Our favourite things to do for couples in Devon

Valentine's Day may have come and gone – but why wait another year to plan a romantic getaway? Here in Devon, there are plenty of things to do for couples year-round.

This is the land of rolling hills, exquisite beaches and historic castles. If you have a taste for romance and a thirst for adventure, you'll feel like every day is 14 February.

There's so much to do, in fact, that it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've shared six of our favourite couples' activities in this very loved-up corner of the UK.

First, let's explore the delights of the Devon countryside…

Go for a romantic walk

Did you know that around 90% of Devon's land area is classified as rural? That means you have around 2,300 square miles of largely unspoilt countryside to discover.

There's Dartmoor, with its vast moorlands and mighty tors. There's the South West Coast Path – a 630-mile trail with stunning clifftop views at every turn. And here in West Devon, you'll find the Tamar Valley – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty criss-crossed with woodland trails and ancient thoroughfares.

If you're looking for things to do for couples, you could do far worse than pull on your walking boots. Even during the colder months, there's something undeniably romantic about exploring these age-old landscapes together. It's just you, your sweetheart and the wilds of Devon stretching out before you. Perfect.

Explore a historic castle

You don't have to be a history lover to appreciate a good castle. A lonely ruin on a windswept moor? That's romance in a nutshell.

Adventurous couples will be pleased to learn that Devon is positively swarming with the things. Wikipedia lists no less than 19 examples, some dating back to the 11th century.

Among the most famous are Totnes Castle, which has guarded its namesake town for some 800 years, and the distinctive red-walled Rougemont Castle in Exeter. West Devon has its fair share, too, including the neo-romantic Castle Drogo and the beautiful ruins of Okehampton Castle.

Each comes with fascinating stories attached. For instance, did you know that Lydford Castle is the earliest example of a purpose-built jail in England? Or that Dartmouth Castle was used by the military as recently as 1955?

That's all window dressing, though. You'll have as much fun if you simply turn up and soak in the atmosphere.

Find a secret beach

Devon is famous for its beaches. Some, like Woolacombe Beach and Blackpool Sands, are known the world over for their glistening waters and family-friendly amenities.

They're also staggeringly popular – especially during the summer months. That's fine if you want to practice surfing or build some sandcastles. But if you're looking for things to do for couples, you'll probably want to escape the crowds and find somewhere a little more secluded.

Good news. For every crowd-pleasing beach, there's at least one secret bay or half-hidden cove waiting to be discovered. These gems don't get much love from local guidebooks – but they're just as golden, sandy and sun-kissed as any of the big-name beaches.

You'll find some of the very best on the South Devon Coast, close to Plymouth. Wonwell Sands and Mothecombe Beach are among our favourites.

Visit a quaint market town

Devon's natural beauty might be its greatest asset. But it's not all moors and tors. There's plenty of manmade beauty to discover, too.

The twin cities of Exeter and Plymouth are a good place to start – especially if you're in the mood for some urban adventuring. However, one of our favourite things to do for couples is to explore the many small market towns that dot the Devonshire landscape.

We're lucky enough to have one of the finest on our doorstep. Tavistock is a treasure trove of independent shops, historical buildings and cosy eateries. It's well worth spending a lazy afternoon exploring its maze of streets.

Elsewhere, you'll find the proudly quirky town of Totnes, the charming port town of Barnstaple and the ever-interesting Honiton – considered the antiques capital of the southwest. We could go on – but you'll have more fun discovering them for yourself.

Make it a movie night

Sometimes, all you want to do is cosy up with a good movie. Not a problem. With big-name and arthouse cinemas dotted throughout the county, Devon's film fans are spoiled for choice.

In our book, one of Devon's best things to do for couples is to head to Tavistock Wharf and catch one of the latest flicks. Built in the 18th century, this former industrial complex now bills itself as 'West Devon's premier arts and entertainment venue'.

As you might have guessed from that description, the Wharf isn't just a cinema. As well as screening up-to-the-minute movies, it also puts on theatre, music and live-streamed performances from arts venues around the country.

In other words, whether you're a film buff or a music lover, you'll find something to float your cultural boat. AC/DC tribute band, anyone?

Enjoy a couple's retreat in the Devon countryside

Activities are important, sure. But if you want to make the most of Devon's romance, you need an equally romantic place to stay.

That's why we'd like to cordially invite you to join us at The Horn of Plenty.

Perched on the border between Devon and Cornwall, our country house hotel puts you within easy reach of the UK's best beauty spots. Stay with us and you'll enjoy luxury amenities, gourmet dining and the kind of soul-stirring scenery that could make you fall in love all over again.

Want to explore a classic Devon market town? Tavistock is one of Devon's finest – and it's just a few minutes' drive from our door. Love a romantic walk? We're moments from the Tamar Valley and its 75 square miles of exquisite countryside.

Let's make it special. Book a last-minute escape and you could save up to 40% on dinner, bed and breakfast up until the end of February. To take advantage of this offer, simply book online using the promo code WIN – or call 01822 832528.