Chester House

Chester House sits just outside Dawlish, a substantial period property that gives you a proper sense of how the gentry lived in Devon during its heyday. The house itself tells the story of centuries past, though I'll be honest - opening hours and admission details are sparse, so you'll need to do some detective work before heading out. That said, if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Haven Devon Cliffs or Dawlish Sands, it's close enough for a morning detour.

History buffs will find the most to latch onto here. The building's architecture speaks volumes about the period it represents, and there's something satisfying about standing in a room where actual people lived their actual lives. Families with older children who can appreciate historical context might get an hour or so out of it, though younger kids could find it a bit slow. Bring the camera - the exterior shots tend to be worth the film.

The real value is as part of a broader exploration of the Dawlish area. Pair it with a coastal walk along the seafront or a visit to the town itself, which has enough charm to fill a proper afternoon. Worth ringing ahead to confirm it's open when you plan to visit, as seasonal closures aren't uncommon with these period properties. If you're based at Golden Sands or Lady's Mile for a park holiday, factor it in as a rainy-day option rather than the main event.