Haldon Aerodrome Toposcope

Standing on what was once a proper working airfield, you'll find yourself at one of Devon's most underrated viewpoints. The toposcope - that circular metal disc with all the compass directions marked out - sits where planes once taxied, giving you a 360-degree guide to the landscape spread out below. On a clear day, the views stretch right across the Exe Valley towards Dartmoor's tors, with Exeter's cathedral spire poking up through the urban sprawl to the east. It's a proper panoramic feast that justifies the uphill slog to get here. The airfield history adds a bit of character too - you can still make out the old runway patterns if you know where to look. Families will love the space for kids to run about, though the toposcope itself won't hold their attention for more than ten minutes. Walkers tackling the longer Haldon Forest trails often use this as a halfway breather point. Getting here means a decent walk from the nearest car park, so allow at least an hour round trip if you're just coming for the views. Those staying at Lady's Mile Holiday Park or the other coastal spots around Dawlish will find it makes a lovely inland excursion when the beach gets too crowded.