Moving House in Devon? 10 Top Tips for a Smooth Move

If you’re planning on moving house in Devon, there are certain things you will need to know.

With its stunning beaches, rolling hills, charming towns, and laid-back lifestyle, Devon is not just a place to holiday; this southwest gem has become one of the UK’s most desirable places to live.

Whether you’re relocating and moving out of busy London for a slower pace of life, family reasons, or you are lucky enough to be able to work remotely, Devon ticks all the boxes for beauty and balance.

But like any big home move, settling here takes planning.

From winding country lanes to unpredictable weather, there are quirks in Devon that catch newcomers eager to settle here off guard.

But don’t worry, we have rounded up 10 essential tips to make your move to Devon smooth, stress-free, and even, dare we say it, enjoyable!

Let’s get started.

1. Research Your Devon Destination Thoroughly

Before you pack a single box, take time to get to know Devon’s very different regions.

Although there is undoubtedly something for everyone somewhere in this incredible county, you must be sure that the one you choose is right for you, your family, and your work.

The South Hams (including Dartmouth and Salcombe) is known for its coastal charm and sailing lifestyle, while North Devon (Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Woolacombe) offers dramatic cliffs and surf culture.

Exeter, the county’s capital, is vibrant and well-connected, perfect if you still need city conveniences.

Each area comes with its own property market, pace of life and commute options, so explore local guides and estate agent listings before committing.

Visit Visit Devon and Rightmove for a feel of what each area has to offer.

2. Choose the Right Time of Year to Move

Avoid the peak summer tourist season and congested roads; aim for a spring or autumn move for a smoother experience.

Timing is everything.

Although summertime is traditionally the busiest period of the year for removal companies, it is not always advisable.

Devon’s roads can get particularly congested in summer thanks to seasonal holiday traffic, particularly along the A38 and the region’s coastal routes.

If at all possible, aim to move outside of peak tourist months (June–August).

Spring and early autumn are ideal. The weather is kinder, and removal companies often have more flexibility.

Plus, with the UK experiencing hotter-than-ever summers, moving at this time is really hot, exhausting work.

However, if your children are tied to a move during the summer holiday period, book your removal service well in advance and allow extra travel time.

Devon’s narrow rural roads can slow even short journeys, so patience is key.

3. Hire a Reliable Local Removal Company

A professional company with experience in Devon is essential for navigating the county’s tricky rural lanes and weather.

Devon isn’t the place to risk a DIY move if you can help it. Winding country lanes, steep driveways, and unpredictable weather can make logistics tricky.

Choose a professional company experienced in rural and long-distance moves.

White & Company, for example, has been helping families relocate for over 150 years, offering everything from full packing and storage to international shipping.

A professional team can handle the heavy lifting (literally) and get your belongings safely to your new home without the drama.

Learn more about removal options at White & Company Removals & Storage.

4. Double-Check Access and Parking at Your New Property

Check your new home for narrow lanes or steep driveways and report any access issues to your removal company in advance.

Access is a common oversight when moving to rural or coastal homes in Devon.

Some cottages sit at the end of single-track lanes, have limited parking and tight gateways and even sit on very steep hillsides.

Before moving day, visit your new property and note any potential access issues such as narrow turns, steep inclines, or low bridges.

If you’re unsure, share photos or measurements with your removal company so they can plan with smaller vehicles or shuttle vans if needed.

It’s a simple step that can save a lot of frustration and time on moving day.

5. Prepare for the Great British Weather

Be ready for Devon’s unpredictable weather by ensuring your belongings and new floors are protected from rain and mud.

Devon’s weather is as beautiful as it is unpredictable. Coastal winds, moorland mist, or sudden rain showers are all part of the package.

If you aren’t using a professional mover who is used to moving people in all weathers, don’t forget to protect your furniture and boxes with waterproof covers.

The same goes for your carpets. In wet weather, carpets can very quickly become muddy and wet.

Good DIY stores such as B&Q supply plastic adhesive protector film that you can put down and simply take up after everything is indoors.

If you’re unpacking into an older property, keep a dehumidifier handy; stone cottages can hold moisture, especially in winter.

And don’t forget a warm coat and sturdy shoes: moving day might mean multiple outdoor trips, no matter what the forecast says.

6. Sort Out Utilities and Broadband Early

Contact utility providers well in advance, as rural services can take longer to connect, and check broadband speeds.

In rural areas, utilities can take longer to set up.

Before moving, confirm your new home’s suppliers for electricity, gas, and water, and register your accounts as soon as you exchange contracts.

Broadband can be another sticking point; not all villages have full-fibre access yet.

Check your options using Openreach’s broadband checker or Ofcom’s availability tool. If you’re working remotely, you’ll want this nailed down well before moving day.

Moving home is the perfect time to check if there are any good deals available and save yourself some money.

Sites such as Confused.com and USwitch are ideal for this.

7. Get to Know Local Life Quickly

Once you’ve landed, make the effort to dive straight into local life.

Devon’s communities are famously friendly, but things move at a gentler pace, and relationships are built face-to-face, not online.

Some great ways to expand your social circle as soon as possible are by visiting local farmers’ markets, pub quizzes, or volunteer days.

Websites like Devon County Council will prove invaluable when you first arrive. Council websites are a mine of helpful and practical information.

Visit the South Devon tourist page and find out what’s going on in your area, whether you join a sailing club, walking group or village fête, getting involved is the fastest way to feel at home.

8. Label and Pack with Rural Living in Mind

Pack a detailed essentials box and label everything clearly, as the nearest shop may not be close by.

If you’re moving to the countryside, think practically about unpacking.

You might not have easy access to shops straight away, so pack an essentials box with cleaning supplies, a kettle, tea, snacks, a torch, and loo roll to tide you over until you can do a proper shop.

Label boxes by room and priority level  “open first,” “garage,” “kitchen,” etc.

If your movers offer a professional packing service (as White & Company does), it’s well worth it.

Having carried out countless home moves across the county, we know exactly how to pack to protect furniture and avoid damage on Devon’s bumpier backroads.

9. Plan for Pets and Children

Minimise stress for children and pets on moving day by arranging care or setting up a dedicated quiet room for them.

Devon’s open spaces make it ideal for families and animal lovers, but moving day can be stressful for both.

Having someone to take care of your pet is the best idea. Moving home is very bewildering and unsettling for most animals.

If you are moving long-distance, ensure you set up a quiet room for pets away from the chaos of boxes and movers.

Take a look at the PDSA’s Moving house with pet’s article, it is packed with helpful tips and tricks.

Similarly, children need to be taken care of, too. From toddlers to teenagers, it’s a stressful time for kids.

Take a look at our 16 Remarkable Tips for Moving Home with Kids and make the transition easier for your children.

10. Take Time to Enjoy the Devon Lifestyle

It’s time to enjoy your new life in Devon. 

After all the hustle and bustle of moving, take a moment to remember why you chose Devon in the first place.

This county isn’t just somewhere to live; it’s a lifestyle all its own.

Weekends here are for slowing down: wandering across Dartmoor National Park, indulging in a proper cream tea in a village tearoom, or watching the sun sink behind Woolacombe Bay.

Devon’s outdoor spaces are made for exploring, whether it’s the dog-friendly beaches of Saunton Sands and Bigbury-on-Sea, or peaceful riverside walks around Exeter and Totnes.

Before heading out, check beach access and local tips on The Beach Guide or Discover Devon.

Breathe in the sea air, soak up the open space, and enjoy the genuine friendliness that makes Devon special.

Once you do, you’ll realise every box packed and mile travelled was worth it. Devon has a way of making you feel right at home in no time at all.

Devon rewards those who embrace it!

Moving House in Devon? Move Smart, Move Stress-Free, Move with White & Company

Yes, moving house in Devon is daunting, but with the right preparation (and the right help), Devon welcomes you with open arms.

Whether you’re relocating from London, the Midlands, Scotland or just down the road, a professional removal company like White & Company can make the difference between a chaotic day and a smooth transition.

So, plan early, pack smart, and get ready to enjoy life in one of the most beautiful corners of the UK.

We can arrange a pre-move survey either in person or via a moving home video service after which you will receive our no obligation quotation for your move.

It’s free of charge so you have nothing to lose, get in touch with us today.

For your added peace of mind, we have been members of the removal industry regulars the British Association of Removers (BAR) for decades ensuring you and your belongings are in safe hands.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.