Remains of a Matilda tank from World War II

Rusted metal emerges from the Devon coastline like a monument to folly - the skeletal remains of a Matilda tank that never made it to D-Day. This isn't your typical war memorial with polished plaques and visitor centres. Just the corroded hull of an infantry tank, stripped bare by decades of salt spray and Atlantic storms.

History buffs will appreciate the stark reminder of wartime preparations along this stretch of coast. The tank sits where it was abandoned after training exercises went wrong, a proper piece of military archaeology that speaks louder than most museums. Kids might find it less thrilling than expected - it's essentially a rusty shell with little context provided on site.

Getting there requires a decent walk along coastal paths, so pack proper footwear. The location near Croyde Bay makes it a worthwhile detour if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Ruda or Woolacombe Sands. Weather can be harsh here, so check conditions before setting out.

Twenty minutes is enough for most visitors unless you're particularly keen on wartime relics. It works well as part of a longer coastal walk rather than a destination in itself. The real draw is the wild setting - this piece of history feels genuinely forgotten, which somehow makes it more powerful than sanitised heritage sites.