Capstone Hill

Perched above Ilfracombe's dramatic coastline, this modest peak delivers views that far exceed its humble 145-metre height. The climb from the town centre takes about 20 minutes up a well-marked path, though it's steep enough to get the heart pumping. Worth every step though - from the top you can see right across to Wales on clear days, with the Bristol Channel stretching endlessly below.

Families with older children will manage the ascent fine, but it's probably too much for little legs. Walkers get the best deal here, as Capstone Hill sits perfectly on the South West Coast Path, making it an ideal stopping point for longer hikes along this spectacular stretch of North Devon coastline.

The summit itself is fairly bare - just grass and gorse - but that's rather the point. Nothing blocks those sweeping panoramic views over Ilfracombe's Victorian terraces tumbling down to the harbour, or the rugged cliffs stretching towards Woolacombe Bay. Early morning visits beat the crowds, and the light's particularly lovely then.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Hele Valley Holiday Park or Sandaway Beach Holiday Park, this makes a proper good morning walk before hitting the beach. Budget an hour return from town, longer if you want to sit and properly take in those views.