Church of Saint James

The Church of Saint James sits quietly in Kingsbridge, a 14th-century building that rewards a proper wander around its interior. Stone arches, wooden pews worn smooth by centuries of use, and some genuinely good stained glass make it worth an hour of anyone's time - whether you're into churches or just seeking a moment of stillness during a holiday.

Historians and architecture types will find plenty to occupy them: the chancel's worth studying, and if you catch the light right, the windows throw colours across the floor that photographs better than you'd expect. Families won't struggle either - it's quiet enough that kids can look around without feeling rushed, though there's nothing interactive to hold attention beyond about twenty minutes.

Kingsbridge itself is a proper little market town, so you can easily combine a visit with a coffee and a wander through the high street. The nearest caravan parks - Start Bay just 1.5 miles away and Wilton Farm a shade further - both make decent bases if you're exploring South Devon. From either, the church is a straightforward drive or, if you're feeling ambitious, a decent walk through town.

Admission's typically free - as churches usually are - though a donation box sits near the entrance. No set opening hours to worry about either, which means you can call in whenever you're passing through. Early morning or late afternoon suits it best; less chance of bumping into weddings or services that way.