Tavistock

Ancient tors rise from windswept moorland like sleeping giants, their granite faces weathered by centuries of Devon rain. Tavistock sits at the edge of Dartmoor National Park, making it a proper launching pad for exploring some of England's most dramatic wilderness. The town itself has a workmanlike charm - market square bustle midweek, quieter come Sunday afternoon.

Great Mis Tor and Great Staple Tor dominate the skyline to the east, offering cracking views across the moors on clear days. These granite outcrops are just the start though. The landscape here tells stories of tin miners who once scraped a living from this harsh terrain. You'll spot remnants of their world everywhere: the Tinners' Hut near Roos Tor, ancient settlement ruins, and the mysterious Langstone Man standing stone that's older than anyone can properly remember.

Walking these moors takes commitment. Great Combe Tor and Lynch Tor reward the effort with panoramic views, but the weather can turn nasty without warning. That's Dartmoor for you - beautiful one minute, brutal the next. Conies Down Tor and Longtimber Tor offer gentler climbs if you're not feeling particularly heroic.

Tavistock connects easily to Plymouth by road, about 15 miles south. The A386 runs straight through town, making it dead simple to reach from the M5. Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around the area makes sense - places like Woodovis or Langstone Manor put you right on Dartmoor's doorstep without the hassle of driving into town each morning. Wake up to tor views instead of traffic noise. Much better deal.