Arch of Abbey Cloisters

The stone archway that survives from Tavistock Abbey's medieval cloisters is one of those finds that rewards a gentle wander through Devon's quietest corners. What you're looking at is basically all that's left standing from the 11th-century Benedictine monastery - a single, rather grand arch that speaks to how substantial the place once was before Henry VIII's dissolution crews did their work. It's peaceful, properly atmospheric, and takes about ten minutes to appreciate properly once you've located it.

This is squarely a spot for history types rather than kids looking for action. If you're into monastic ruins and medieval stonework, it's worth the short detour from Tavistock town centre. The arch itself is free to view - it's not behind barriers - though there's minimal signage, so you might need to ask locals for exact directions. Allow yourself a quarter-hour maximum unless you're genuinely fascinated by 12th-century masonry.

Where it works best is as a break between the two excellent holiday parks in the area. Langstone Manor and Woodovis are both under four miles away and rated highly by families, so you could pop into town, find the arch, grab lunch, and be back at your pod or caravan by afternoon. It's the kind of thing that takes fifteen minutes but adds texture to a week exploring Dartmoor and the Tavy Valley. Don't expect much, and you won't be disappointed.