Domen Fawr

The walk up to Domen Fawr is steeper than you'd expect for what amounts to a grassy mound in the middle of Powys moorland. There's a real payoff though - you're standing on a Norman motte, the earthwork foundations of a medieval castle that's been here since the 12th century. It's a proper archaeological site, not dressed up or interpreted beyond what the landscape itself tells you.

From the top, the views across Mid Wales open up properly. You can see why someone planted a castle here - command of the valley, good sightlines. The mound itself is substantial enough that kids won't lose interest immediately, though this isn't a place with visitor facilities or reconstructions. What you get is the real thing: archaeology you can walk on.

Llanbrynmair sits nearby and makes a sensible base if you're combining this with other walks in the area. Cringoed Caravan Park is just under a mile away, which is handy if you're touring Powys and want to tick off the sites. Allow an hour or so including the walk up - it's not strenuous but it's worth taking your time. Best visited when it's not raining; the exposed moorland gets muddy quickly. Free to visit, no gates or barriers.

History types will get the most from this. Casual day-trippers might find it a bit bare-bones compared to the polished attractions elsewhere. For walkers though, it's well worth the detour.