Things To Do
in Devizes
Devizes is a historic market town located in Wiltshire, England. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Devizes Market Place and the impressive Devizes Castle. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Devizes is also home to a variety of shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, making it a charming destination for visitors seeking a taste of traditional English charm.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, visit the remarkable Devizes Castle and immerse yourself in its rich history.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, stopping by local shops for souvenirs. Visit the Wiltshire Museum to learn about the area's archaeology and heritage.
Have dinner at a traditional pub, experiencing local cuisine. End the evening with a walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal, enjoying the picturesque views.
Visit the iconic Devizes Castle to explore its magnificent architecture. Take a guided tour to understand the history behind this historic landmark.
Head to the Devizes Corn Exchange for an art exhibition or local event. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery and soak up the local culture.
Dine at a restaurant known for its local dishes. Enjoy a nightcap at a nearby pub while mingling with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with stunning architecture, including the famous Devizes Castle.
- Friendly community atmosphere with local events and festivals throughout the year.
- Beautiful surrounding countryside, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
- Good access to amenities including shops, schools, and health services.
- Proximity to notable attractions, such as the Kennet and Avon Canal.
- Limited public transport options can make getting to larger cities challenging.
- Smaller job market which may require commuting for some employment opportunities.
- Fewer nightlife options compared to larger towns and cities.
- Some residents may find the pace of life a bit slow if they prefer a more urban lifestyle.
- Higher housing costs relative to average local incomes.
Best Activities in Devizes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A remarkable flight of 29 locks that form part of the Kennet and Avon Canal. A great place for walking, cycling or enjoying a picnic while watching boats navigate the locks.
Visit the historic Devizes Castle and explore the surrounding grounds. Perfect for a leisurely stroll while taking in the fascinating architecture and local history.
Discover various walking trails around Devizes, including countryside routes that offer beautiful landscapes, wildlife watching opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Experience the local culture by visiting the outdoor market, held weekly. Enjoy browsing local produce, crafts, and street food, while soaking up the vibrant community spirit.
Enjoy a family outing at parks like the Green Park and the beautiful scenic views at the local nature reserves, offering space for recreational activities and relaxation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Devizes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Devizes
Visit one of these nice places.
A flight of 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities.
Visit the brewery for a chance to capture some unique photos and experience the local culture.
Historic monument in the town centre that provides a great vantage point for capturing the surrounding architecture and atmosphere.
Food in Devizes
Devizes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dry-cured ham, often enjoyed as a part of hearty ploughman's lunches or in sandwiches. Notable places to try it include The Black Swan and The New Inn.
Must-Try!
This savory pastry dish, often filled with locally sourced meats and vegetables, is a local specialty. It can be savored at The George & Dragon and The Bear Hotel.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Devizes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. Visitors can savor delectable street food from stalls offering international cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Devizes, as in much of the UK, politeness is highly valued. Use 'please' and 'thank you' regularly, and greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning'. When meeting someone for the first time, a formal greeting is often appreciated.
Devizes has a rich history and many local traditions. Showing an interest in local customs and participating in community events can be a great way to show respect. Additionally, understanding historical sites and respecting their significance is important.
People in Devizes may value personal space and may be reserved when interacting with strangers. It's important to respect personal boundaries. Also, keeping noise levels down in public settings, especially in quieter neighborhoods, is a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Devizes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Devizes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Devizes, as in the rest of the UK, tipping is generally considered a voluntary practice, particularly in the hospitality and service sectors. It's common to leave a gratuity of around 10% to 15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In casual dining settings or at pubs, customers often round up the bill or leave loose change. Tipping taxi drivers is usually round to the nearest pound. It's not customary to tip baristas in coffee shops, though some may appreciate small change.
Payment practices in Devizes commonly include cash, debit, and credit card transactions. Contactless payments are widely accepted, with many places offering options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. In restaurants and shops, a card machine is typically available. It's advisable to check if there is a minimum spend set for card payments. Some establishments may add service charges directly to the bill, especially for large groups, which should be taken into account when deciding on tipping.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Devizes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Devizes for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities such as walking and hiking.
Ideal time for exploring local attractions, enjoying outdoor events, and experiencing the longest daylight hours.
Great for enjoying the colorful foliage, harvest festivals, and cooler temperatures for outdoor excursions.
A charming time to visit with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and the possibility of a winter wonderland if it snows.
Devizes at Night
Hiking in Devizes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large ancient forest offering a variety of walking trails through towering trees and picturesque scenery.
A beautiful area with rolling hills, open fields, and a network of footpaths, ideal for hiking and enjoying panoramic views.
A historic flight of 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal, providing a scenic walking route with opportunities to explore the canal.
Famous prehistoric sites that offer walking trails with stunning views and rich historical significance.
A tranquil spot with varied walking routes, characterized by its open fields and lush landscapes nearby Devizes.
Aiports
How to reach Devizes by plane.
Bristol Airport is the main airport serving the city of Bristol and the surrounding area, located approximately 30 miles southwest of Devizes.
London Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, located about 80 miles east of Devizes, offering a wide range of international flights.
London Gatwick is another major airport located approximately 100 miles southeast of Devizes, serving both domestic and international destinations.
Southampton Airport is located about 40 miles south of Devizes, providing both domestic and international flights, particularly to Europe.
Bournemouth Airport is situated approximately 50 miles south of Devizes and serves a mix of domestic and European international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Devizes, representing the majority of the population.
Includes White Irish, White Gypsy or Traveller, and White Other categories, comprising a smaller segment of the community.
Includes South Asian groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Chinese individuals.
Represents individuals from Black African and Black Caribbean backgrounds.
Includes individuals identifying with two or more ethnic groups.
Comprises smaller populations including those of Arab or other unspecified backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely popular sport in Devizes, with local clubs and teams participating in various leagues and competitions.
Rugby union is enjoyed by many in the area, with local teams offering games for all ages.
Cricket is a traditional summer sport in Devizes, with local clubs that cater to both casual players and serious athletes.
Netball is popular among women and girls in the community, with local clubs and schools participating in leagues.
Devizes is known for its scenic routes, making cycling a popular recreational activity and competitive sport.
Tennis is enjoyed at local clubs and parks, with facilities available for both casual play and competition.
Swimming is a popular activity in Devizes, with public pools and local teams promoting fitness and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Devizes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Devizes provides an array of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, such as The Little Red Café and The Hourglass, which offer diverse and creative plant-based dishes.
Several establishments, including The Three Crowns and The Crown and Anchor, cater to gluten-free diners with dedicated menus featuring a range of gluten-free options.