Bryn Gwyn

The walk up Bryn Gwyn from Aberystwyth is steep but quick - you're looking at maybe forty minutes if you push it, less if you're fit. The summit sits about 300 metres up, and on a clear day the views across Cardigan Bay are genuinely impressive. You can see right down the coast, and inland the Cambrian Mountains roll away in soft blue layers. On a damp Welsh afternoon, which let's be honest is most afternoons, the cloud can roll in fast and swallow the lot. Timing matters.

It's not a long haul, which makes it popular with families wanting a proper hill without committing their entire afternoon. Older kids will manage fine; very young ones might struggle with the gradient. Walkers heading out from Aberystwyth treat it as a warm-up before tackling longer routes in the Cardigan area, or as a standalone outing if the weather's threatening.

The mountain itself is bare moorland - no facilities at the top, so bring water and something to eat if you're settling in. Free to access, naturally. Early morning light here is worth the lie-in avoidance, though the afternoon can be busier with local walkers.

If you're based at Forester's Retreat Glamping or Aber Camping nearby, Bryn Gwyn works brilliantly as a half-day excursion before heading back for tea. The proximity to Aberystwyth means you're never far from a cafe or pub for a proper debrief.