The Mermaid's Purse

The Mermaid's Purse is a small independent gallery tucked into Bideford that punches well above its weight. You'll find contemporary art, craft, and design work - the kind of place where local makers sit alongside established names, and the owner clearly has an eye for what works. It's intimate rather than showy, which means you can actually have a proper look at things without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

This is squarely for people who care about art and design, or those looking for something different from the usual seaside gift shop fare. Half an hour is plenty if you're browsing; longer if you want to chat about pieces or happen to catch an artist in. Fair to say it won't hold younger children's attention for long, but teenagers with any creative leaning might find something worth talking about.

Bideford itself is worth an afternoon - the high street has character, and you're only metres from the water. If you're staying at Roeys Retreat Campsite, practically next door at under a mile away, you can pop in on your way into town. Coastal Cabins Glamping and Broad Park offer slightly more space if you're after a longer stay, and both are well-positioned for exploring this stretch of the North Devon coast.

Working hours and admission fees aren't clearly listed online, so ring ahead or check their social media - small galleries like this often keep eccentric hours. Worth the detour if you're in Bideford anyway; less worth timing a whole trip around.