A small UK seaside town with golden sands and a late night ice cream parlour has been tipped as a go-to destination for families.

a village in North Devon, is a perfect coastal spot for families, couples and alike. Loved for its golden sands, world-class surfing, and breathtaking coastal walks, Croyde is quickly becoming a top contender for those looking to holiday closer to home this year.

Local business owner, Emma Carter, told the Mirror: "There’s just something about Croyde that makes you never want to leave. I think it’s down to the friendly, laid-back atmosphere you get in every shop or restaurant, and on a summer evening when things quiet down, nothing beats sitting outside with an ice cream from the local shop, listening to the waves. It’s just a special place that ends up feeling like home, even if you're only visiting for a few days."

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The village has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and many surfers flock to its renowned beach to hit its waves, all year round. As a result, the area offers plenty of schools, for those keen to enjoy the incredible waves but still learning the ropes of surfing.

Body-boarding is also hugely popular in Croyde. Essentially the little sibling of surfing, body-boarding allows individuals to enjoy the shore's shallow waves.

Hiking and cycling is also common in the area, as there are multiple trails to explore along the. Baggy Point is one picturesque spot, with panoramic views of the Atlantic and the opportunity to spot some rare and diverse wildlife that calls this area its home.

Tom Reynold, a local surfer and instructor, said: "Croyde has a way of getting under your skin in the best possible way. The surf here is unreal - arguably some of the best in the UK - but even if you’re not into surfing, there’s so much to love. The coastal walks are stunning, the beaches are pristine, and the whole place has this chilled-out, welcoming feel. Once people visit, they just keep coming back. It’s that kind of place."

For those wanting to explore slightly further afield or with little ones who easily get board, Croyde is well connected to many other attractions and destinations, including and The Big Sheep. If some retail therapy is desired, then the neighbouring larger towns of Barnstaple and Braunton offer the ideal place.

For foodies, the village has a surprising amount of options. There is the typical British pub The Old Thatch, a casual sports bar named Billy Budd's or more contemporary options such as Blue Groove or New Coast Kitchen, which are particularly loved brunch destinations.

Those with a sweet tooth won't be left out either as Croyde's Ice Cream Parlour, which is open between April and November and even into the evenings in the summer, offers an array of sweet treats.

Local resident, Ben Foster, added: "Croyde is one of those places that makes you feel miles away from everything, but you still have everything you need. You have great local food that, I believe, rivals that of London, cosy pubs that feel genuine (down to the farmers coming in for pints after harvests), local crafters and artists, and a proper community feel."

“Staycations have become more than just a passing trend,” says Mark Hutchins, travel expert at “Since 2004, search interest in 'staycations' in the UK has grown by an incredible 9,772 per cent, outgrowing interest in popular international hotspots like Bali, , Goa and even Spain. Turns out, Brits are becoming far more interested in what’s available on their doorstep than jet setting around the world.”