Location Guide •
Detecting in Devon
England’s third largest county with diverse geology. Red sandstone farmland is productive for medieval material, while the river valleys have delivered Iron Age and Roman finds.
Top Site Type
Mid-Devon arable farmland
Best Detector Type
Multi-frequency
Region
South West
🏔
Geology & Terrain
Devonian red sandstone (Old Red Sandstone) in mid-Devon gives moderate preservation. Dartmoor and Exmoor granite and slate are acidic. River valley alluvium along the Exe, Taw and Tamar.
📍
Site Types To Target
Mid-Devon red sandstone arable fields, Exe and Taw valley farmland, coastal fields near medieval harbour sites
🪙
What You Can Find
Medieval coins and dress accessories, post-medieval material near harbour towns, Iron Age and Roman material in the river valleys
🏆
Notable Discoveries
The Hallaton Treasure equivalent in scale has not been found in Devon, but consistent Roman finds near Exeter (Isca Dumnoniorum). Notable Civil War relics from Dartmoor edge farmland.
🎯 Getting Permission Locally
Mid-Devon farmers are generally receptive. Dartmoor is National Park – no detecting without special permission. The South Hams has active clubs with good permissions.
💡 Pro Tips For This County
Red sandstone soils hold moisture well – detect after dry spells. Dartmoor is essentially off-limits and produces nothing due to acid soils. The Exe valley is your best bet.
Find local detectorists, clubs, suppliers and FLOs
Detecting in Devon?
Submit your club, suggest a correction or share a great spot — help make this guide the best local resource for detectorists in Devon.
Submit a ListingSuggest an Edit