With its elegant pier, Poet’s Walk along the cliffs, outdoor pool and clutch of independent shops, Clevedon in Somerset has plenty of charms. The bonus for Cotswolds residents is that it’s not too far away either!

For a seaside lover, the Cotswolds isn’t an obvious choice to set up camp. I’m constantly planning trips to the coast. Sometimes they’re met with enthusiasm by my chap and other times there’s a hint about him of a dog being dragged out on a walk in the rain.

He just doesn’t want to travel too far and who can blame him? When you’ve been slaving away in the office all week or you’re staring down the barrel of a hellishly long commute, the last thing you want to do is sit in the car for hours.

So, for us just outside of Cheltenham, Clevedon is a kind of day trip compromise. I’ve got nothing against its bigger brother Weston-super-Mare, just further down the M5, but I think we all know it’s less refined.

I’ve had great days and nights there - it’s a lot of fun. But, for me, the more gentile and refined Clevedon is a delightful way to spend the day.

The Victorian pier is picture perfect, the views quite lovely and that wonderful salty sea air, tangles your hair and carries your worries far out to sea.

Poet’s Walk along the cliff edge is simply beautiful and teamed with a bite to eat at seafront favourite Cafe No 5 - you have the makings of a really great day out.