Days Out in North Devon and Somerset for the Whole Family from Great-Grandparents to Toddlers
Looking for suggestions on where to go in North Devon and Somerset which cater for the whole family? Whether you’ve got wheelchair users or pushchair riders, those with little energy or those with bucket loads, we’ve got suggestions so that you can all get out and have an enjoyable time together.
- Wistlandpound
Wistlandpound is a glorious reservoir affording spectacular views and a chance to get out in the fresh air. There are two trails at the reservoir which are ideal for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility, without compromising on opportunities for young children to run and explore. The Discovery Trail is suitable for all abilities and the Challenge trail is interestingly the UK’s first wheelchair exercise trail.
Great-grandparents and grandparents will delight in being with their family in nature. There’s even an accessible bird hide here. Find out more here.
Image source: https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk
- Wimbleball Lake
An accessible and exciting part of Exmoor for all is Wimbleball Lake. Let the teens head off on an adventurous bike ride, or have a go at windsurfing, whilst the rest of the family enjoy a leisurely picnic enjoying the peace and quiet. There’s also a visitor centre where you can enjoy refreshments, before perhaps heading to the dam and marvelling at the water cascading down. Even the family dog is welcome too!
Image source: https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk
- Exmoor Zoo
Both old and young alike will delight in watching the animal antics on display at Exmoor Zoo. You can see monkeys, cheetahs, wallabies and plenty more. Although the zoo is on a gentle slope, the majority of the paths are tarmacked for wheelchair use. In addition, the zoo has a selection of mobility scooters available to hire. This is a wonderful opportunity for grandparents to enjoy that childhood wonder of visiting the zoo.
Image source: https://www.exmoorzoo.co.uk
- A day out in Watchet
Perfect family seaside days are made in Watchet. We particularly enjoy crabbing from the harbour wall, where the whole family can have a go at this age-old pastime and simple pleasure. Enjoy an ice cream together and go and discover the marvellous boat museum.
Image source: http://www.lovewatchet.co.uk
- Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle is a National Trust property with plenty to do for all the family. However, it should be noted that it is more suited to ambulant visitors and is tricky to navigate with a wheelchair, because of the slope it is on. That said, the National Trust have made great efforts to increase the accessibility of the site with mobility services, mobility scooter rental, a stair climber and a map of wheelchair-friendly routes. You can find out more here.
Image source: https://upload.wikimedia.org
- Explore the Tall Trees Trail
On the Dunster Estate you can find the Tall Trees Trail which is a gentle and easy-going trail basking in giant trees. It even includes the tallest tree to be found in England, as well as the tallest magnolia too! Details of the accessible route are to be found here.
Image source: visitexmoor
- Woolacombe Beach
The beach at Woolacombe has reasonably firm sand making it an ideal option for the elderly to be set up with chair and sun shade whilst watching children play. In addition, you can rent a specialised tramper mobility scooter from Woolacombe tourist information allowing easier access to the beach. Few days out appeal to the whole family quite like a trip to the beach!
Image source: https://countrysidemobility.org
- Quince Honey Farm
Very close to our South Molton homes is the Quince Honey Farm. Even though it’s in the process of moving, it’s soon to reopen in its new nearby home. This makes it an ideal trip out with your loved one if you’re in the area to visit them. The new site looks set to have beautiful gardens to explore as well as tractor rides for the little ones.
Image source: https://www.quincehoneyfarm.co.uk
- Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre
The Dartington Crystal Visitor Centre is a fantastic day out, whatever the weather. The whole family can watch glass being made and shaped. Children can get creative with various activities. Everyone will enjoy a chance to shop or enjoy a bite to eat Pavillion Café which uses a wonderful array of West Country ingredients.
Image source: https://visitdartington.co.uk
- Lynton and Barnstaple Railway
A short train journey on the restored narrow gauge line known as the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway is an enjoyable trip out for everyone. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a picnic out, or indulge in one of their Devonshire cream teas! You can find out about access arrangements here.
Image source: https://www.lynton-rail.co.uk
We love hearing about the family day trips our residents have been on. If you’ve discovered North Devon and Somerset days out which suit all of your family, let us know – we’d love to hear your ideas!