Bridgewater Monument

Standing on the ridge above Berkhamsted, this 32-metre stone tower commands views across the Chiltern Hills that justify the steep climb. Built in 1832 to commemorate the 1st Duke of Buckingham, it's one of those Victorian monuments that feels oddly heroic in the middle of nowhere - a proper folly that rewards effort with genuine outlook.

The monument sits on open grassland with a small car park at the base, though most people approach on foot from the surrounding bridleways. On a clear day you can see across three counties from the top, though the spiral stairs are narrow and bit of a squeeze. Takes about 20 minutes to walk from Berkhamsted town, longer if you're coming from the southern approach near Ashridge.

Walkers and history types will get the most out of it. Families with younger children find it reasonable but hardly gripping - there's nowhere to grab a bite, and the views alone won't keep them entertained for hours. What makes it worthwhile is combining the walk with the wider area. Chiltern Yurts (3.9 miles away) or Merlin Farm near Whipsnade (4.6 miles) give you good bases for tackling the ridge walks. The monument slots naturally into a morning ramble through proper Chiltern countryside.

Admission appears to be free, and there's no formal opening times - it's just there. Go in decent weather; on a grey day it's rather bleak. Worth a detour if you're already walking the area, but don't make a special trip from further afield.