Patteson's Cross

You'll find Patteson's Cross standing quietly in the Devon countryside near West Hill, a stark medieval stone marker that's been watching over these lanes for around six centuries. It's the sort of thing you could easily drive past without noticing, which is probably why it's survived this long without being trampled by Instagram tourists.

The cross itself is a proper bit of history - a sturdy stone monument with that weathered look that comes from centuries of Devon rain and wind. There's something rather moving about standing beside it, thinking about all the medieval travellers who would have passed this spot, using it as a waypoint when the roads were just muddy tracks. It's not grand or showy. It's just there, doing its job.

This one's for the history-minded walker rather than anyone expecting a visitor centre or facilities. You won't spend hours here - ten minutes to have a look and take some photos is probably the realistic expectation - but it works brilliantly as a stopping point on a countryside ramble around the East Devon area. The location makes sense: it would have marked an important crossing or meeting place, and you can still sense that importance in how it sits in the landscape.

If you're staying at Cuckoo Down Farm Glamping just down the road, it's absolutely worth adding to a morning walk. Admission is free, naturally, since there's nothing to admit to. Just park sensibly nearby and pay your respects to a proper piece of Devon heritage.