Holidays in Devon

Hi everyone.
For many years we have holidayed regularly in the South Hams area of Devon, an area we enjoy and have happy memories of.
However, we now fancy a change and wonder if anybody has recommendations for places/things to do on the north Devon coast.
We would be renting a cottage/apartment for a week next May and enjoy visiting gardens, stately homes and suchlike together with walks on relatively accessible beaches.
Thanks in advance.