Combe Hill

The walk up Combe Hill rewards you with one of Sussex's finest views across the Weald - if you don't mind a proper hike to get there. This isn't a gentle ramble; the climb from Pevensey is steep and takes real effort, but the 620-foot summit delivers the goods. On a clear day you're looking out over rolling farmland stretching inland, and the sense of elevation makes sense once you're up there.

It's very much a walkers' destination rather than a casual stroll spot. Budget a couple of hours for the full outing if you're starting from town, and bring proper boots - the paths get muddy. History buffs will appreciate that you're standing on land that's seen everything from Roman times through to the Norman Conquest; Pevensey Castle sits visible below, which adds another layer to the climb.

The hill works brilliantly as part of a wider South Downs walking itinerary rather than a standalone visit. If you're based at Warren Wood Country Park, only three miles away, you've got a solid half-day excursion that doesn't require transport. The park's right at the base of the Downs, so Combe Hill fits naturally into a park holiday without feeling tacked on.

Go in autumn or early spring when the ground's firmer and the light's better for photos. Summer crowds are manageable but the views get hazy with heat. Kids aged ten and up will manage the climb, though younger ones might struggle with the gradient. Free to visit, naturally - this is open countryside.