Make a real difference in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
One of the best things about working for Devon County Council is the opportunity to work and make a real difference in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
Devon is one of the largest counties in the UK, and the only one to have two coastlines. It has a wonderful variety of landscapes and activities to enjoy, and has good transport links to the rest of the country. Whatever your interests, Devon has something for everyone
Coast
Devon’s two coastlines are made up of the South and North coasts. The south coast boasts the ‘English Riviera’ of Torbay, the much sought-after South Hams area and the fascinating Jurassic coast, with plenty of opportunities to participate in a variety of water sports. The North Coast is beloved by beach lovers and surfers, with Woolacombe winning best beach in the UK multiple times and being ranked as the 4th best beach in Europe. Both coasts are encompassed by the South West Coast Path, and are much-loved by walkers of all levels.
Image by Alex Graeme
Countryside
In Devon we are lucky to have two of the country’s 15 National Parks. Dartmoor, with its high granite tors, ancient settlements and myths and legends makes up a sizeable part of South Devon, and in the north-east Exmoor rolls down to the coast before continuing into Somerset. Devon has a great variety of countryside, with rivers, hill ranges and forest. This makes the County a great spot for walking, mountain biking, wildlife watching and all kinds of outdoor activities. Visit Devon for inspiration about what to do and where to go, and Explore Devon the naturally active way.
Exeter
A small city that packs a big punch, Exeter is one of the most vibrant, attractive and historically interesting cities in England. A cathedral city and Devon’s county town, Exeter is where our County Hall is based. This exciting city boasts independent bars and restaurants and many great visitor attractions. It is also home to the popular quayside which has plenty of bars and cafés to enjoy as well as opportunities to canoe, kayak and even paddleboard.
Exeter has a real sense of individuality. Its varied cultural scene is embraced by proud locals, and the diverse mix of eateries means it is renowned as one of the foodie capitals of the South West. Head to the West Quarter or the cobbled Gandy Street to discover a great mix of independent shops and boutiques, cafes and bars.
When it comes to culture Exeter is renowned in the South West for its independent arts scene and it is firmly on the map as a destination for top sporting events and music. A good mix of independent venues such as the Exeter Phoenix, and large venues such as nearby Powderham Castle play host to a packed calendar of events and festivals throughout the year.
In Devon we love the outdoors. The city's location in the heart of the County, surrounded by miles of countryside and close to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast, means there are plenty of opportunities for adventure. This is the perfect place to try a new activity, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Transport
Devon has good transport links with the rest of the country. There are major rail stations in Plymouth and Exeter, with trains that can reach Bristol in one hour, London within two hours and Birmingham within two and a half hours. There are also connecting trains to the north of the county running from Exeter to Barnstaple.
The M5 Motorway runs to Exeter, and the Devon Expressway and North Devon Link Road provide excellent connections to the rest of the County.
Devon is also served by Exeter Airport, recently voted the happiest in the UK, and has ferry links to the continent from Plymouth. There are also extensive cycle networks across the County, from Drake’s Trail to the Granite Way.