Bideford

The muddy estuary of the River Torridge shapes everything here, with its twice-daily tides revealing sandbanks one moment and flooding the ancient quay the next. This working port town has proper character - fishing boats bob alongside pleasure craft, while the old stone bridge carries traffic between Devon and the wilder Atlantic coast beyond.

Bideford's long quay makes for a lovely stroll, especially when the North Devon Maritime Museum is open to tell tales of the town's seafaring past. The Time and Tide Bell down by the water chimes with each tide, a modern addition that locals either love or find slightly pretentious.

What really makes this spot special is the coast within striking distance. Instow Beach sits just across the water, reachable by a short ferry ride or drive around the estuary. The sand stretches for miles at low tide, backed by dunes and the Royal North Devon golf course. Further north, Northam Beach offers wilder surfing conditions, while Abbotsham Cliffs provide dramatic clifftop walks with views back across the bay.

The Tarka Trail runs right through town, following the old railway line towards Barnstaple or out to the coast. Cyclists and walkers share this traffic-free route, which passes through some lovely Devon countryside before hitting the sea air.

Reaching Bideford means navigating Devon's winding A roads - the A386 from Okehampton or the coastal route via Braunton both take their time. Barnstaple, eight miles inland, has the nearest railway station with connections to Exeter.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around this stretch of coast makes perfect sense. You're close enough for evening fish and chips by the quay, yet positioned for day trips along North Devon's spectacular shoreline.