Hen Tor

The walk up Hen Tor rewards you with one of Dartmoor's most striking granite peaks, and it's genuinely one of the better viewpoints across the moor. From Plymouth, it's an easy drive out towards the high ground, and the ascent itself takes maybe forty minutes depending on fitness.

What you get is proper moorland scenery - tors rising like broken teeth across the landscape, and on a clear day the views sweep across Devon and towards the coast. The summit's not huge, but it's high enough to feel exposed and wild. The granite formations themselves are dramatic, all weathered blocks and crevices, and there's something satisfying about scrambling up them.

Families with kids of eight or nine upwards will manage the walk fine. Anything younger and you're looking at carrying them for stretches, which rather defeats the purpose. Solo walkers and groups of friends absolutely thrive here - it's the kind of walk that lets your head clear properly.

Timing matters. Early morning beats the afternoon crowds, and sunset walks can be brilliant in summer. Don't underestimate the weather though - Dartmoor can turn grey and damp in minutes, so bring a waterproof even when it looks decent.

If you're staying at Dartmoor Domes nearby, this becomes an obvious half-day excursion. Combine it with the other high ground around the area for a proper walking day. Parking's typically roadside at the base, which keeps things simple and unrestricted.