Fullabrook Farm Retreat

Surfers will be keen to get right out onto the waves, and there are spectacular beaches at Saunton Sands, Croyde (both 25 minutes’ drive) and Woolacombe (20 minutes) where they can do just that. For less energetic days on the coast, try Putsborough beach (25 minutes) for strolls backed by cliffs, or have a potter in the rock pools at Barricane beach (20 minutes). If you’re into your hiking, you can access the South West Coast Path at Mortehoe (20 minutes), or the Tarka Trail at Crow Point (25 minutes), which also has spectacular views of the Taw river estuary. Looking east, Exmoor National Park (25 minutes) offers endless walking and cycling options, as well as the chance to spot wild ponies or take to four wheels and book onto a nature safari to see deer and birds of prey. Closer to base camp, there are gorgeous flower plantings to admire at Marwood Hill Gardens (five minutes), while Barnstaple (20 minutes) has a wonderful pannier market, where you can have a rummage for antiques and local produce from Tuesday to Saturday.