Ben Knowle Hill

Rolling fields give way to heather and bracken as you climb this modest Somerset summit just outside Wells. At 308 metres, Ben Knowle Hill won't test serious fell walkers, but the panoramic views from the top are properly rewarding - on clear days you can spot the towers of Wells Cathedral to the east and the Mendip plateau stretching west toward Cheddar. The walk up takes about 45 minutes from the nearest lane, following well-trodden sheep paths through rough pasture. Families with older children will manage it fine, though toddlers might struggle with the tussocky grass higher up. What makes this hill special is the sense of space - you're genuinely away from roads and houses once you reach the ridge. The descent offers lovely views back toward the cathedral city, making it a cracking half-day walk if you're staying at one of the nearby sites like Wells Touring Park or Bucklegrove Holiday Park. Early morning is best before the heat builds up, and avoid after heavy rain when the paths can get boggy. It's free to roam, naturally, and you'll likely have the summit to yourself - most visitors to this part of Somerset stick to Cheddar Gorge and miss this quieter gem entirely.