Exeter

Red sandstone dominates the skyline here, with cathedral spires piercing above Georgian terraces that tumble down toward the Exe Estuary. This is Devon's historic county town, where Roman walls still stand and medieval streets weave between modern shopping centres and university buildings. The city proper feels lived-in rather than touristy, with proper pubs tucked into side streets and independent shops holding their own against chain stores.

Just beyond the city limits, the landscape opens up beautifully. Haldon Aerodrome Toposcope offers cracking views across the Channel and Exe Estuary, while Kenbury Wood provides decent walking through ancient woodland. Kenton Vineyard makes for a lovely afternoon out, particularly if you fancy sampling some local Devon wine. The area's aviation history runs deep too - you'll spot the old hangar for Haldon Aerodrome and remnants of Teignmouth Aerodrome scattered about the countryside.

Getting here couldn't be easier. Exeter sits bang on the M5 and has excellent rail links to London and the rest of the Southwest. The A38 sweeps you down from the motorway through rolling Devon countryside in minutes.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around Exeter's outskirts gives you the best of both worlds. You're close enough for easy cathedral visits and decent shopping, but far enough out to wake up to proper Devon countryside. Golden Sands Holiday Park and Devon Cliffs offer good bases near the coast, while Cofton Holidays puts you within striking distance of both moor and sea. It's a sensible choice for exploring this corner of Devon without the city centre parking hassles.