Top Devon Gardens for a Family-Friendly Day Out
Looking for a gentle, nature-filled day out that’s perfect for toddlers and preschoolers? Devon is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful gardens, and many of them are ideal for families with young children.
Whether your little one is just starting to toddle or you’re out with a curious kindergartener, these gardens offer space to explore, safe paths for buggies, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on fun and calm moments in nature.
Here are five of the best gardens in Devon for families with little ones:
1. RHS Garden Rosemoor
Location: Near Great Torrington, North Devon
RHS Garden Rosemoor is a magical place for young children to explore. With wide buggy-friendly paths, colourful flowers, and secret garden corners, it's like stepping into a real-life picture book. The garden changes with the seasons, so there’s always something new to see, touch, and smell — perfect for curious little hands and noses.
There’s a dedicated play area, lots of open lawn for running around, and family-friendly events during school holidays (including nature trails and craft activities). You’ll also find baby changing facilities, a café with kid-friendly options, and plenty of shaded spots for a quiet picnic or snack break.
Parent tip: The gentle woodland walks are a calming way to help toddlers wind down before the journey home.
2. Bicton Park Botanical Gardens
Location: East Devon
Bicton Park is a hit with families, and it’s easy to see why. Alongside the beautifully kept historic gardens, there’s a miniature railway that’s a huge hit with young train-lovers. The track runs through woodlands and around the arboretum — a perfect way to take in the sights while giving little legs a break.
There’s also a large indoor and outdoor play area, a soft play section for under-5s, and even a mini animal area. The gardens themselves are gentle and spacious, with smooth paths for prams and lots of visual interest — think fountains, palm houses, and blooming flower beds.
Parent tip: Bring a change of clothes — toddlers love the water features, and spontaneous puddle splashing is practically guaranteed! You’ll find some great self-catering cottages nearby, ideal for washing off muddy boots and enjoying a home-cooked dinner after a busy day outside.
3. Castle Drogo Gardens
Location: Dartmoor, near Drewsteignton
If your little ones love fairy tales, Castle Drogo’s dramatic setting will capture their imaginations. Perched on Dartmoor with sweeping views of the Teign Valley, it feels like stepping into a storybook. The formal gardens have wide paths and pretty flowers, and you can also take a short nature walk along the river that’s just the right length for little feet.
The castle itself has child-friendly exhibits, and there are often seasonal trails or scavenger hunts designed just for young visitors. The garden has quiet spots ideal for feeding or napping, plus a tearoom for a well-earned break.
Parent tip: Bring a baby carrier if you fancy exploring a bit more of the wooded paths — they can get a little bumpy for buggies.
4. The Garden House
Location: Near Yelverton, West Devon
The Garden House is like a secret world tucked into the Devon countryside — peaceful, colourful, and full of sensory delights for little ones. From fluttering butterflies to gently trickling streams, it’s a calming space to introduce young children to the beauty of nature.
While this garden is a little quieter and more relaxed than others, it’s perfect for a slow-paced wander. The flower meadows are lovely for picnics, and the Walled Garden’s bright blooms and soft lawns are ideal for toddlers to explore safely.
Parent tip: This is a great spot for a slow picnic while little ones nap in the buggy or stretch out on a blanket.
5. Overbecks Garden
Location: Salcombe, South Devon
Overbecks Garden is something really special — perched above the Salcombe Estuary, it’s full of palm trees, banana plants, and colourful blooms that make you feel like you’re abroad. The winding paths and quirky sculptures create a sense of discovery that little ones will love.
While some parts are on a slope, the main garden areas are manageable with a buggy or sling. Kids will enjoy the textures, scents, and bright colours of the plants — perfect for a toddler’s growing senses. There’s also a fascinating little museum inside the house, and plenty of benches with stunning views if you need a snack stop.
Parent tip: Arrive early for easier parking and bring a sun hat — the garden gets lots of sunshine on clear days!
Why Gardens Are Perfect for Young Families
Gardens are wonderful places to spend a slow, mindful day with your child. They offer a blend of gentle movement, sensory exploration, and peaceful rest — ideal for little bodies and busy minds. With wide-open spaces, shady spots for napping, and minimal overstimulation, they’re a refreshing alternative to noisy soft play centres or busy attractions.
Ready to Go?
To make the most of your garden adventures, consider staying in a nearby family-friendly holiday cottage. Many of them offer high chairs, cots, and play spaces — and you’ll be close enough for easy nap-time returns after your outings.
Whether it’s your baby’s first trip outdoors or your toddler’s new favourite place to run free, Devon’s gardens offer a calm, beautiful backdrop for lasting memories.