Colcombe Castle

A fortified manor rather than a proper castle, Colcombe sits quietly on the Devon-Dorset border near Seaton, looking more lived-in than dramatic. The sandstone walls date from the 14th century, though it's been so heavily modified over the years that you're seeing layers of different eras all at once - medieval foundations, Tudor additions, Victorian tinkering.

You can't get inside (it remains a private residence), but the exterior alone rewards a walk past. The setting is what makes it work - perched above a small valley with trees framing the approach. It's the sort of place that makes you understand why someone built here 700 years ago, rather than just pointing at a ruin and moving on.

This isn't a destination in itself. Better suited to walkers or history types doing the local footpaths who want to tick off a medieval building. You'll spend twenty minutes here maximum, which is fine if you're passing through. The nearest town, Seaton, is genuinely worth an afternoon - proper seaside charm without the corporate tat.

If you're based at Beer Head Holiday Park or Oakdown (the latter has excellent reviews), Colcombe makes a decent morning detour while exploring the wider area. The Jurassic Coast is close by. Just manage expectations - this is atmospheric rather than spectacular, and the private ownership means you're viewing from the outside only.