Top 10 Things to Do with Toddlers in South Devon

South Devon is one of the UK’s best destinations for toddler-friendly holidays, offering a mix of family friendly attractions, farm parks, soft play and beautiful beaches. From getting up close to animals at Pennywell Farm and Paignton Zoo to building sandcastles on the golden sands of Dawlish Warren and the seaside town of Teignmouth, South Devon is packed with family-friendly days out that little ones will absolutely love. 

If you are planning a mid-week break or a longer family holiday and are looking for the best days out with toddlers, here are ten of the best things to do with young children during your time in Devon. 

1. Splash, Climb and Play at Cofton Holidays

When you are holidaying with little ones, having plenty to do where you stay makes all the difference and Cofton is packed with family fun. 

Children can burn off energy in the indoor soft play area, race around the pump track on scooters and bikes, enjoy the outdoor play parks, or make a splash in the swimming pools. The indoor pool is perfect whatever the weather, while the outdoor pool is ideal on sunny Devon days. 

For parents, it means less time travelling and more time making memories together. 

2. Meet the Animals at Pennywell Farm

One of Devon’s most popular family attractions, Pennywell Farm is a huge hit with younger children. 

From cuddling miniature pigs and feeding goats to tractor rides and indoor play barns, there is something happening throughout the day. The smaller scale of the farm also makes it manageable for toddlers without feeling overwhelming. 

The famous pig racing is always a highlight. 

3. Build Sandcastles at Dawlish Warren Beach

Sometimes the simplest days are the best. South Devon is home to some beautiful family-friendly beaches and Dawlish Warren is perfect for younger children thanks to its long sandy beach and shallow water. 

Spend the day paddling, crabbing, collecting shells and enjoying ice creams by the sea. There are also amusements, cafés and green spaces nearby for easy family days out. 

4. Explore Babbacombe Model Village 

Tiny villages, moving trains and miniature scenes make Babbacombe Model Village magical for younger visitors. 

Children love spotting funny details hidden throughout the displays, while parents often enjoy it just as much. The attraction is buggy friendly and easy to explore at your own pace. 

5. Ride the Steam Train on the South Devon Railway

There is something timeless about a steam train ride and younger children are often completely fascinated by them. The South Devon Railway runs between Buckfastleigh and Totnes alongside the River Dart, offering beautiful scenery and plenty of excitement for little train lovers. 

Pair it with a visit to nearby cafés, riverside walks and don’t miss a stop at Cranch’s Sweetshop, a traditional sweet shop packed floor to ceiling with nostalgic treats, jars of sweets and old-fashioned favourites that little ones will absolutely love. 

6. Visit Paignton Zoo

A classic family day out in Devon, Paignton Zoo is home to giraffes, monkeys, flamingos, lions and more. 

The large open pathways make it ideal for pushchairs and there are plenty of picnic spots and play areas throughout the park. Younger children especially enjoy the smaller interactive exhibits and feeding areas. 

7. Discover Rock Pools Along the South Devon Coast

Rock pooling is one of the best free activities for younger children in Devon. Beaches around Teignmouth, Dawlish and Hope’s Nose near Torquay are great places to spot crabs, tiny fish, limpets and sea creatures. 

Bring a bucket and net and turn it into a mini seaside adventure. 

8. Big Adventures at Crealy Theme Park & Resort 

If your little ones love rides, play areas and animals, Crealy is a brilliant family day out. Designed with younger children in mind, the park has gentle rides, indoor soft play, outdoor adventure areas and live entertainment throughout the day. 

It is especially good for toddlers and younger primary school children, with plenty to do without long walks between attractions. The indoor areas also make it a great option if the Devon weather decides not to cooperate. 

9. Take a Boat Trip Around the Coast

Short boat trips from places like Torquay and Dartmouth are a fantastic way to experience South Devon from a different perspective and younger children often love the excitement of being out on the water. From spotting seabirds and seals to watching the waves and passing colourful seaside towns, it is one of those simple holiday experiences families remember for years. 

Stuart Line Cruises offers relaxing coastal and river cruises nearby, while the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company combines scenic boat trips with steam train adventures for the perfect family day out. 

10. Enjoy Ice Cream and a Seaside Stroll in Dawlish

No family holiday in Devon is complete without fish and chips, ice cream and a wander along the seafront. Dawlish is ideal for younger families thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, black swans, playgrounds and easy-access beach. 

Make sure to stop by The Local Scoop for a well-earned ice cream. Packed with delicious flavours, sweet treats and colourful toppings, it is always a hit with little ones after a day on the beach. 

Pick up an ice cream, watch the trains along the coast and enjoy a slower pace of holiday life. 

Family Holidays Made Easy in South Devon 

South Devon is the perfect destination for family holidays with younger children, offering everything from sandy beaches and steam trains to soft play, swimming pools and unforgettable family attractions. Whether your little ones love animals, exploring outdoors or simply running around in the fresh air, there is something for every age and energy level. 

At Cofton Holidays, many of the region’s best family days out are right on your doorstep, meaning less time travelling and more time making memories together. With family-friendly accommodation, fantastic on-site facilities and plenty to keep children entertained whatever the weather, Cofton is the perfect base for your South Devon adventure. 

Whether you are planning a fun-filled summer holiday, a relaxing mid-week break or your little one’s very first seaside getaway, there has never been a better time to book your family holiday in Devon.