Crediton, a thriving community town
Just under ten miles from Exeter, Crediton is a community-minded town in the heart of Devon where you can get everything from a tasty coffee to a new bike. Have a wander round Crediton's great shops, including a bustling community bookshop and the Crediton Coffee Company where they roast the beans themselves. Let young ones burn off some steam at Planet Play or head to Shobrooke Park for some fresh air.
Relax on Exeter's cathedral green
Exeter is only ten minutes by train and it's an easy drive too. Exeter Cathedral is a stunning sight - step inside to admire the interior or relax on the cathedral green where you can inspect the outside's intricate carving. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum is free to enter and a very popular attraction, or have a walk round the winding streets for great independent shops plus all the mainstream labels. Seek out Gandy Street for lovely shops in a pretty setting.
Spot an elusive Dartmoor pony
The wild landscape of Dartmoor is around half an hour away by car. Visit Castle Drogo, run by the National Trust, or Finch Foundry - also run by the Trust, it's England's last working water-powered forge and there are talks throughout the day about its history plus a cottage garden where you can have a stroll afterwards. As for those ponies, they're a law unto themselves but try a walk at the dramatic Haytor and you may be lucky. Looking for accommodation Near Crediton? Travelodge Okehampton Whiddon Down's a good bet or try Travelodge Exeter M5 Hotel.