From Broadway tribute acts to thrilling exhibitions – why Devon is a key stop for art lovers
Devon has long been known as a county with lots to offer visitors and residents alike. This is easy to see when you consider the awesome destinations and lively places it has to explore. It’s also a county that is full of natural beauty, stunning landscapes and historical landmarks.
For many though, it’s the sheer range of things to do in Devon that helps it stand out. Playing games at an online casino is a case in point, as are shopping, dining out and enjoying the county’s bustling nightlife. The art scene in Devon is another major draw and something that any lover of art will appreciate.
But why is this county such a key stop for all art lovers?
Art galleries and exhibitions
One of the best things about the art scene in Devon is the range of stunning galleries and exhibitions to discover. This is true across the whole county and makes it a place that really does deliver for art aficionados.
The Box in Plymouth, which opened in late 2020, is one of the major galleries to visit. Hosting some of the best exhibitions from a range of artists, it’s known as one of the country’s most exciting cultural spaces. The Thelma Hulbert Gallery in Honiton is a famous public gallery in the county and regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions.
Aside from specific galleries to explore, the general art scene in Devon is second to none. Places such as Totnes, Exeter and Dartington are all known to be packed full of artisans, galleries and independent studios.
Live music shows
Live music in Devon makes up a large part of the art sector and is another reason why the county is such a hit with art lovers. The simple truth is that there are always lively gigs and exciting shows to check out around the county on most nights.
This even includes Broadway-style tribute acts that tour Devon venues or acts that include Broadway numbers in their setlist. Top places for live music in the county include The Palladium Club in Bideford and the Exeter Phoenix. If music is your thing, you’ll love the range of acts and shows you can catch here!
Museums in Devon
It’s fair to say that one of the most exciting things for art lovers about Devon is how diverse the scene is here. As well as stunning galleries and cool live music, the county also has some amazing museums to explore.
There are more than 75 to visit and each one has its own unique displays/artefacts to wow the crowds with. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter is a great example and perhaps the best known in all of the county. Other examples of interesting museums for art lovers to enjoy in Devon are the Ilfracombe Museum, the Dartmouth Museum, and the Museum of Barnstaple & North Devon.
Theatre in Devon
From the Princess Theatre in Torquay to The Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe and Exeter’s Northcott Theatre, this is a county that really comes alive for theatre. If you like seeing the best plays, comedy acts and shows, it is one of the top UK destinations to visit.
The really exciting thing about theatre in Devon is how it blends top touring names with the best in local talent. This means that art lovers are able to see both upcoming stars, keen amateur players and well-known stars tread the boards here.
Devon craft culture
Art is a sector that encompasses many things and it’s true to say that you’ll find most of them around Devon. This makes it a stop that any art lover must make when planning to see more of the UK.
The county has a strong tradition when it comes to crafting in particular and this includes ceramics, printmaking, woodwork and textiles. Towns such as Bovey Tracey and Ashburton sum this up, with their very own handmade craft scene to explore.
In addition, there are lots of craft markets to dive into around the county and these make a great place to pick up hand-made treats. Brixham Arts & Craft Market is especially popular for this, as is Ivybridge Artisan Market.
Devon is a top UK spot for art lovers
If you love art, Devon is a place you must visit at least once. As the above shows, it has masses of things to see and do for people into the arts. The only problem you’ll have is deciding exactly what to do first!
