Pridhamsleigh Cavern

Deep underground near South Brent, Pridhamsleigh Cavern is a proper show-stopper if you're after something different from the typical seaside holiday park routine. It's a natural cave system carved through limestone, and what makes it special is the raw geology on display - you're literally walking through millions of years of rock formation with virtually no commercial polish. The passage is tight in places, genuinely atmospheric, and the kind of spot that reminds you why the South West's geology matters.

Walkers and families with kids old enough not to panic in confined spaces will get the most from it. There's something about seeing stalactites and underground streams that makes children properly think differently about the landscape. Adults tend to appreciate the lack of visitor-centre faffing about.

Reality check: this isn't a theme-park cave experience. It's undeveloped in the best way, which also means you'll want to check access arrangements before turning up - opening hours and admission aren't widely advertised, so a phone call ahead is sensible rather than a wasted journey. Allow an hour or so if you do get in.

It's an easy addition to a Dartmoor park holiday. Both Ashbourne Woods and Dornafield Dartmoor Caravan Club are close by, so you could combine this with walks across the moor itself. The real appeal is the contrast - spend a morning underground, spend the afternoon on moorland that couldn't look more different.