Kennaway House

The red sandstone facade of Kennaway House commands attention the moment you spot it near Budleigh Salterton. This 19th-century mansion sits elevated above the coastal town, a proper statement of Victorian confidence and taste. Inside, you'll find period rooms that actually feel lived-in rather than sterile - the kind of place where you can imagine what Sunday afternoons looked like for the Kennaway family rather than just staring at velvet ropes.

It's worth a visit if you're into domestic history and want to understand how the upper-middle classes furnished and decorated their homes, but be honest with yourself: this isn't a sprawling country estate with grounds to wander for hours. You'll spend 90 minutes here, maybe two hours if you're thorough. The real draw is the building itself and the glimpse into Victorian life, so history enthusiasts and adults interested in architecture will get more from it than families with restless children.

Budleigh Salterton itself is a genteel seaside town with decent walks along the coastal path, so you can easily pair this with a proper afternoon exploring. If you're staying at one of the excellent holiday parks nearby - Ladram Bay is just 2.2 miles away and consistently rated five stars - this makes for a rainy afternoon activity before heading back for tea. Check opening hours before driving over; visitor information isn't abundant online. Worth the detour if you're already in the area, less so if it's your sole reason for visiting Devon.