Bideford

Maritime history runs deep through these winding streets where the River Torridge meets the sea. Bideford sits pretty on North Devon's coast, a proper working port that's managed to keep its character despite the tourist trail that brings visitors through on their way to Clovelly.

The long bridge spanning the Torridge is the town's signature sight - thirteen arches of medieval stone that's been patched and rebuilt more times than anyone can count. From here, you can watch the tide rush in and out, bringing boats back to the quay where they've been mooring for centuries.

Wandering inland from the town centre, you'll find yourself among some of Devon's finest woodland. Wallend Wood and The Hobby offer cracking walks where you can properly stretch your legs, while Bucks Wood extends down towards the coast. All Hallows' Church sits quietly in the town centre, worth a look for its Norman origins.

Bucks Mills Beach lies a short drive north - a proper pebble beach that's never too crowded, even in summer. The coastal path here gives you sweeping views across to Lundy Island on a clear day.

Getting here is straightforward enough - the A39 Atlantic Highway runs right through town, connecting Bideford to Barnstaple (eight miles east) and on towards Cornwall. The railway closed decades ago, so it's car or bus these days.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around the area makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into Bideford for supplies or a pub lunch, but far enough out to enjoy the peace of Devon's countryside. Wooda Farm Holiday Park and Braddicks Holiday Park both put you within easy reach of the coast path and those woodland walks.