Plymouth

Ancient tors rise like sleeping giants from the moor here, where Plymouth's suburban edge meets the raw wilderness of Dartmoor. This southeastern corner of Britain's most famous national park offers proper hiking country - all granite outcrops, Bronze Age remains, and sweeping views that stretch to the sea on clear days.

Eylesbarrow and Down Tor provide cracking walks for anyone wanting to stretch their legs, while history buffs will find plenty to poke about in. The Eylesbarrow Tin Mine tells the story of Devon's industrial past, and there's a proper sense of mystery around sites like the Standing Stone and Longstone Manor's medieval ruins. The Inscribed Boulder in the river is worth seeking out if you fancy a bit of archaeological detective work.

What makes this area special is how quickly you can escape the city. One moment you're in Plymouth's northern suburbs, the next you're tramping across moorland where Bronze Age folk left their mark in stone circles and ancient settlements. The Pillow Mounds and various mill remains scattered about remind you this landscape has been worked for centuries.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Plymouth's excellent transport links mean you can be on the moor within minutes of arriving by train or car. The A38 runs close by, making day trips from London perfectly doable.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks puts you right on Dartmoor's doorstep. Places like Langstone Manor Holiday Park offer a proper base for exploring, while the various glamping options mean you can wake up to moorland views without sacrificing home comforts. It's the ideal setup for anyone wanting to combine Plymouth's maritime attractions with serious countryside walking.