the grounds, complete activities and collect a magical sticker from the bookshop. There are also half-term crafting sessions where children can make their own fairy house to take home.
Dogs are welcome throughout the parkland (but not inside the house).
Final Thoughts
We hope this list of February half term days out in Devon (2026) helps you plan a day or two that feels manageable, affordable and enjoyable for the whole family.
If you have any favourite half-term spots we’ve missed, we’d love to hear them.
Other Helpful February Posts
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