St Raphael's Chapel

The tiny stone chapel sits alone on the moor just outside Tavistock, commanding a view that feels properly remote despite being minutes from civilisation. St Raphael's is modest - we're talking a small, whitewashed building that looks like it's been holding its own against Devon's weather for centuries. The interior is simple, intimate almost, with just enough space to remind you why people still walk out here to sit quietly.

This is a spot for walkers and anyone who appreciates the stark beauty of Dartmoor without needing a cafe attached. The chapel works best as part of a longer ramble rather than a destination in itself - an hour's worth of a morning at most. It's the kind of place that rewards you for making the effort to find it, especially if you're already exploring Dartmoor National Park just down the road.

Getting there means leaving the car behind and walking through actual moorland, which is half the appeal. Kids might find the walk tedious unless they're the adventurous type, but walkers will appreciate the isolation and the way the landscape opens up around you. The lack of crowds is what makes it work - you won't find tour groups here.

Combine it with time in Dartmoor National Park nearby for a proper day out. The chapel feels like a genuine piece of Devon history rather than something polished for visitors, and that's exactly why it's worth the detour.