Although Devon doesn't have as much coastline as Cornwall, it still boasts some of the most beautiful and dramatic coastal scenery in the whole of the country. With more and more Brits considering spending their holiday in the UK this year, it is unsurprising that the county is preparing itself for a bigger influx of visitors than usual. Here is my href=http://www.classicguide.co.uk/devon-south.html>Devon Guide to the top five beaches.

5. Dawlish Warren.

A short train ride from Exeter and you get to the picturesque town of Dawlish. The nearby warren is essentially made up of a sand spit and blue flag beach that stretches over 505 acres into the mouth of the River Exe. This unique land feature has recently been officially named a nature reserve and is very popular with locals and tourists in the summer months. But for those who are willing to walk up the spit will be rewarded with an unspoiled, and crowd-free, beach.

4. Man Sands.

This tiny beach is very much one of the secrets of south Devon. The bay is only accessible by foot and so remains sparsely populated all year round - but is entirely worth the walk. It is situated just south of the popular tourist town of Brixham, in an area of Torbay that, unlike Torquay and Paignton, still retains some character and charm.

3. Bigbury and Bantham.

These beaches lie further south near the town of Kingsbridge, and are subsequently more popular with surfers and bathers. Their features include impressive sandy bays, tall dunes, rock pools, and great views across to Burgh Island. From Bigbury, it is possible to walk to the island at low tide, but at high tide the island (and hotel) is served by a one-of-a-kind sea tractor!

2. Saunton.

North Devon is not quite as accessible as the south coast, but this doesn't seem to affect its popularity. Saunton is not considered the best surfing beach, but it does offer one of the longest golden stretches in the county at almost 5 kilometres long. Behind the beach, Braunton burrows is the largest sand dune system in England, and is subsequently designated (amongst other things) a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

1. Putsborough.

This is essentially the quiet end of Woolacombe sands, away from the town. The surfing conditions are generally considered less powerful than neighbouring Croyde, and so are favourable for learner surfers. There are countless camping and caravan sites in the area, and the dramatic rolling cliffs of Baggy Point are also worth the walk round to Croyde village.