Dinas Rock

The walk up to Dinas Rock takes about twenty minutes from the car park near Neath, and it's steep enough that you'll feel it in your calves. What you get for that effort is a proper Iron Age fort sitting 300 metres up on a sandstone ridge, with views across the Neath Valley that make the huff and puff worthwhile. The earthworks are still obvious - you can trace the defensive ditches and banks quite clearly, which gives you a real sense of how the ancient Britons positioned themselves here.

History enthusiasts will get the most from a visit, particularly if you've got decent weather for picking out the landscape features and understanding the strategic thinking. It's not exactly a tourist trap with information boards and visitor centres - just you, the wind, and a lot of uninterrupted scenery. Kids might find it a bit sparse if they're expecting facilities, though the scramble up appeals to those who like a proper adventure rather than a gentle stroll.

Allow a couple of hours for the full experience with time to sit and take it in. It's free, naturally. If you're camping at Four Falls Glamping or Willow Springs Campsite nearby, this makes an excellent morning outing before heading elsewhere. Pair it with other local walks in the Neath area - there's plenty of valley scenery to explore without driving far.