Discover Devon with Maps: Your Guide to Exploring Scenic Routes and Hidden Gems

Exploring Devon’s stunning landscapes becomes an adventure with the right map in hand. Whether we’re planning a coastal hike, a scenic drive, or a visit to quaint villages, Devon maps guide us through the county’s rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical landmarks.

From the rugged cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the serene expanses of Dartmoor, Devon’s diverse terrain offers something for everyone. With detailed maps, we can uncover hidden gems, navigate picturesque routes, and make the most of our journey. Let’s delve into the world of Devon maps and discover how they can enhance our experience of this captivating region.

Key Takeaways

• Devon maps: Essential tools for exploring Devon’s landscapes, guiding visitors through natural beauty and historical landmarks.
• Types of maps: Includes physical, road, tourist, digital, and specialised maps, each offering unique insights and navigational aids.
• Historical significance: Devon maps illustrate the region’s development over centuries, with early maps by cartographers like Saxton and Speed.
• Notable features: Highlight major cities, natural landmarks, and historical sites, enhancing the appreciation of Devon’s diverse landscape.
• Where to find maps: Available online and in physical stores, including bookshops, outdoor retailers, and visitor centres, providing accessibility for all types of explorers.

Overview Of Devon Maps

Devon maps offer a wealth of information, making exploring the region easier and more enjoyable. They highlight key areas, landmarks, and routes. From walking pathways to driving routes, Devon maps cover all.

Physical Maps

Physical maps of Devon display geographical features such as hills, rivers, and forests. They are essential for hikers and nature enthusiasts. An example is the Ordnance Survey map, which provides detailed topographical data, including elevation levels and terrain types.

Road Maps

Road maps focus on the road network within Devon. They indicate major highways, minor roads, and scenic routes. A popular choice is the AA Road Map, which includes points of interest like heritage sites and petrol stations.

Tourist Maps

Tourist maps of Devon highlight attractions, historical sites, and recreational facilities. They often include town maps with detailed layouts. One notable example is the Explore Devon map, known for its comprehensive guides to popular destinations and activities.

Digital Maps

Digital maps offer interactive and up-to-date information. They are accessible via smartphones and tablets. Google Maps and OpenStreetMap are prime examples, allowing users to get real-time navigation and satellite imagery.

Specialised Maps

Specialised maps cater to specific interests, such as birdwatching or cycling. The Devon Cycle Map, for instance, provides curated routes for cyclists, including safety information and cycle repair stations.

Understanding these various types of Devon maps can significantly enhance our navigation and discovery of the region’s offerings.

Historical Significance

Devon maps hold immense historical value. They illustrate how the region’s geography, settlements, and infrastructure have developed over centuries, offering insights into various historical periods.

Early Maps And Their Makers

Early maps of Devon date back to the 16th century. These maps, primarily hand-drawn, were created by renowned cartographers like Christopher Saxton and John Speed. Saxton’s 1575 map, commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I, marked one of the first detailed representations of Devon. John Speed’s 1611 map, part of his “Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine,” offered another significant depiction, known for its detailed town plans and historical notes. These early maps serve as gateways to understanding how the cartographers saw and interpreted Devon’s landscape centuries ago.

Evolution Over The Centuries

Maps of Devon evolved significantly over the centuries. In the 18th and 19th centuries, advancements in surveying techniques led to more accurate and detailed maps. The Ordnance Survey, established in 1791, played a crucial role in this evolution. Their maps provided precise topographical details and helped shape modern cartography in Devon. As we moved into the 20th century, aerial photography and digital mapping technologies emerged, further enhancing the accuracy and detail of Devon maps. Today, digital platforms offer a dynamic view of Devon, integrating historical layers with modern data to create a comprehensive depiction of the region’s evolution.

These historical maps of Devon highlight the technological and artistic progress in cartography as well as the region’s changing landscapes and settlements.

Types Of Devon Maps

Devon offers an array of maps catering to different interests. From detailed topographical data to interactive digital versions, each map type helps enhance our exploration of this captivating region.

Topographical Maps

Topographical maps, such as those from the Ordnance Survey, provide detailed data on Devon’s terrain. They highlight elevation, contour lines, and natural features like rivers and forests. These maps are vital for hikers navigating the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor and Exmoor. They also help identify valleys, hills, and trails, which are essential for safe and enjoyable hikes.

Tourist Maps

Tourist maps focus on attractions and recreational facilities across Devon. The Explore Devon map, for example, pinpoints landmarks like Dartmoor’s ancient stone circles and the Jurassic Coast’s fossil-rich cliffs. These maps also include amenities such as parking and visitor centres, making it easier to plan our visits to popular sites and hidden gems.

Historical Reproductions

Historical reproductions of Devon maps offer a glimpse into the region’s past. Maps from the 16th century by cartographers like Christopher Saxton and John Speed show early interpretations of Devon’s landscape. These reproductions reveal historical settlements, old roadways, and past geographical features that help us understand Devon’s historical development and heritage.

Digital Maps

Digital maps, accessed via smartphones and computers, provide real-time navigation and interactive capabilities. Google Maps and OpenStreetMap are key examples, offering up-to-date information on roads, traffic, and places of interest. These maps often integrate user-generated content, such as reviews and photos, enriching our experience with practical details and dynamic updates.

Notable Features

Detailed maps of Devon showcase a variety of notable features, ranging from bustling cities to serene natural landmarks. Understanding these features enhances the navigation and appreciation of Devon’s diverse landscape.

Major Cities And Towns

Maps highlight major urban areas, such as Exeter and Plymouth. Exeter, the county town, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Plymouth is known for its maritime heritage and modern facilities. Other notable towns include Torquay, known for its coastline, and Barnstaple, which holds historic significance.

Natural Landmarks

Devon’s natural landmarks appear prominently on maps. Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks attract hikers and nature enthusiasts with their expansive moorland. The Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage site, features dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations. Maps also mark beaches such as Woolacombe and Salcombe for coastal exploration.

Historical Sites

Maps detail Devon’s extensive historical sites. Exeter Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, marks a central point of interest. Maps of Plymouth highlight the Mayflower Steps, related to historic voyages. The county also features ancient ruins, such as the Tintagel Castle, linked to Arthurian legend and medieval history.

Where To Find Devon Maps

Finding maps of Devon is easy with both online and physical options available. These resources help you explore all that Devon has to offer.

Online Resources

Several websites provide detailed maps of Devon. The Ordnance Survey’s official site offers a variety of maps, ranging from landranger maps to explorer maps, which are perfect for those planning to hike. Google Maps and OpenStreetMap offer digital, interactive maps that are accessible via smartphones and tablets, allowing real-time navigation and user-generated content. For historical maps, the British Library’s online catalogue presents an extensive collection, including early works by cartographers like Christopher Saxton. Additionally, the Devon County Council’s website hosts digital tourist maps detailing local attractions, trails, and facilities, enhancing the travel planning experience.

Store Locations

Physical shops across Devon also stock an array of maps. Local bookshops in Exeter, such as Waterstones on the High Street, carry a comprehensive selection of Ordnance Survey maps. Outdoor retailers like Cotswold Outdoor in Plymouth and Go Outdoors in Exeter offer specialised maps for hiking and cycling. Visitor centres in popular tourist areas, including Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, have dedicated sections for maps and guidebooks. These centres provide valuable local insights alongside maps, making them a great starting point for any expedition. For antique and historical maps, dedicated establishments like the Rare and Antique Bookshop in Totnes offer unique finds.

Conclusion

Exploring Devon with the right maps can transform any journey into an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re hiking through Dartmoor’s rugged terrain or navigating the charming villages along the Jurassic Coast, detailed maps are essential tools. They not only guide us through scenic routes but also help uncover hidden gems that enrich our experience of this captivating region.

By understanding the various types of maps available, from physical and road maps to digital and specialised options, we can enhance our navigation and discovery. Historical maps provide fascinating insights into Devon’s past, while modern digital maps offer interactive features that keep us informed in real-time.

Ultimately, the rich variety of maps available ensures that every explorer can find the perfect resource to suit their needs. Whether you’re a history buff, an avid hiker, or simply someone looking to explore Devon’s picturesque landscapes, there’s a map out there that will make your journey all the more rewarding.