Cockington Gallery

The Cockington Gallery sits in one of Devon's most unexpected corners - a proper working village that feels frozen in time, just outside Torquay's sprawl. You'll find contemporary art and craft exhibitions in what's essentially a converted farm building, though the setting matters more than the walls themselves.

What you're really there for is the whole Cockington experience. The forge still operates - you can watch blacksmiths at work, which alone keeps children entertained for longer than you'd expect. Wander the cobbled lanes, pop into the tea room for a decent cream tea, and you'll understand why locals guard this place fiercely. The gallery itself rotates shows of local artists and makers, so it's worth checking what's on before you visit.

Give it two hours if you're serious, though many people spend half an afternoon here without rushing. Free to wander the village; the gallery admission varies depending on what's showing. Best on a weekday morning when tour coaches haven't descended.

If you're staying at Brownscombe or Parkdean nearby, this is an absolute no-brainer for a morning out. It breaks up the beach routine without feeling like a chore, and older kids who'd normally groan at 'another gallery' actually engage with the working forge. The whole setup feels authentic rather than curated for tourists, which is increasingly rare round here.