Lidwell Chapel (13th Century Ruin)

Stone walls emerge from the Devon countryside like broken teeth, all that remains of this 13th-century chapel that once served the medieval community of Lidwell. The ruins stand on a gentle slope just outside Dawlish, their weathered limestone blocks telling a story that stretches back nearly eight centuries. What you'll find here are the partial foundations and fragments of walls, enough to trace the chapel's original rectangular footprint but not much more. The site sits in open farmland, so there's no fancy interpretation or visitor facilities - just you, the ruins, and whatever historical imagination you can muster. History enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see genuine medieval stonework up close, though families with young children might find there's not enough left standing to hold their interest for long. The location is fairly exposed, so it's one for a clear day when you can appreciate the surrounding Devon landscape. Access appears to be free, as with most ancient monument ruins in the countryside. Allow about twenty minutes unless you're particularly keen on medieval architecture. If you're staying at any of the holiday parks around Dawlish - Lady's Mile, Golden Sands, or Dawlish Sands among others - it makes for a pleasant short excursion, especially if you're combining it with other local walks or a trip into Dawlish itself.