Compton is in the South Hams and conveniently placed in the hinterland a few miles from the sea.

The village is largely known for its fortified Manor House, Compton Castle, previously owned by Sir Humphrey Gilbert, the Elizabethan sea captain and explorer who was half brother to Sir Walter Raleigh. The castle is now owned by The National Trust and can be viewed on a Monday, Wednesday or Thursday.

The local towns and beaches of Torbay - Torquay, Paignton and Brixham - are all within a short drive and offer all the fun of the seaside: from fishing off the pier to taking afternoon tea at The Grand Hotel in Torquay.

Equally close are the market towns of Totnes, Ashburton and Newton Abbot - Totnes' diverse collection of stalls occurs on a Friday and Saturday, in addition to the Elizabethan market on Tuesdays. The arts are well represented with Dartington College of Art in Totnes which has a full programme of events.

Drive half an hour to encounter the beauty of Dartmoor - whether that be on a trail or sauntering along the beautiful banks of the River Dart. Not forgetting Dartmouth of course, the jewel in the crown of the South Hams. A drive on the coastal road beyond this beautiful fishing town will take you to Blackpool Sands and Slapton, which has a bird sanctuary.

With a whole range of restaurants from old English pub to thoroughly modern and the cities of Exeter and Plymouth easily reached - we know that one visit to South Devon will not be enough.