Solo travelling in Devon. Sometimes the best company you can keep is your own. Whether you’re seeking a digital detox, a creative reset. A well-deserved break from the bustle of daily life, solo travel offers a kind of freedom that’s hard to replicate. There are few better places to experience this than the South Devon coast — particularly when your home base is the warm and welcoming Brightham House Boutique Bed & Breakfast, nestled near the charming coastal town of Salcombe.
Welcome to Brightham House: Where Comfort Meets Character
From the moment you arrive at Brightham House, you’ll know you’ve made the right choice. Owned and run by the ever-hospitable Scott and Alistair, this boutique B&B isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s an experience in itself. Their two friendly dogs are often the first to greet you, tail-wagging and full of charm, setting the tone for the warm hospitality that follows.
The interiors of Brightham House are delightfully eclectic, combining coastal chic with playful vintage touches. Each room has its own unique personality, styled to perfection and brimming with thoughtful details — from locally sourced treats to luxury bedding and plush bathrobes. Whether you’re curled up with a book in one of the cosy lounges or enjoying your breakfast in the sunny dining area, you’ll feel like you’re staying in a home designed just for you.
Exploring Devon, Solo Style
South Devon is a dream for solo travellers. There’s something liberating about exploring this postcard-perfect part of England at your own pace, with the freedom to wander down hidden paths or linger over a leisurely seaside lunch. Brightham House is perfectly positioned for this kind of adventure.
Just a stone’s throw from the stunning South West Coast Path, you’ll find walking routes to suit every level. Lace up your boots and take a cliffside ramble towards Hope Cove, or explore the golden sands and turquoise waters of Bantham Beach. If you’re a confident swimmer, bring your suit — or better yet, your wild swim gear — and dive into the invigorating waters of the English Channel. There’s nothing quite like a solitary dip in the sea to make you feel alive.
For a gentler pace, explore the leafy lanes and countryside trails inland. Brightham House even offers e-bike rentals, giving you the freedom to cruise effortlessly through rolling hills and picture-perfect villages. Pedal your way to a pub lunch, visit local artisan shops, or just let the Devon breeze carry you wherever it pleases.
Salcombe and Beyond
Just a short drive or bike ride away is **Salcombe**, a town that seems to have been plucked straight from a storybook. Boutique shops, ice cream parlours, and waterfront cafés offer plenty of ways to while away the hours. Watch the sailboats glide across the harbour, take the ferry to **East Portlemouth**, or simply sit on the dock with fish and chips and feel the sun on your face.
You’ll find plenty of welcoming spots to eat alone without feeling out of place. From harbourside seafood restaurants to rustic farm cafés, the food scene in this part of Devon is as fresh as the sea air. Many local menus are built around what’s seasonal and nearby, so you can expect flavourful dishes that nourish both body and soul.
Getting Here Is Easy
Whether you’re travelling light or planning a longer stay, getting to Brightham House is refreshingly simple. You can **drive**, of course — there’s ample parking on-site — but public transport is also a great option. Take the **train to Totnes** and then hop on a **local bus or taxi** for the scenic ride to Malborough, where Brightham House awaits.
And once you arrive, you might just find you don’t want to leave.
More Than Just a Stay
What makes Brightham House so ideal for solo travellers isn’t just its location or design — it’s the sense of connection it fosters. Scott and Alistair have created a space where you can feel completely at ease, whether you’re mingling with other guests over breakfast, enjoying a quiet evening with a glass of wine in the garden, or simply basking in the tranquillity of your own company.
It’s the kind of place where you can wake up without an agenda, follow your whims, and return each evening to a space that feels like home — only better.
Final Thoughts
Travelling solo doesn’t have to mean being alone. In South Devon, and especially at Brightham House Boutique B&B, it means having the time, space, and setting to reconnect with yourself. Whether you’re hiking coastal paths, swimming in the sea, cycling through countryside lanes, or enjoying a delicious breakfast prepared with love, this is a summer escape that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
So pack your bag, bring your curiosity, and let Devon — and the warmth of Brightham House — do the rest.