Lakehead Hill

The walk up Lakehead Hill is steep enough to make your calves complain, but from the top near Exeter you get proper views across Dartmoor that make it worthwhile. It's not some dramatic rockface - more a steady climb through moorland that opens up gradually as you gain height. The summit itself is modest, with nothing fancy at the top, but the panorama justifies the effort.

This works best for walkers who actually enjoy a bit of exertion rather than gentle strolls. If you're staying in or near Dartmoor National Park just down the road, it's an easy half-day addition to your itinerary. Families with young kids might find the ascent tedious unless they're the outdoorsy type - it's not a playground sort of outing. Allow an hour or so for the round trip depending on your pace and how long you fancy sitting about taking in the views.

The real appeal is the access to Dartmoor landscape without needing to commit to a full day's walking. Clear days are brilliant; misty ones turn it into a bit of a slog. Go midweek if you can and you'll likely have the hill to yourself. It's the kind of place that rewards effort without demanding serious mountaineering skills - decent boots and reasonable fitness get you there.