In the County famed for cider and English cream teas stands the City of Exeter, set in beautiful verdant countryside, with picturesque villages, historic churches, and quaint old inns, it is one of Britain’s oldest cities. The Medieval Cathedral is England’s finest example of decorated Gothic architecture and visitors can explore the historic past by walking in the footsteps of Drake and Raleigh through the narrow, partly Tudor lanes. It is a great place for shopaholics and a lively place for the arts with theatres and art galleries.

Powderham Castle, in a beautiful setting beside the River Exe and The National Trust Killerton Estate are both nearby. The infrequently visited Blackdown Hills along with the coastal towns of Budleigh Salterton, Seaton and Sidmouth, with its world famous folk festival are all a breath of fresh air.

The rich and varied small town of Topsham is much savoured by those who visit, and offers pleasant river walks, a Saturday morning market, a heated outdoor pool, quality, character shops and plenty of quiet space to sit and watch the bird life or sailing boats go by. This is a super place to visit, not just for the scenery and shops, but also for those who enjoy good food, whether you want gourmet fare, a cream tea or just a great meal with your pint as there are two award-winning restaurants, numerous good pubs and tea-shops. The popular Dart’s Farm shopping centre is at the edge of the village or take the “Topsham to Turf” boat trip to enjoy a pint at this out of the way pub and meander along The Goat Walk beside the river.

Farway, set in an area renowned for its outstanding natural beauty is within easy reach of some lovely beaches at Beer and Branscombe and also Farway Countryside Park situated at Colyton with breathtaking views, a woodland nature trail and lots of animals including a “nursery” or enjoy pony rides and even pig and ferret racing.

East Devon Attractions:

Bicton Park – Budleigh Salterton: 60 acres of botanical gardens with museum, kids play area, nature trail and train. 01395 568465

Quad World - Cullompton: All terrain off-road motor sports – family fun and excitement. 01392 881313

Crealy – Nr Exeter: Devon’s Family Attraction of the Year with go kart racing, bumper boats, steep and scary slides, the River Raider, trains and ponies. 01392 233200.

Killerton – Nr Exeter: 18th Century house set in a magnificent 6,400 acre estate. 01392 881345.

Powderham Castle – Nr Exeter: Medieval fortress set in an ancient deer park with lavish interiors, gardens and grounds. 01626 890243. castle@powderham.co.uk

River Exe Cruises and Fishing Trips – Topsham and Exmouth: Cruises up and down the River Exe between Exmouth and Topsham. Fishing trips from Exmouth seafront. 01392 222144.

Branscombe National Trust Bakery, working forge and water-powered mill in famously picturesque East Devon village. 01297 680481

Beer Quarry Caves - Beer: Guided tours of the vast complex of underground caverns created by centuries of quarrying the famous Beer Stone. 01297 680282.