Branscombe

Branscombe is a thatched village in an East Devon valley running down to a pebble beach on the Jurassic Coast, where the National Trust cares for farmland, cliffs and three working buildings: the forge, believed to be the oldest in Devon; Manor Mill, a restored watermill that ground corn from 1700 until 1939; and the Old Bakery, Devon's last traditional bakehouse until 1987, now a tea-room with an orchard. The anchor of the MSC Napoli, grounded in 2007, stands on the beach, where the Trust asks visitors to keep away from the cliffs after recent falls. Dogs under close control are welcome across the countryside, on leads in the orchard and beach. Three Trust trails start at its car park: the 1-mile historic walk, the 2.5-mile village walk and the 6-mile coastal walk to Beer. Reviewers praise the Old Bakery's bread, the level path to the sea and the views on the steep climb towards Beer. Tips from visitors: the six-space Trust car park fills quickly, so park behind the village hall with a donation in the well, and expect narrow lanes.