Heritage Centre

Seaton's Heritage Centre sits right in the heart of town and does exactly what it says on the tin - it tells you the story of this corner of Devon without any pretension. You'll find yourself looking at local artefacts, photographs from back when the seafront actually bustled, and exhibits that explain how this stretch of coast has changed over the decades. It's the sort of place where the volunteers behind the desk actually know what they're talking about, not just reading from a script.

The real audience here is anyone with a genuine interest in Devon's social history rather than big showstopping attractions. If you're the type who wants to understand a place properly before you start exploring it, this is worth an hour of your time. Families with curious kids aged ten and up will get something out of it; younger children might find it a bit dry unless they're genuinely keen on old stuff.

You'll want to check locally for current opening hours and whether there's an entry fee - details change seasonally in smaller museums. If you're staying at Beer Head Holiday Park, it's basically on your doorstep at just over a quarter mile away, which makes it convenient for a rainy afternoon. The Oakdown site, four miles out, is a decent base if you want quieter pitches but don't mind a short drive into town. Allow about 90 minutes here, then head down to the seafront for a proper walk.