The Garden Gallery, North Buckland

Art in a working garden - that's the draw at The Garden Gallery near Woolacombe. It's a proper hybrid, neither quite gallery nor quite garden centre, but something in between that actually works. You'll find contemporary pieces dotted through the grounds alongside the plants and flowers, which means the walk between viewing rooms feels organic rather than corridor-like.

The space suits people who'd rather not spend three hours staring at white walls. Families with teenagers often get more from it than younger kids, who can get restless between the sculptures. There's something to look at constantly - a painting, a planter, a view across the garden - so it never feels like you're trudging around waiting for the next thing.

It's a short drive inland from Woolacombe's beaches, which makes it ideal as a half-day break from seaside weather. Hit it when the light's good if you can, usually late morning through early afternoon. The gardens themselves do the heavy lifting visually, so even if the current exhibition doesn't grab you, the grounds are worth the walk.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Woolacombe Sands or Golden Sands Touring Park, this works as an easy morning outing before lunch. Bring proper shoes - the paths can be muddy after rain, and it's more rambling than manicured. Worth allowing two hours if you're actually stopping to read the work.