Fernworthy Circle

Bronze Age stone circles aren't exactly thick on the ground in Devon, so Fernworthy Circle is worth the drive out from Exeter if you're into archaeology or just fancy a proper walk through moorland. You'll find thirty or so standing stones arranged in a rough circle on Dartmoor, surrounded by forestry that actually adds something rather than detracts - the trees frame the stones nicely and give you shelter if the weather turns typical Devonian.

It's free to wander around, which is the only way it should be. The site itself takes about twenty minutes to explore properly, though you could easily spend longer wandering the surrounding paths. There's a bronze age cairn at the centre that's been excavated, so you get the sense someone actually knows what they're looking at here rather than it being left to your imagination entirely.

Historically minded adults will find it genuinely interesting, walkers will appreciate the moorland setting and the network of trails nearby, and families with kids who can manage a decent trek will get something out of it. Younger children might find twenty minutes of standing stones a bit thin though.

Timing-wise, spring and autumn are best - summer brings the midges and winter can leave the moorland access dodgy. The nearest proper base would be Woodland Springs Touring Park over near Okehampton way, which puts you within striking distance of this and the rest of Dartmoor's archaeology. Well worth bundling into a broader moorland day rather than making a solo trip.