Devon
WELCOME TO Devon
Province Overview
Exeter
6,708 km2
1,194,700
English
Popular
Geography and Tourist Attractions
Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.
Exmoor National Park
Plymouth
Exeter
Political
Economy and Government
Devon is a diverse and thriving region with a range of industries and businesses. The county has a strong economy, with a GDP of over £20 billion (as of 2017). The largest sectors in Devon include health and social care, education, retail, tourism, and manufacturing. The county is also home to a number of small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in the tech and creative sectors.
Devon's local government is divided into two tiers: Devon County Council and district councils. Devon County Council is responsible for services such as education, social care, and highways, while district councils handle local issues such as housing and planning.
The county's government is committed to sustainable development and is working to reduce its carbon footprint. Devon has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions and is investing in renewable energy projects such as wind and solar power. In addition, the county has a strong focus on tourism, with initiatives such as the Visit Devon campaign promoting the region as a destination for visitors. Overall, Devon's economy and government are focused on growth and sustainability, with a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents.
History
History and Culture
Devon has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. The region was home to Celtic tribes in pre-Roman times, and later became part of the Roman province of Britannia. In the medieval period, Devon was a center for wool production and trade, and was also a strategic location for coastal defense.
Devon has a rich cultural heritage, with a thriving arts and music scene. The region is home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery in Exeter, and the Burton Art Gallery and Museum in Bideford. Devon is also famous for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, glass-blowing, and basket-weaving.
Devon has a strong literary tradition, with many famous writers associated with the region. These include Agatha Christie, who set many of her novels in the fictional village of St. Mary Mead, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who wrote the Sherlock Holmes story "The Hound of the Baskervilles" while staying in Dartmoor.
Devon also has a strong culinary heritage, with famous dishes including cream teas, pasties, and cider. The county is also home to a number of food festivals throughout the year, celebrating local produce and cuisine. Overall, Devon's history and culture are rich and diverse, and continue to be celebrated and cherished by its residents and visitors alike.