The Rag

Climb to this rocky outcrop above Dawlish and you'll understand why locals call it The Rag - the jagged red sandstone formation does look rather like a torn piece of cloth fluttering against the sky. The viewpoint sits on the coastal path between Dawlish and Teignmouth, offering proper views across Lyme Bay on a clear day.

Walkers will appreciate this as a decent leg-stretcher, though it's a fair trudge up from Dawlish town centre. The path can be muddy after rain, so come prepared with decent boots. Once you're up there, the panorama takes in the Exe Estuary to the north and Start Point way off to the south.

Families with younger children might find the walk a bit much - it's steep in places and not buggy-friendly. But older kids who don't mind a climb will enjoy scrambling about the rocks. The geology here is fascinating if you're into that sort of thing, part of the same red sandstone that gives Dawlish its distinctive cliffs.

Allow about an hour for the round trip from town, longer if you want to linger and take photos. It's free to visit and accessible year-round, though autumn and winter offer the best visibility. If you're staying at one of the holiday parks near Dawlish like Cofton Holidays or Devon Cliffs, this makes for a good morning walk before the beach beckons.