One of the largest counties in the UK, and the only one to boast two coastlines, Devon is a great spot to call home - regardless of how you like your cream teas.

Whether you want to step back in time and experience the South Devon Railway, take in the Dragon Boat Festival or follow in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes - who once famously solved a case in the area - Devon has it all, but could it also have your new house? Nearby counties include Dorset, Bristol, Somerset and Cornwall, meaning you can escape to other destinations for a day out - or even further afield thanks to the well-established transport links to the rest of the country. But with a great variety of landscapes and a range of activities for people of all ages, there's a lot on offer for those moving to the area.

Make the Most of the Coasts

With a North and South coast, Devon has plenty to offer those with a passion for nature. Love the feeling of sand under your feet? Or the waves under a surfboard? The North Coast may be the place for you, and Woolacombe is arguably the crown jewel of the area, consistently placing highly in best beach awards throughout the UK and Europe.

But don't forget about the South Coast of the county! Home to the ‘English Riviera’ of Torbay, the much sought-after South Hams area and the historic Jurassic Coast, not to mention watersports too, not many places in the UK let you bask in the wonders of the outdoors to the extent Devon does.

City Living or the Outdoors

The cathedral City of Exeter is Devon’s county town and is emerging as a vibrant destination home to professionals, families, the younger crowd, the older crowd and students alike. With a range of shopping centres, independent bars, restaurants and a dynamic quayside, you're unlikely to be hard pushed for things to do in Exeter.

If you're looking to take a break from inner-city living, why not escape to the outdoors? The country is excellent for connecting with the countryside, rivers, hills, and the South West Coast Path are spread across the region. Two of the UK's 15 National Parks can be found in the country, with Dartmoor making up a large part of South Devon and Exmoor in the North East.

As one of the biggest counties in the UK, property prices naturally vary throughout Devon depending on the area. According to Rightmove, most of the sales over the past year were detached properties, which on average sold for £460,377. Terraced properties had an average sold price of £239,684, and semi-detached properties averaged £280,239.

With an overall average price of £313,555, Devon is cheaper than nearby Somerset (£347,816), Cornwall (£332,552) and Dorset (£390,131). The most expensive area within Devon was Dittisham (£1,013,000), and the cheapest was Devonport (£169,037).

What can I do in Plymouth?

Plymouth’s history goes back as far as Saxon times and is very much centred around the maritime location of the settlement. We’ve even heard that Sir Francis Drake played bowls upon the Plymouth Hoe as the Armada sailed up the Channel, how’s that for an impressive fact?!

If you’re not quite done with the history lesson, then why not take a visit to Saltram, ​​a George II era mansion, that’s cared for by the National Trust. Maybe even stop by the famous Plymouth Gin Distillery for a tour and tasting.

Plymouth is certainly spoilt with stunning outdoor spaces that include Plymbridge Woods, the Plymouth Sound and Burgh Island to name just a few. After a long day out walking, there’s plenty of local breweries such as Roam Brewing Company, Bulletproof Brewing and Steel Brew Co to grab a drop of something local with friends.

What is it like to live in Exeter?

Living in Exeter is a great choice; there is so much to do right on your doorstep and the cost of living is at least half of living in London which is only three hours away by train.

The vast array of shopping available is one of the best parts of living in Exeter; Exeter Quayside is best known for its interesting independents, Cathedral Quarter set alongside the 800-year-old Cathedral has a selection of classic independent shops and, of course, you have all the usuals shops spaced over two shopping centres.

But, that’s not all; if you’re sporty there’s The Quayside Climbing Centre. If watching sport is more your thing, then give the Sandy Park Stadium a visit when then Exeter Chiefs are playing at home.