St Thomas

The parish church sits on a rise above Ilfracombe's town centre, commanding views across the North Devon coast that alone justify the short walk up from the seafront. St Thomas isn't flashy - it's a solid, working Church of England parish with medieval bones and Victorian additions, the kind of place locals actually use rather than just visit.

Inside, there's genuine character. The nave's got decent proportions, and you'll find the usual mix of stained glass and memorial plaques - nothing that'll keep you transfixed for hours, but worth twenty minutes of your time if you're already in town. The churchyard offers a quiet sit-down spot with those coastal views, which beats another lap of the high street.

It's free to go in, obviously. Best for people who actually like churches rather than those ticking them off a list. History enthusiasts will appreciate the fabric; families might find it a bit static unless the kids are into grave-spotting. Allow half an hour if you're being thorough, fifteen minutes if you're not.

Stay at Sandaway Beach Holiday Park or Watermouth Valley Camping, both within easy reach, and St Thomas works as a gentle half-hour detour on a rainy afternoon - part of your wider Ilfracombe explorations rather than a destination in itself. Hele Valley Holiday Park is another decent base nearby if you're looking at the area more broadly.