Holdstone Down

The walk up Holdstone Down rewards you with proper Devon views - rolling farmland stretching down towards Ilfracombe and the coast beyond. It's the kind of spot locals know and visitors miss, which means you won't be jostling for space at the summit. The hill itself isn't dramatic, but the walk there takes you through decent countryside, past stone walls and the occasional farm gate. Allow a good hour there and back from Ilfracombe if you're a leisurely walker, less if you're keen.

This works best for people who like their landmarks on foot rather than served up in a visitor centre. Families with older kids will manage it fine; small ones might find the climb tedious. History buffs won't find plaques or heritage signs - it's just a working bit of North Devon landscape, which is rather the point.

The real draw is plotting your route back towards Ilfracombe and the cluster of parks dotted around - Longlands Devon is barely 1.7 miles away, or Newberry Valley if you want something with more facilities. It's the kind of walk you'd do in an afternoon break from base camp, not a destination trip on its own. Go on a clear day or don't bother; cloud rolls in quick here and you'll be staring at grey nothing. Best tackled early morning before the wind picks up off the coast.