Abbey Park

Free entry and proper rewarding - that's the immediate appeal of Abbey Park. This Devon garden sits within easy reach of Torquay, making it a sensible morning or afternoon slot if you're staying at any of the nearby holiday parks like Parkdean Resorts or Hoburne Devon Bay. The grounds offer a gentle walk through planted areas and open spaces, the sort of place where you can actually breathe without fighting crowds or entrance fees.

It's best suited to families after a quieter day out, or older visitors who prefer a slow ramble over adrenaline. The garden won't hold your attention for five hours, but two to three hours feels about right depending on how much you linger on benches. Kids might get restless unless they're the exploring type - it's not a playground, it's genuinely about the gardens themselves.

Timing-wise, spring brings the obvious horticultural appeal, though summer days tend to be busy. Go mid-week if you can, early morning even better. The fact it's free removes any guilt about a brief visit, which actually works in its favour - pop in, stretch your legs, move on without denting the holiday budget.

Worth combining with other attractions in the Torquay area rather than treating as a destination in itself. But as a freebie break from caravan or glamping site routine, with genuine garden interest rather than manicured amusement, it does the job.