Dallington Hill

At 164 metres above sea level, this modest rise in the Northamptonshire landscape won't leave you gasping for breath, but the views across the rolling countryside are proper rewarding. Dallington Hill sits just northeast of Northampton and offers one of the county's better vantage points without the drama of a proper mountain hike.

Walkers will appreciate the gentle ascent through mixed woodland and open grassland. The hill forms part of the larger Dallington Forest area, so there are plenty of paths to explore if you fancy extending your ramble. On clear days, you can see right across to the Cotswolds on the horizon - not bad for somewhere so accessible from the M1.

Families with older children will find it manageable, though toddlers might struggle with the uneven terrain in places. Dog walkers love it here, and you'll often have the paths largely to yourself, especially midweek. Allow a good hour for the walk up and back, longer if you're planning to explore the surrounding woodland.

Staying at Billing Aquadrome or any of the nearby holiday parks around Northampton? This makes a lovely morning expedition before the kids demand more action-packed entertainment. The hill provides a nice contrast to the water sports and amusements at places like Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park, just under five miles away.