Verity

Standing 67 feet tall on Ilfracombe harbour, this bronze sculpture by Damien Hirst divides opinion like few public artworks can. Half of the pregnant woman's body reveals anatomical detail - organs, foetus and all - while she holds a sword aloft. It's certainly not what you'd expect to find overlooking a Devon fishing port.

Families will have mixed reactions. Young children tend to be fascinated rather than shocked, though parents might find themselves fielding some tricky questions about what they're seeing. The sculpture sits right on the harbour edge, so there's no admission fee - you simply walk up and gawk.

Art lovers and those who appreciate bold contemporary work will find it properly thought-provoking. The contrast between Hirst's modern statement and Ilfracombe's traditional seaside setting creates genuine impact. Critics called it inappropriate when it arrived in 2012, but locals have largely warmed to their controversial resident.

Allow about 20 minutes unless you're really into photography - the harbour setting provides dramatic backdrops from multiple angles. Best light comes in early evening when the bronze catches the setting sun. It works well as part of an Ilfracombe day out, easily combined with the harbour area's cafes and shops. Several holiday parks like Hele Valley and Watermouth Valley put you within easy reach for a quick visit during your North Devon break.