Woolacombe

Three miles of golden sand stretch between dramatic headlands, making this one of Devon's most spectacular coastal spots. The beach here regularly tops those tedious 'Britain's best' lists, and for once they're not wrong - when the Atlantic swells roll in, surfers flock from across the Southwest. Even on grey days, the sweep of sand feels magnificent.

Woolacombe village itself is refreshingly low-key. A handful of surf shops, tea rooms and pubs line the main street, but it never feels overwhelmed by tourism. The real action happens on the beach, where families claim their spots early and surfers check the waves from the clifftop car park.

Mortehoe sits just a mile north, a proper Devon village with thatched cottages and coastal paths that'll have you reaching for your camera. The South West Coast Path runs right through here, offering some cracking clifftop walking with views across to Lundy Island on clear days. Baggy Point juts into the Atlantic beyond Croyde, another surfing hotspot that's worth the short drive.

Getting here takes a bit of commitment. The nearest train station is Barnstaple, about 14 miles inland, then it's a winding bus journey through North Devon's lanes. Most visitors drive, following the A361 through Barnstaple then the B3343 to the coast - it's scenic but slow going in summer.

Staying at Golden Sands Touring Park makes perfect sense if you want to explore properly. You're close enough to walk to the beach but far enough from the day-tripper crowds. Plus, having your own wheels sorted means you can easily hop between Woolacombe, Croyde and the quieter coves that dot this stretch of the Heritage Coast.