A trip to South West England is always a treat, especially for those of us longing for a bit of sun, good, local food and top-notch drinks such as artisan wine, cider, English Sparkling, rum and more.  And the idyllic county of Devon is a real gem, with its many traditional villages nestled between rolling hills and its wild coastline dotted with picturesque fishing villages.

Naturally, a cool drink or cocktail is the perfect addition to a lovely summer’s day. And the Devon area with its surrounding orchards and vineyards is an absolute feast for lovers of wine, beer and artisanal beverages of all kinds – being home to multiple distilleries, breweries and even an organic coffee roastery.

Planning a holiday trip to England’s south west this year?

Here are our top 5 travel tips for drink and foodie experiences in the county of Devon:

Tour, Taste, Dine & Stay at Sandridge Barton Vineyard

The ideal starting point for visiting Devon, and offering nearly everything you need for a short stay right on your doorstep, is Sandridge Barton, home of Sharpham Wine.

With some quite charming accommodation, a winery, restaurant and of course an amazing view, Sandridge Barton Vineyard is nestled in the South Devon countryside, on the east bank of the River Dart. Highlights include walking trails and tours of the estate, tasting sessions and the seasonally inspired, locally sourced food at Circa, their new sustainable restaurant.

A Must-see in Devon: the Town of Salcombe

Salcombe is a popular holiday resort and adorable town in the South Hams district of Devon. It is known for its extensive waterfront and naturally sheltered harbour. Rich in history, Salcombe delights its visitors with sandy beaches, much seaside and water sports fun, and more.

Salcombe Distilling Co. Gin School

Definitely worth a visit whilst in Salcombe is the Salcombe Gin School. Here, you can develop and distil your own personal 70cl bottle of gin, including devising your very own recipe, extensive sampling (of course!), and finally naming your creation and bottling it with a personalised label.

Costs: £110 for one person, £160 for two

Brewery Tour at Salcombe Brewery Co.

While in Salcombe why not take the opportunity of visiting the award-winning Salcombe Brewery Co. too: its beer is enjoyed in pubs and restaurants across the country. In fact, for beer-lovers it’s a must-see! On the brewery tour you can learn more about the ales and their production and, of course, their taste! Come armed with your questions on beer and brewing – it’s your chance to grill the experts.

Costs: £20 per person, 90 minutes, incl. tour and tasting

Coffee Heaven at Owens Coffee, Ivybridge

Love coffee? Want to brush up on your personal barista skills? Organic and fair trade important to you? Then Owens Coffee roastery in Ivybridge, South Devon, might just be the perfect destination. Offering coffee tastings, brewing tours and coffee masterclasses, Owens Coffee comes highly recommended for any fan of top-quality, ethically sourced coffee.  Even the Roastery itself has been built to be environmentally friendly, featuring sustainable construction and an eye to energy conservation. Certified organic Fairtrade coffee is available, whole bean or ground, and can be bought directly from the shop.

Costs: £95 per person, Home Barista Masterclass or Coffee Tasting & Brewing Experience

Devon-inspired drinks and cocktails

Can ‘t make the trip to Devon in person? No problem – simply bring a taste of Devonshire to your home!

Non-alcoholic Devon summer drinks

Luscombe Wild Elderflower Bubbly

• Blended in Buckfastleigh using Dartmoor spring water
• Refreshing summer drink with a burst of floral elegance
• Organic, no artificial additives, sweeteners or concentrates
• Royal Warrant Award 2021

Boo Chi Kombucha "Fresh Mint to Revive"

• Brewed in the heart of the Devon countryside
• Healthy and refreshing fermented tea, infused with mint flavour (or others)
• Organic, locally grown ingredients, full of antioxidants and vitamins

Alcoholic Devon summer drinks

Sandford Orchards ‘Devon Red’ Cider

• Apples from local orchards only, pressed in the UK‘s oldest active cider mill
• Light, pure and refreshing taste of sweet apples, with just a hint of sparkle
• Alc. 4.5%, natural ingredients, no artificial flavours

Sandridge Barton - Sharpham ‘Summer Sparkling’ 2020

• Sparkling wine made of grapes grown along the river Dart
• Lovely sparkling rosé, with a delicate taste of red berry, crisp red apple and pink grapefruit and a refreshing soft spritz
• Alc. 12%, locally grown grapes, award-winning winery

Devon Cove Vodka

• Made of King Edward Potatoes, grown, harvested and fermented on a family-owned farm in Hope Cove
• Very smooth vodka, single distilled and handcrafted in a local artisan distillery
• Perfect for mixing and summer cocktails
• Alc. 40%, pure ingredients, low carb, grain-free, gluten-free