Oakcliff Holiday Park

Head for Exmoor, Exmouth, Dartmoor, the towns and cities of the south Devon coast, over borders into Dorset, Somerset and Cornwall for a wealth of Westcountry attractions – or just stick close to the sands and lounge on one of the many beaches abounding in the area. Family-friendly Dawlish Warren beach is worth at least a couple of days whether you’re a sun worshipper or wetsuit warrior: it stretches for miles and is crammed with activities for all tastes such as rides, amusements, mini and 18-hole golf and fizzing free events like fireworks displays and children’s entertainers (it’s lifeguarded all summer too). Nature spotters can nurture their passion all around Dawlish and the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, starting off at the acclaimed 500-acre Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve at the mouth of the River Exe to watch wildfowl, waders and other local critters; dolphins are often spotted along this shoreline too. There are miles of nature trails and walks in valley and on coast here, or take a steam trip from Dawlish Warren to see what’s spottable from the South Devon Railway along the River Exe. From Dawlish, make for Dartmoor to the Miniature Pony Centre has nature trails, pony treks and talks; there are miles of bridleways and bike paths on Dartmoor and in Exmoor National Park for more feet-friendly nature trailing. Or see critters up close at a Devon menagerie: Paignton Zoo, the National Marine Aquarium or Pennywell Farm are all good family options. Got little monkeys on board? Take them to swing among the trees at Go Ape in Exeter or whirl about the rides and zoo farm at Woodlands Family Theme Park.