The central night market of world heritage site Ayutthaya is a wonderful friendly place for all the family. Wander among the many steaming food stalls picking your dish from the bizarrely exotic (stir-fried frogs) to the ubiquitous and downright delicious (pad thai) then settle on a table by the river taking in the stunning views of some of the many lit up temple ruins that you may have walked around in the earlier searing heat. This is a calmer, easier and more atmospheric way to see them! You can catch a boat from here to take you around the 'island' to see many more ruins at night. If you have children with you (as I did) finish the night off (or use as a 'if you eat all your food bribe) letting them join the local kids with a crazy bounce on the popular inflatable slide - while allowing Mum a chance to shop in the many cheap clothes stalls.

www.thailandforvisitors.com/central/ayuthaya/oldcity.html

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On a weekend head to the Winking Prawn cafe on North Sands, Salcombe. It's right on the beach with great views rain or shine and a fantastic big breakfast buffet - served from 8.45 am for the early birds. We usually scrape in at 10.30 so it can be more like brunch ... There's even the chance to read the paper as the kids can busy themselves with the wonderful wacky selection in the dressing up box. Nicely full then head onto the sands for a game of footie, rockpooling, chasing waves, digging in the sand or whatever takes your fancy till you're too cold too cope. Next head to Overbecks National Trust property just up the hill. It's a remarkable and intriguing little Edwardian gem with enough for the kids to love too. Unfortunately the house is not open in the winter but the warm and yummy tea room is and after warming up there it's well worth exploring the exotic garden (it looks so tropical its almost enough to convince yourself it's not winter), with its hidden paths and many levels, stunning views across the estuary and even giant Jenga to play on the lawn.

The Winking Prawn Beach Cafe & BBQ
North Sands, Salcombe, Devon, TQ8 8LD
+44(0)1548 842 326
winkingprawn.co.uk/
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-overbecks
Google map: bit.ly/gh7lAQ

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