Roman hill fort

The ramparts are still visible if you know where to look - a proper reminder that the Romans knew how to pick a defensive position. This hill fort sits on high ground outside Exeter, with earthwork defences that have survived nearly two thousand years of English weather and farming. You're looking at ditches and banks, mostly, along with the archaeological layers underneath that experts have spent time unpicking. The fort itself isn't dramatically restored or signposted like some sites, which means you get the landscape more or less as it was, which is either brilliant or a bit underwhelming depending on what you're after.

Walking enthusiasts get the most from this one. The views across Devon are strong enough to justify the ramble up, and if you're interested in Roman military strategy, the topography tells its own story - you can see why they'd want to control this spot. Families with young kids might find it a touch abstract; there's no visitor centre, no reconstructions, just the bones of the thing. Archaeology buffs will want to research what's been found here before visiting, because without that context it reads as lumpy fields.

It's free to access and you can visit year-round, though winter's muddy and summer's overgrown. Allow an hour or so for a proper look and walk. If you're staying at Woodland Springs Touring Park nearby, it's easily combined with exploring Exeter itself - the Roman city has a museum with finds from sites like this, which adds useful context to what you see on the ground.