Beach view

The Devon coastline around Ilfracombe delivers the kind of seascapes that remind you why people bother with British beaches at all. Golden cliffs rise sharply behind a proper working harbour, and the water - when the light's right - shifts from grey to something almost Mediterranean. You're looking at a working fishing town, not a manicured resort, which means it's genuine and occasionally a bit rough around the edges.

What you actually do here is walk. The South West Coast Path runs through, offering stretches that take you past Widmouth Head and along dramatic rock formations. It's not a destination where you stand in one spot and admire - it's a place where you move through the landscape, stopping when something catches your eye. Allow a couple of hours minimum for a proper explore, though you could easily spend a full day if the weather holds.

Walkers and photographers will get the most from it. Families with young kids might find the clifftop walks a bit exposed and tiring. The light is best in late afternoon when it catches the water and brings out the sandstone colours.

You're well-positioned if you're based at Watermouth Valley Camping Park or Sandaway Beach Holiday Park - both are practically on the doorstep. Newberry Valley Touring and Camping Park is also close enough for a quick morning walk before coffee. This works well as part of a broader North Devon coast circuit rather than a standalone destination. Go when the tide's out if you want beach access; the cliffs do the heavy lifting visually regardless.