Tavistock

The Friday market still draws crowds to Bedford Square, just as it has for over 900 years. Tavistock feels properly rooted in history - this ancient stannary town grew wealthy on tin and wool, and the handsome granite buildings along the main streets tell that story beautifully.

Walking through the town centre, you'll spot the Guildhall's Victorian grandeur and the ruins of Tavistock Abbey, dissolved by Henry VIII in 1539. The Pannier Market, housed in a lovely 19th-century building, buzzes with local traders most days. It's a working Devon town rather than a tourist trap, which gives it genuine character.

Dartmoor's wild landscape begins practically at Tavistock's doorstep. The moors stretch endlessly westward, dotted with Bronze Age stone circles and the skeletal remains of old tin mines like Bedford United Mine and Wheal Josiah. These industrial ruins make for fascinating exploring, though proper walking boots are essential on the rough terrain.

The Tavistock Canal winds through the countryside towards Morwellham Quay, following an old mining route. Bere Alston station connects to the scenic Tamar Valley Line, which rattles through some of Devon's most dramatic scenery to Plymouth.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Woodovis Holiday Park makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for supplies or a proper pub lunch, but positioned right on Dartmoor's edge for serious walking. Langstone Manor Holiday Park offers another good base, while the more adventurous might fancy Dartmoor Domes for something different.

The town sits about 20 minutes from Plymouth by car, making it surprisingly accessible despite feeling properly rural. That's Tavistock's appeal - ancient roots, dramatic moorland, but with decent transport links when you need them.