Braddon Tor

You're looking at granite rock sticking up from Dartmoor like someone left it behind on purpose. Braddon Tor, near Tavistock, isn't much to write home about height-wise, but the views back across the moor more than make up for it. The walk itself is straightforward - moorland paths, proper Devon weather when the clouds roll in, and the kind of quiet you don't get anywhere else.

This is walker territory, full stop. Not a family attraction with ice creams and gift shops. You'll spend maybe 45 minutes getting up here from the nearest parking, another 20 minutes at the top if you're taking photos and soaking it in, then back down again. The rock itself offers decent scrambling for anyone with a head for heights, though nothing technical. Kids will either love it or complain the whole way - depends entirely on whether they're the outdoor sort.

Since Dartmoor National Park sits practically on your doorstep at just over two miles away, you could couple this with a proper day out on the moor. Do Braddon Tor in the morning, then tackle something bigger later. Spring and early autumn are your best bets - summer brings the crowds and midges, winter can turn the paths into boot-sucking mud. Free to visit, naturally. Bring water and a map though - the moor doesn't suffer fools lightly, even on familiar routes.