Ilfracombe Viewpoint

The cliffs around Ilfracombe offer some proper dramatic coastal views, and the viewpoint here gives you the kind of vantage point that makes the drive worthwhile. You're looking out over the Bristol Channel with the North Devon coastline stretching away to either side - it's the sort of place where you suddenly understand why people bother with this corner of the country at all.

It's free to visit and takes about twenty minutes unless you're the type to stand about contemplating the sea for hours. The walk up isn't steep, which means families with younger kids won't spend the whole time listening to complaints. On a clear day you can see for miles; on a grey one it's a bit moody but still atmospheric in its own way. Walkers appreciate it as a natural stop on longer coastal rambles rather than a destination in itself.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Hele Valley is practically on the doorstep at 1.6 miles, or Golden Sands a bit further out - it's exactly the sort of quick morning excursion that breaks up a seaside holiday. Couples after a bracing walk with a view will find it does the job. History buffs won't find much here beyond the landscape itself, so it's really about the vista and the fresh air.

Best visited early morning or late afternoon when Ilfracombe itself isn't crawling with day-trippers. The light changes everything up here.