Beacon Hill Lower Car Park

The car park at Beacon Hill's lower entrance is less a destination and more a practical starting point - but it's a useful one if you're heading into Leicestershire's countryside. From here, you get proper access to Beacon Hill itself, the highest point in Charnwood Forest, and it beats searching for street parking near Leicester.

What you're really after is the walk. The lower car park puts you at the foot of the hill, so you've got a decent climb ahead - nothing brutal, but it's got some steep bits that'll test your calves. Twenty minutes up, and you're on top with views across the forest. On a clear day you can see proper distance from up there. The summit's got enough space to sit and eat a sandwich without feeling crowded, which is more than you can say for some peak-time spots.

Families with older kids will manage it fine. Younger ones might struggle with the gradient, and buggies are definitely not happening. Walkers will appreciate it as a quick proper walk rather than a stroll - allow an hour if you're taking it steady, including time at the top.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Bradgate Park is only three miles away, or Charnwood Acres if you want something smaller - this is an obvious half-day outing. Free parking, free access, and no faffing about with opening hours. It's straightforward stuff, but that's rather the point.