As August draws to a close and the air takes on the faintest hint of autumn, there’s something truly special about these final golden days of summer. The fields are full, the hedgerows heavy with fruit, and the sunsets seem to linger just a little longer, as if Devon itself is taking a deep breath before the season changes.
At Devon Farms & Country Stays, this time of year is a peaceful, enchanting window; perfect for a spontaneous rural escape. Whether you're craving barefoot walks on a quiet beach, a sunset picnic in a blooming garden, or a restful evening on the farm, now is the moment to slow down and savour it all.
?? One Last Beach Day (Or Two…)
The crowds are thinning, the waves are warm, and the beaches are at their best. It’s the perfect time to enjoy Devon’s stunning coastline without the summer hustle. From the dramatic cliffs of Hartland to the soft sands of Bantham or Woolacombe, there’s still time for a peaceful swim, sandcastle competition, or simply watching the tide roll in with an ice cream in hand.
Devon Farms Top Tip: Pack a picnic, stay late, and enjoy the beach as the sun sets, it’s one of the most magical times to be by the sea. Chat to your host about your picnic needs and they’d be happy to help out.
? Sunset Picnics in the Countryside
Nothing says 'end of summer' like a picnic blanket laid out in a wildflower meadow, orchard, or farm field. Pick up some local goodies from a nearby farm shop; crusty bread, handmade cheese, chutneys, and a bottle of local cider or apple juice, and find a peaceful spot with a view.
Many of our Devon Farms properties offer beautiful garden spaces, hilltop benches, or tucked away corners where you can relax and watch the sky turn gold.
? Devon Farms Favourite Local Bites: Sharpham Brie, West Country pasties, Otter Vale chutneys, and freshly picked blackberries from the hedgerow.
? Late Summer Blooms & Garden Wanders
Our countryside gardens are still bursting with colour. Dahlias, hydrangeas, sunflowers and cosmos sway gently in the breeze, and bees buzz lazily from bloom to bloom. There’s still time to enjoy morning coffees in the garden, read under a tree, or wander through flower beds with a camera in hand.
Several of our stays also offer open garden access, so don’t forget to ask your hosts about the best spots to unwind and take in the last of the blooms.
? Evenings That Stretch On…
There’s a calmness to late summer evenings that feels unmatched. As the day cools and the countryside quiets, you can sit out with a blanket, glass in hand, and simply be. Listen to the owls, spot the first stars, or gather around a firepit with family.
If you're staying on a working farm, this is also a wonderful time to see the rhythm of rural life; evening feeds, sunset walks with the animals, and preparations for the changing seasons.
? Your Last Minute Summer Escape Awaits
There’s still time to soak up the sunshine, feel the grass beneath your feet, and reconnect with nature before autumn sets in. Whether you're looking for a romantic hideaway, a family adventure, or a solo reset, our Devon countryside stays offer space to breathe and moments to remember.
? Book your last minute stay today and let the last days of summer be your best ones yet.
? Don’t forget to tag us in your memories using @devonfarmholidays we’d love to see how you’re savouring the season.
Five spacious real log cabins, beautiful views across Exmoor, fully equipped kitchen, central heating with log burner, safe enclosed garden. Working dairy farm with sheep, pigs and poultry.
A cream tea greets your arrival at Forda Farm B&B. Close to the Devon and Cornwall border, you are in the perfect place to explore both counties. Enjoy your stay on a family run working livestock farm
Modern spacious rooms with luxury bathrooms. All with direct access to our court yard, we have plenty of space for outdoor dining. All set in a secluded valley a short drive from the coast.
Relax in our heated swimming pool and slip into the tranquillity of rural life. Spacious comfortable cottage with indoor and outdoor play areas. Quiet but accessible location for Exeter and the M5.
Peace, comfort and a warm welcome where we offer the little extras that attract guests back time and time again. 2 miles from Sidmouth seafront. Lovely coastal walks and views from the farm.
17th C converted Barn 2 ensuite bedrooms, & a traditional thatched 2 bedroom cottage sleeps 5 in heart of the beautiful Mid Devon countryside. Lots of walks, pubs, relax & unwind on this family farm
Self catering cottages in the heart of South Devon with lots of animals and excellent child friendly facilities including indoor pool, toddler soft play, walk-in rabbit area & tennis court.
Escape and enjoy the pleasures of the countryside. Delightful cottages nestled on a farm. Friendly animals, ride the pony. Watch the cows milked. Sandy beaches Woolacombe & Croyde. Walk to local pub.
A working farm bordered by the River Tale which captures the magic of the countryside - sheep, cattle, free range chickens and working sheep dogs. An idyllic setting with excellent facilities.
Idyllic setting in the Exmoor foothills. Traditional 300 acre family farm. Cottages furnished and equipped to a high standard, offering rural charm, cosy woodburners (free logs), enclosed gardens.
Four comfortable fully equipped cottages. Peaceful setting in beautiful South Hams valley on historic 80-acre working sheep farm. Ideal location for a relaxing holiday
Close to Jurassic coast on a working farm. Orchard Meadow - an individual converted barn with a large open living space, 3 bedrooms (1 ground floor) 3 bathrooms and enclosed dog friendly garden.
Stunning location on the North Devon Coast, escape to this beautiful award winning cottage, Saunton, Croyde, Putsborough and Woolacombe on our doorstep! Games room, garden, Couples & families welcome.
Self catering comfortable accommodation in peaceful rural setting. 3 spacious barn conversions with unique charm. High standard & well equipped. On farm, large Oak trees. AONB. 15 mins Jurassic Coast.
Delightful cottages on working Dairy farm, explore the area for fantastic coastline, wonderful moorland, visitor attractions, local foods and many family events. Children love the calf feeding.
Smallicombe Farm is set in an idyllic location of 70 acres of pasture and ancient woodland and offers excellent self-catering holiday cottage accommodation on a real working farm in Devon
Stunning Manor & charming Country Cottages, on the edge of Dartmoor. Sleeps 2- 24 ideal for families of all ages/sizes. Play area/barn, wifi, woodfires, animal feeding, acres of space, farmshop+ pub.
Award winning cottages set in unspoilt countryside overlooking the sea - minutes from the golden sandy beaches at Woolacombe, Saunton & Croyde and a short walk from Lee Bay and the Grampus village pub