Willingston Rock

The walk up to Willingston Rock is a proper slog if you're not prepared for it, but the payoff from the summit makes it worthwhile. You get genuine 360-degree views across Exeter and the surrounding countryside - the sort of vista that actually justifies the huffing and puffing on the way up.

It's a straightforward scramble rather than technical climbing. Most people tackle it as a half-day walk from Exeter itself, which sits just a few miles away. The rock itself isn't enormous, but it stands out enough that you'll spot it from the approach. On a clear day you can pick out landmarks for miles around - proper navigation practice if you're into that sort of thing.

Families with older kids will manage fine; younger ones might find the final push tedious. It's free, obviously - just turn up and walk. Allow a couple of hours return if you're taking your time and actually stopping to enjoy the views rather than racing to bag it.

If you're basing yourself at one of the nearby parks - Barley Meadow and Sunsets & Marshmallows are both close by - this makes an excellent morning mission before heading elsewhere. It's not a destination that'll eat your whole day, which means you've got time to explore more of Devon. The ground can be boggy in wet weather, so pick your moment.