Dew Pond

You won't find Dew Pond marked on every map, and that's rather the point. It sits up on the moorland above Lynton, a small, rather unassuming body of water that rewards a decent walk to reach it. The pond itself is lined with reeds and attracts all sorts of birdlife - bring binoculars if you're keen on that sort of thing, and honestly, you'll spot far more than you'd expect in such a modest spot.

The walk to get there is the real draw. You're traversing proper Devon moorland, the kind with heather underfoot and views that stretch down towards the coast if the weather's playing ball. It takes a solid hour or so from Lynton depending on your pace and which route you take. Not monumentally difficult, but it does require a degree of fitness and decent footwear.

Walkers will absolutely get the most from this - it's genuinely peaceful in a way coastal spots around here simply aren't. Families with youngsters might find the moorland trek a bit much, particularly in wet conditions when the paths become properly boggy. History buffs won't find much to chew on; this is about landscape and quiet, not heritage.

It's free, naturally, being open moorland. Time your visit for late spring or summer when the heather's out and you've got half a chance of a decent day. If you're staying at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat, you're ideally positioned to tackle this walk. Go early to dodge any drizzle and guarantee a bit of solitude.