Evergreen Hill

The walk up Evergreen Hill rewards you with proper views across the Devon coastline and countryside - the sort of vista that makes you understand why people live down here. It's not a massive undertaking from Sidmouth, and the climb itself is manageable rather than punishing, though the paths can get boggy after rain so decent boots are worth bringing.

What you're doing here is straightforward: walking to the top of a local hill. The views are the thing. On a clear day you can see right across to the coast and inland toward the Blackdowns. The hill itself is green and rolling, with the kind of peaceful feel that makes you forget you're so close to a town. It takes maybe an hour or so depending on your pace and where you start from.

History enthusiasts might get something from the landscape itself - this part of Devon has been worked and lived on for centuries - but if you're after dramatic ruins or a visitor centre, this isn't it. Families with younger kids could find it a bit of a slog, though older children who like a straightforward walk will be fine.

If you're basing yourself at one of the nearby parks - Ladram Bay or Cuckoo Down Farm are closest - Evergreen Hill makes a solid half-day outing. It's the sort of thing you do when you want fresh air and a bit of movement without needing to plan around opening hours or entrance fees. Just go when the weather's decent.