The Salcombe Lifeboat Park

The Salcombe Lifeboat Park sits right on the water's edge, giving you a proper view of the estuary and the boats coming and going. It's a small nature reserve rather than a sprawling country park - think peaceful rather than packed with attractions. You'll find walking trails that wind through coastal scrub and grassland, with benches positioned to catch the views across the water and towards Kingsbridge. The lifeboat station itself is the focal point, and there's something genuinely interesting about watching the crew train or spotting the boat heading out on exercise runs.

Walkers get the most from this spot. It's not taxing terrain, just gentle paths that take thirty minutes to an hour depending on how many stops you make for photographs. Families with young kids won't find it thrilling for hours on end - the novelty of the lifeboat station wears off fairly quickly unless there's proper action happening. Birdwatchers and nature types will appreciate the estuary setting and the chance to spot oystercatchers and egrets.

You're free to wander here and there's no charge for the privilege. It works perfectly as a morning or late afternoon walk during a longer stay at one of the nearby camping spots - Wilton Farm Camping South Devon is barely two miles away. Pop down from Kingsbridge when the light's good, spend ninety minutes on the trails, then head back for a proper pub dinner. Don't expect facilities or cafes - bring water and pack a sandwich if you're making an afternoon of it.