Lower Collard Farm

From the world’s largest cat (the Amur tiger) to the world’s largest rodent (the capybara), with quite a few other animals in between (among them, zebras, wallabies and cheetahs), you’ll see them all at Dartmoor Zoo (15 minutes’ drive). As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll also be able to admire exotic plants and dozens of species of camellias, plus rewilded areas that act as a magnet for insects and birds. For a change of scenery, spend a day checking out the harbour area in Plymouth (25 minutes). Here you can visit the National Marine Aquarium, the Royal Citadel and The Mayflower Museum, with a model of the ship that sailed to America in the 17th century. Then head to the clifftop Hoe Park for a rest with a view, or to Tinside Lido for a swim in the Art Deco pool. The halls of Cotehele (45 minutes), a National Trust-run property dating back to Tudor times, are filled with period furniture, tapestries and armour. The site also has large grounds with orchards, wildflower meadows and a lily pond. And last but not least: dogs are welcome here.