Avon Mill Garden Centre

A garden centre might not sound like the main event, but Avon Mill near Kingsbridge is properly worth a stop if you're camping or caravanning in South Devon. It's a functioning mill turned retail space - you get the actual working buildings, not just a car park full of bedding plants. The grounds sprawl across a decent chunk of land with mature trees, water features, and enough quirky corners to keep you wandering for a good hour or two.

The appeal depends on who you are. Gardeners will spend ages browsing the plant stock and landscape materials. Kids usually perk up at the water features and open space - it's not a theme park, but there's room to move around without feeling herded. If you're into the bones of old Devon farming, the mill structure itself tells a story worth following.

You can browse free of charge, though you'll want to budget for anything you actually buy. Go mid-week if possible - weekends get chocker with locals. Allow 90 minutes max unless you're genuinely into plants.

It slots nicely into a South Devon camping trip. You're only 4 or 5 miles from South Devon Camping at Lower Terawhiti Farm and Karrageen, so it's an easy morning outing before heading to the beaches. The Kingsbridge estuary is close by too if you want proper scenery. Don't make it your main attraction, but if you're in the area with a caravan or tent, it's a decent rainy-day option or a gentle wander before lunch.