Braunton

Surf culture meets traditional English village life in this curious corner of North Devon. Braunton sits just inland from some of Britain's finest surf beaches, creating an odd but appealing mix of farmers in muddy Land Rovers alongside bronzed surf instructors carrying longboards.

The village proper feels refreshingly normal compared to the coastal glamour nearby. There's a proper butcher, decent pubs, and locals who've lived here for generations. But drive ten minutes towards the coast and you'll hit the magnificent Croyde Sand Dunes - part of the Braunton Burrows UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Those dunes are extraordinary. They roll for miles, creating Britain's largest sand dune system and a landscape that feels more like the Sahara than Devon. The wildlife here is remarkable too - rare orchids, natterjack toads, and countless seabirds.

When the North Devon weather turns, Cascades offers indoor swimming with proper facilities. Not glamorous, but well-maintained and popular with families. For proper beach time, North Tail provides excellent surfing conditions and fewer crowds than neighbouring Woolacombe.

Getting here requires a car really - the nearest train station is Barnstaple, about twenty minutes away. But that isolation works in Braunton's favour. It's kept the tourist hordes at bay while remaining perfectly positioned for exploring North Devon's spectacular coastline.

Staying at Golden Sands Touring Park puts you right in the sweet spot. Close enough to walk to proper beaches, far enough from the madness of Woolacombe in summer. The park's 4.4-star rating from over 500 reviews suggests they're doing something right.