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Perhaps the biggest attraction in North Devon is its natural environment. The stunning  coastline of high cliffs, picturesque harbours and golden beaches together with a hinterland of Exmoor National Park, sparkling river valleys and lush rolling hills never fails to impress. Indeed, UNESCO has decided that it is an environment that ranks with some of the best in the world and recently designated a large part of the area as a World Biosphere Reserve. These can be enjoyed through a multitude of outdoor activities (see Activities).
Family Attractions
You will never be stuck for places to go to keep the kids entertained - from alien encounters to farmyard capers or from busy bees to dangerous dinosaurs, there are a wealth of attractions to be enjoyed. Most of the attractions now have large undercover areas so even if the weather is not at its best it doesn't have to spoil your holiday. Many of them also operate winter openings but its best to check before you go.
addition to the diversity of its landscape, North Devon plays host to a wonderful selection of fine gardens, with surprisingly variable climates. Within this section of the web-site you will find some of the best, ranging from intensive planting to glorious old gardens now being reclaimed.
The range of styles vary from historic garden settings surrounding fine houses, as well as contemporary collectors' gardens which often contain rare and unusual subjects. Whatever your interest in gardening, these examples in North Devon are guaranteed to both
Museums
North Devon has a selection of museums and local collections which offer an insight into the history, heritage and the people of the North Devon area. Through exhibits and interactive displays you will find the true spirit of the characters who have lived here and the beauty of the countryside and coastline of this unspoilt region.
Arts & Theatre
North Devon has a very active arts and crafts community with many galleries, potteries and craft shops throughout the area. There are two splendid theatres at Barnstaple and Ilfracombe that provide an all year round programme of high quality events and smaller arts centres at Torrington and Beaford. There are also a multitude of events and festivals throughout the year that are adding to North Devon's already excellent reputation in the arts (see Events).
Leisure
There are a range of other attractions with activities that you can do whilst on holiday in the area - whether you want to take a trip to an offshore island or up the river, explore the Tarka Trail go karting, bowling or simply indulge yourself down at the local markets and shops there are many options.
Whether it's the search for extreme thrills or simply taking life at an altogether more leisurely pace, the spectacular landscape of North Devon & Exmoor provides the perfect backdrop to a wide variety of outdoor activities.
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