King John's Oak

The massive oak sprawls across the hillside near Seaton like something from a children's book - gnarled, ancient, and genuinely commanding. King John's Oak is more about the legend than the tree itself these days, given the centuries of wear, but the spot itself is rather lovely for views across the surrounding Devon countryside. Allegedly where King John once sat, though honestly the historical bits are hazy enough that you're largely here for the walk and the setting.

It's the sort of place walkers will appreciate far more than casual visitors. You'll need decent legs to reach it, and the reward is a quiet viewpoint rather than anything dramatic - moorland stretches, gentle rolling valleys, the kind of panorama that makes you understand why someone might have stopped here centuries back. Bring a picnic if you're making an afternoon of it. The walk itself is the real draw; the tree is the excuse.

Families with younger children might find it underwhelming if they're expecting something more interactive or visually striking. The tree's age works against it - it's weathered, fragmented, more skeleton than specimen. But if you're already exploring the Seaton area or staying at Beer Head Holiday Park down the way, it's a worthwhile detour. Go early morning or late afternoon when the light's softer and crowds are thinner. Free, obviously. Allow a couple of hours if you're walking the full route properly rather than driving straight to it.