Younger visitors will love Exmoor Cottage, not just for its quaint appeal and their own loft bedroom, but for its appealing location in a stunning natural environment. The short walk to the local beach is just as exciting as the destination itself, along the gorge with the river rushing past the path. The fine shingle beach will keep little ones happy with a spade, and at low tide, a myriad rock pools await so make sure you pack your net and bucket to go crab hunting.

Lovely sandy stretches of beach can be found at both Woolacombe and Croyde Bay, where there are also opportunities for watersports, from surfing to paddle boarding. The unique Tunnels Beaches of Ilfracombe are intriguing for children. Make your way through the Victorian tunnels, carved through rock, to the beaches, where you will discover a unique tidal pool perfect for safe swimming and fantastic rockpools when the tide goes out. Adventurous youngsters may enjoy the chance to go sea kayaking, also available at Ilfracombe.

Nearby Glen Lyn Gorge will entrance younger guests with its other-worldly beauty of lush woodland and beautiful rocky pools. With its own hydro-electric power station, the gorge is a great place to learn about eco-friendly electricity. The on-site exhibition explains how it works and offers visitors the chance to blast a water cannon across the gorge and experience the power of the water for themselves.

A 25-minute drive will bring you to Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park, which offers hours of entertainment for children of all ages. The zoo is home to an exciting range of mammals including lions, meerkats and wolves as well as rainbow-coloured parrots and fascinating giant lizards. Younger ones who know their triceratops from their brontosaurus will love the animatronic dinosaur park and the vast indoor soft play area guarantees fun even on the wettest days.