Kick back in Kingsbridge and enjoy the laidback loveliness of this pretty, traditional market town in South Devon. Nestled on the edge of the Kingsbridge Estuary and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with lush rolling countryside all around, this is a great spot for enjoying a luxury holiday. Acquaint yourself with its cobbled streets and fall in love with its quixotic appeal, keeping a look out for the Shambles and Squeezebelly Alley. Naturally popular and utterly charming yet refreshingly unassuming, it is sure to secure a place in your heart. 

Venturing outside of the town, adventures await in abundance. Awaken the senses with some coasteering or opt for a leisurely afternoon paddle boarding or kayaking on the water. Sat on the estuary, there are plenty of water-based activities for you to enjoy – to be really romantic, you can even sail around and moor up before arriving at your luxury accommodation. If you have your four-legged friend with you, pick up one of the many countryside trails before pulling up a pew at one of the town’s dog-friendly eateries and warming up with some hearty grub.

If you happen to be staying on either the first or third Saturday of the month, make sure you visit the celebrated Kingsbridge Farmers’ Market to pick up some goodies to take back to your luxury self-catering retreat. Overflowing with fresh, local meat, fruit and vegetables, cheeses and freshly-baked goods, you will have a wonderful time selecting your favourite goodies to enjoy on a picnic or from the comforts of your new favourite home from home. 

If eating out is more your thing, the Beach House in South Milton Sands offers an unfussy, informal dining experience in a truly beautiful setting. Elsewhere, Riverford Organic Farmers (famed for their organic food box deliveries and popular deli) have opened the Riverford Field Kitchen near Buckfastleigh and offer hearty, organic seasonal fare – definitely worth a visit or two! For something a bit special head to the Seahorse in Dartmouth – a fabulous fish restaurant owned by Mitch Tonks.

Whether you fancy a tipple or an afternoon tea, there’s plenty of choice in and around Kingsbridge. The Crabshell Inn in Kingsbridge, nestled on the estuary, has beautiful views and is especially lovely for an evening drink as the last of the day’s sun throws its rays over the water in a final golden hurrah. For a mid-walk stop off, head to the Gara Rock Café which is part of a circular walk from Mill Bay in East Portlemouth around the coast to Gara Rock. 

If you are an ale fan, the Pigs Nose Inn in the village of East Prawle is really popular for its super quirky interiors and range of cask ales, including those from local producer South Hams Brewery. For something a little different head to Staverton Bridge Nursery for an excellent afternoon tea – and you might pick up a plant or two whilst you’re there. If you still can’t decide, Stokeley Café and Valley View Café are also worth your consideration, both exuding homely vibes. 

South Devon has some truly lovely beaches and Kingsbridge is perfectly located to explore them. Bantham is just a 10-minute drive away and is fabulous for surfing, whilst you’ll find many others from Mothecome and Bigbury to the south to Slapton and Blackpool Sands towards Dartmouth. Of course, the South West Coastal Path runs along here too so there are some fantastic coastal walks. The estuary is a nature-lovers’ delight with plenty of bird and aquatic life to be seen. Watch out for otters, dolphins, seals, wading birds and even basking sharks. If you like to be on the water, take to a kayak or boat to explore. Inland is stunning too – being a designated Area of Outstanding Beauty the countryside is very beautiful – perfect for walking or horse riding.