Salcombe is situated on England’s south coast and is an Area od Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It is certainly not a budget destination. The shops in town are indicative of the gentrification that the area has been through in recent times. Jack Wills, Fat Face and various other overpriced clothes shops with a sporty-but-trendy image line the high-street intersected only by food shops selling organic produce or fancy sandwich shops. The result is a rather pretentious atmosphere as the majority of people in town seem to be peroxide blonde London kids clad in the latest in the sailing-chic, sipping Lattes in street-side cafes.

However, walk five minutes away from all this and one can see its attraction as a holiday destination. Firstly, there are the beaches. South sands, north sands, Mill Bay and a host of other beaches make up some of the best cared for beaches in Britain. The area is also a haven for sailors and surfers. Other water sports, such as waterskiing, are also available.

Then, there’s the Kingsbridge Estuary, a sunken estuary which provides one of the most unusual and beautiful views in the UK. The area’s footpaths are excellent and a walk along the cliff tops will provide you with some truly spectacular views. Particularly worthwhile is a walk to Tor Point. A trip across the bay to East Portelemouth is possible – there is a regular ferry service which provides plenty more possibilities for walking and for accessing secluded bays and beaches, only accessible by boat or foot.

For rainy days there is Overbecks, a Edwardian stately home and gardens with a lovely tea room. The town’s cheapest accommodation option is also situated here – run by the National Trust, the Youth Hostel costs £20 per night.

If you’re considering holidaying in England, consider Salcombe!