Tors End

The walk up to Tors End rewards you with views across Dartmoor that stretch for miles on a clear day. It's not a difficult climb from the Exeter side, though the moorland path can get boggy after rain, so proper boots matter. You're looking at maybe 45 minutes to an hour depending on your pace and how many times you stop to catch your breath or take photos.

This is walker territory, full stop. The summit itself is modest - bare moorland rather than dramatic rock formation - but that's rather the point. You come for the perspective, the space, the chance to actually hear yourself think. Families with young kids might find the walk a bit much if the little ones aren't keen hikers, and there's nothing to do once you're up there except enjoy the air and the view back toward Exeter.

Timing matters. Go midweek in autumn or spring and you could have the place almost to yourself. Summer weekends can get busier as day-trippers filter out from the city. First light is stunning if you can manage it.

Woodland Springs Touring Park sits about five miles away near Exeter, making it a sensible base if you're planning a few days exploring Dartmoor. Tors End works as a half-day excursion - park up, walk, grab lunch back in town. It's not a destination that demands hours of your time, but it's well worth the leg work if you're already in the area and the weather's on your side.