Scorhill Tor

Scorhill Tor sits on Dartmoor proper, a proper granite lump that rewards the walk up with views that stretch across the moor in all directions. You're looking at genuine moorland here - not the tame bits - with gorse, heather, and the kind of wind that reminds you why people used to fear wild places.

The walk itself is straightforward enough from the car park. It takes maybe thirty minutes to reach the summit, depending on fitness and how many times you stop to catch your breath. The tor itself isn't massive - you can scramble up the rocks in ten minutes once you're there - but the experience of being this exposed on Dartmoor makes it feel more significant than its actual height. On a clear day you can see for miles. On a grey day, which happens often, the moor feels genuinely atmospheric.

This suits walkers far more than families with small children. There's nothing to do at the top except stand around and admire the view. Teenagers with a bit of hillwalking experience will get something from it; younger kids will likely get bored waiting for adults to finish taking photos.

It's free to visit and open year-round, though winter conditions can be grim - mud, wind, and mist are the standard. Spring and autumn are cracking. You'll want proper walking boots and a waterproof. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it easy.

If you're based at Woodland Springs or Barley Meadow touring parks near Exeter, Scorhill makes for a proper morning out. It's isolated enough to feel like a genuine Dartmoor experience without requiring serious mountaineering skills.