Powderham Castle

The Exe Estuary stretches out below Powderham Castle in a way that makes you understand why the Earls of Devon chose this spot nearly 600 years ago. The castle itself is a proper fortress - part medieval, part stately home - and it dominates the landscape between Exeter and the coast with real presence.

Walking the grounds gives you layers of history without feeling like a school trip. The state rooms are genuinely impressive, packed with furniture and art that tells you how the other half lived. The kitchens are the real draw though - all copper pots and period detail that brings the place alive. You'll need a solid two to three hours to do it properly, maybe longer if you're one of those people who reads every plaque.

Families with younger kids should know it's not one of those attractions designed to tire them out. There's room to run about outdoors, and the deer park does add a bit of interest, but it's not a theme park. Teenagers who like history will get more from it than those dragged along reluctantly.

It sits nicely within reach of the holiday parks clustering around Dawlish and beyond - Cofton Holidays and Dawlish Sands are both under three miles away, so it works as a rainy-day option or an afternoon diversion. Admission isn't cheap, mind you, so check opening times and prices before heading over from Exeter. Worth building into a longer Devon coast trip rather than making a special journey.