Nattadon Hill fort

The ramparts of Nattadon Hill fort rise abruptly from the Devon countryside about three miles south of Exeter, a proper Iron Age stronghold that's managed to stay relatively quiet despite its commanding position. You're looking at defensive ditches and earth banks that still hold their shape after two thousand years, arranged in that distinctive promontory fort style where the landscape itself does half the defensive work for you.

It's not a reconstructed settlement or a visitor centre with interpretive panels - this is the real thing, just grass and archaeology. The walk up takes twenty minutes from the nearest road, and it's moderately steep in places, so not ideal for young children or anyone after a gentle stroll. But if you're the sort who finds genuine satisfaction in standing where Iron Age Devonians once stood watch, it's absolutely worth your effort. The views back towards Exeter are decent enough, and you can trace the fort's defensive strategy just by looking at how it sits in the landscape.

Historians and archaeology enthusiasts will get far more from this than casual visitors. Bring proper footwear - the ground's uneven and can be muddy. Access is free, and you can visit anytime, though early morning or late afternoon tends to offer better light and fewer people.

Stay at Barley Meadow Touring Park, rated five stars and just four miles away, and you've got a solid base for exploring this part of Devon. Woodland Springs is closer at under three miles if you want somewhere equally convenient.