Betchcott Hill

Climbing the bracken-covered slopes of this Shropshire peak, you'll find yourself working harder than expected for what turns out to be a rather modest reward. Betchcott Hill rises to a decent height west of Shrewsbury, but the summit views are largely obscured by woodland and scrubland - disappointing after the effort required to reach the top.

Walkers looking for a proper challenge will appreciate the steep ascent through mixed terrain, though the lack of clear paths means you'll need decent navigation skills and sturdy boots. The hill forms part of the rolling countryside that makes this corner of Shropshire so appealing, but honestly, there are better peaks nearby that offer far superior views for similar effort.

Families with young children should probably give this one a miss - the rough ground and unclear routes make it more suitable for experienced hikers who enjoy the satisfaction of bagging peaks regardless of the vistas on offer. Allow two to three hours for a round trip from the nearest parking.

If you're staying at one of the nearby campsites like Stoney Acres or Green Caravan Park, Betchcott Hill could slot into a walking holiday, but I'd recommend tackling some of the more rewarding hills in the area first. It's free to climb, naturally, but your time might be better spent elsewhere unless you're a completist collecting Shropshire summits.