Fosfelle Lakes

Two lakes separated by a narrow strip of land, Fosfelle offers something genuinely different from the coast-battered attractions around Bideford. You get proper freshwater fishing here - pike, perch, roach - which makes it popular with anglers who know what they're doing. The setting is quiet, almost forgotten-feeling, which is either brilliant or slightly dull depending on your mood.

The walk around them takes about 45 minutes if you're not rushing. There's a car park, though it's small and gets full weekends. Bring binoculars if you're into birds; herons and cormorants hang about. Kids might enjoy it for an hour or so, but don't expect them to stay entertained for half a day - there's no facilities, no play equipment, just water and trees.

It's free to visit, which is a decent bonus. The real value is as a quiet break from Bideford's bustle rather than a destination in itself. Works well if you're staying at Coastal Cabins Glamping up the road - honestly, it's close enough to pop over mid-afternoon when everyone's getting cabin fever. The other parks like Roeys Retreat are a bit further out, which makes Fosfelle less convenient from those bases.

Go early morning or late afternoon if you want peace. Midday brings dog walkers and the occasional family picnic.