The Flavel

The Flavel sits right in Paignton, a proper Victorian theatre that's been pulling in audiences since the 1880s. Walking in, you're hit with that lovely smell of old velvet and wood - the kind of theatre that's clearly been loved and maintained but hasn't been strip-mined of its character by some corporate refurb. The building itself is worth a look even if you're not catching a show; the ornate frontage and interior design capture what theatre-going actually meant in that era.

This is where you come if you fancy a bit of live entertainment - pantomime in winter, drama, comedy, music. The programme varies seasonally, so check ahead for what's on. It's not some vast impersonal barn; the Flavel has genuine intimacy, which makes shows feel more alive than in bigger venues.

You'll get the most from it if you're theatre-inclined rather than expecting kids' activity centres. It's a working theatre, not an attraction in the museum sense. That said, if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - South Bay's just 3.7 miles away, or Hoburne Devon Bay at 4.7 - an evening show here beats sitting around the holiday home.

Parked up for a fortnight? Paignton's seaside anyway, so you're looking at beaches and arcades during the day, and The Flavel slots in nicely for a proper night out. Check their website before you book your caravan to see what's on during your dates.