During the summer months life seems to revolve around the seafront, which comes alive to the sound of laughter and holiday fun.

Paignton's beaches are the best in the Torbay area. For those with young families, there's nothing finer than arming yourself with a bucket and spade and decamping there for the day.

Paignton's gently shelving sands, multi-coloured beach huts, backed by a broad swathe of lawn and general flatness, make it ideal for young families.

But there is also another hidden side to this distinctive seaside town, which can be found in the noble elegance of Oldway Mansion...

...a magnificent Versailles clone built by Isaac 'Mr Sewing Machine' Singer. (see portrait below)