Bell Hill Recreation Ground

The walk up Bell Hill from Petersfield is genuinely steep - worth knowing before you drag the kids up - but the views across Hampshire once you crest it are the real draw here. This is proper downland, open grassland rolling away toward the South Downs, and on a clear day you can see for miles. The reserve itself isn't massive, so don't expect a full day's rambling, but it's brilliant for an hour or so if you're after fresh air and space to breathe.

It's the sort of place walkers and nature types will appreciate more than families with toddlers, though teenagers tend to quite like the bit of exertion. The grassland supports the usual downland flowers and butterflies in summer - nothing rare that'll set your heart racing, but pleasant enough if you pay attention. Spring's when it's at its best, before the heat flattens everything.

Free to wander, no facilities to speak of, so bring water. Allow ninety minutes if you're taking your time and actually looking at things rather than just charging up and back down. If you're based at Adhurst Yurts nearby - which is genuinely lovely if you've got the budget for it - Bell Hill makes a decent morning outing before heading back for lunch. Cedar Valley's a bit further out but Bell Hill still fits nicely into a longer park holiday in the area. Go midweek if you can; weekends pull a fair crowd for such a small spot.