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About Devon

Not many can surpass the scenic variety of Devon. The county sits between the Bristol and English Channel's, two dramatically contrasting coastlines. Marking the end of the North coast are the high cliffs and red sandstone plateaus of Exmoor, and inland loom the massive granite peaks of Dartmoor National Park. Much of Devon land is rural, dotted with market towns and villages with thatched cob cottages. Both coastlines are complimented by picturesque seaside resorts, making Devon a popular holiday attraction.

The East Devon and Dorset coast, known as the Jurassic Coast, is England's only Natural World Heritage site. Its outstanding geology provides a near complete record through 185 million years of Earth history. The East Devon coast displays some of the oldest rock formations, fossils and cliffs, dating back to the Triassic period.

Devon has long been associated with English mariners, and was the birthplace of two notorious Elizabethan seafarers, Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh. Sir Francis Drake, who circumnavigated the world between 1577 and 1580, was born in Tavistock. His home, Buckland Abbey, is now owned by the National Trust. Use the links below for more information on the county. Alternatively, search for a district, town or parish within Devon.

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Some photos where shown kindly supplied by Geograph, and are subject to this creative commons usage licence.