Dunkeswell, Honiton, Devon
Dunkeswell is one of those quiet Devon villages where everyone just goes about their business and nothing much happens from day to day, which is just how it ought to be when you choose to live the quiet life, tucked away in the Blackdown Hills. That's not to say there's nothing much going for Dunkeswell - the setting is wonderful, with miles and miles of glorious unspoilt countryside all around and some fantastic walks around the valley through open fields and ancient woodlands.
There are two things that Dunkeswell is well known for - one is the airfield where you can book a private flight, flying lessons or do a parachute jump, but if you're not feeling quite that brave or heights aren't quite your thing, it's nice to just sit in the Aviator Cafe and watch the comings and goings. The other thing is the abbey, or what's left of it; by the church a couple of miles from the main village are the ruins of a 13th century Cistercian monastery, a sister site to Forde Abbey over on the Somerset/Dorset border. Go and see it, tie it in with a walk and a picnic.
All information correct at the time of writing