Shaftesbury Theatre

Standing on the seafront in Dawlish, this small community theatre punches well above its weight. The Shaftesbury Theatre might not look like much from the outside - a modest building squeezed between shops - but step inside and you'll find a proper little gem of a venue. The intimate auditorium seats around 100 people, making every performance feel personal and immediate.

Local amateur dramatic societies put on everything from pantomimes to serious dramas throughout the year. I caught a surprisingly good production of 'The 39 Steps' here that had the whole audience in stitches. The acoustics are excellent despite the compact size, and there isn't a bad seat in the house.

Families staying at nearby parks like Lady's Mile or Golden Sands will find this a lovely rainy-day alternative, especially if there's a children's show on. Check what's playing before you visit though - the programme varies wildly and some productions are definitely more adult-oriented.

The theatre works particularly well as an evening activity after a day on Dawlish's beach or exploring the town's famous black swans. It's a five-minute walk from the main shopping area and plenty of pubs nearby for a post-show drink. Ring ahead to check show times and book tickets - popular productions do sell out in this tiny venue.