Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Devon

Crealy Meadows Caravan & Camping Park is a clean and friendly campsite located in the South Devonshire countryside just 15 minutes' drive from Exeter. While there's plenty of regular pitches with power and water hookups, the African- and Medieval-themed areas really stand out. Well-equipped upscale camping facilities include underfloor heating in the shared washroom facilities, though there's no restaurant or bar on-site. While adult-oriented activities are limited, kid-friendly facilities abound both on-site and at the neighboring theme park.

One of the largest holiday parks in the U.K., the Ladram Bay offers a broad selection of accommodations surrounded by some of South Devon's most picturesque coastal landscapes. A lovely pebble beach is a real highlight, and fresh seafood is caught just offshore. Entertainment is available to suit all ages, while there's plenty of activities and playground facilities to keep the kids occupied.

The 37-room Woolacombe Bay Hotel is an upscale, family-run property dating back to the mid-19th century that retains plenty of its dashing period charm. Its setting is superb too -- on a sloping hillside overlooking three miles of gorgeous beach -- and many rooms have lovely sea views. Facilities are particularly impressive, with both indoor and outdoor pools, a top-notch spa and health club with squash courts, as well as excellent dining. Inviting rooms are spacious and homey, with nice touches including electric kettles and wall-mounted flat-screen TVs; some rooms also have balconies and soaking tubs plus separate walk-in showers. With plenty to do for the little ones, it really has the whole package.

The upscale Saunton Sands Hotel is a landmark property with distinctive Art Deco architecture overlooking North Devon's Saunton Sands beach. Abundant leisure facilities make it hugely popular with families, but its spectacular setting has universal appeal for vacationers. Dining options are also very good, which is fortunate as there's little else within walking distance. The 92 rooms are adequate and most have stunning views, though a few could use a makeover. All in all, while certainly not the cheapest option, it's an impressive hotel with outstanding sea views.

Sampsons Farm Country Hotel is a mid-range Bed and Breakfast-style lodging housed in an ancient farmstead dating back to the 15th century. While the location is a little off the beaten track -- a car is vital -- the pretty surroundings make for pleasant country walks. The old buildings mean some quirky rooms and a farm location means animal noises, though only enough to bother the lightest sleeper. There's no full restaurant, but the eggs at breakfast couldn't be fresher.  All in all its great for those wanting a genuinely rustic experience.

Queens Hotel is a traditional, mid-range, 76-room seaside property that's within a five-minute walk of Paignton's sandy beach and town center. While the mood is charming, cheerful, and inviting -- and there's a lovely red-brick terrace where guests can gather to eat and drink -- the decor might feel a little old-fashioned to some. Facilities are excellent, though, with nightly entertainment, five-course dining, a large breakfast selection, a game room with billiards, and a heated indoor pool, but be aware that rooms are not air-conditioned, and they can get hot in the summer.