Tolmen

You'll find yourself standing in front of a modest stone circle in the middle of Dartmoor - two upright slabs with a hole worn clean through between them. That's Tolmen, and it's considerably less impressive than the photos might suggest, but the walk to get there makes up for it. The hole itself was supposedly used in ancient fertility rituals, though locals will tell you the real magic happened here at night. Whether you believe that or not, the landscape around Exeter's moors has a particular kind of bleakness that gets under your skin.

Historically minded visitors will find more satisfaction here than casual tourists. This is the sort of place you visit because you're genuinely interested in Bronze Age ceremonial sites, not because you're after an afternoon's entertainment. Allow 45 minutes if you're doing the walk from nearby parking, less if you're fit. Bring proper boots - Dartmoor mud has a reputation for a reason.

The site sits well within reach of Woodland Springs Touring Park, three and a half miles away, making it a reasonable morning outing before heading back for lunch. It's the kind of stop that rewards research beforehand. Come prepared with knowledge about Dartmoor's archaeological landscape and you'll appreciate what you're looking at. Arrive expecting Instagram moments and you'll leave disappointed. Realistic expectations matter here.