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If glorious views and walking are for you, the Heddon Valley and Woody Bay offer some of the most unspoilt countryside and coastline you could wish for. Start at the Hunter’s Inn in the Heddon Valley and take a path along the river bank. Walk through ancient oaks before reaching cliffs and passing a track that leads to a Roman fort discovered in 1960.

This is beautiful hidden country where you are almost bound to find yourself alone with the woods and the distant seas. When you reach the shingle beach of Heddon’s Mouth you are in the centre of an area of outstanding natural beauty. The almost primeval air of the woodlands of the Heddon Valley is filled with birds, butterflies and other wildlife. On the beach is a restored 19th-century limekiln – in former times lime was burnt in many parts of the country to provide cheap fertilizer.

The Hangman Hills can be reached via nearby Combe Martin. A steep path leads into the heart of this wonderful countryside. Climb Little Hangman (just over 213m/700ft) then continue along the coastal path to Great Hangman (320m/1,050ft), the highest cliff in southern England.

SECRETS

While you’re there

Visit WATERSMEET near Lynton with its wonderful Edwardian tea shop and river walks. This is one of Britain’s deepest river gorges.

Secret place to stay

HUNTER’S INN, Parracombe (thehuntersinn.net). In the heart of the Heddon Valley, this is one of the most beautifully situated hotels in the country.

Woody Bay in all its summer glory.