Grippers Hill

The walk up Grippers Hill from South Brent takes about forty minutes if you're moving at a steady pace, and the effort pays off properly. You're looking at moorland views across Devon that stretch for miles on a clear day - the kind of views that remind you why people bother with hills at all. The summit itself is modest, no dramatic peak or stone marker, just open ground where the wind picks up and you can see exactly how rural this corner of Devon actually is.

It's a straightforward walk rather than a scramble, so families with older kids manage it fine. The moorland terrain means it's exposed though - bring weather-appropriate kit because the conditions change fast up here. Allow two to three hours if you're taking it easy and want to sit about at the top.

This works well as part of a longer day exploring Dartmoor's edges. South Brent is the logical base, and if you're staying at Ashbourne Woods just down the road, you've got easy access to the trailhead. The holiday park sits only 3.7 miles away, so it's genuinely convenient rather than a major expedition from your accommodation.

Grippers Hill suits walkers over peak-baggers - there's nothing showy about it, but the walk itself is pleasant and the views from the top justify the climb. Go on a decent weather day though. Attempting this in low cloud or heavy rain strips away most of the appeal.