South Brent

The train whistle echoes across the valley as the South Devon Railway chugs through this proper Devon market town. South Brent sits in a sweet spot between Dartmoor's granite tors and the South Devon coast - close enough to both for day trips, far enough from tourist crowds to keep its authentic character.

Woodleigh Wood offers brilliant walks just minutes from the town centre, while the surrounding hills like Hood Ball and Ball Hill provide cracking views across the moor. It's not the most exciting place after dark, mind you, but that's rather the point.

The South Devon Railway is the real draw here. This heritage line runs from nearby Buckfastleigh through Staverton station, offering steam train journeys that kids absolutely love. The Ariel Centre brings occasional theatre productions to town, though you'll find more cultural offerings in nearby Totnes.

For a proper pint, the New Lion Brewery And Taproom serves local ales that beat most chain pub offerings hands down. The town itself is quiet midweek - perfect if you're after a peaceful base rather than nightlife.

Getting here couldn't be easier from the A38, making it well placed for exploring both Dartmoor National Park and the coastal towns of Paignton or Salcombe. A fifteen-minute drive gets you to Buckfastleigh Abbey, while the moor's most dramatic tors are barely twenty minutes away.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're positioned brilliantly for day trips across South Devon while avoiding the premium prices of coastal resorts. The surrounding countryside offers endless walking routes, and you can easily reach both Plymouth and Exeter within the hour.