Doulting Sheep Sleight

The walk up Doulting Sheep Sleight isn't long, but it's steep enough to catch you out if you're not prepared. Once you're at the top, the views across the Somerset levels are genuinely worth the huffing and puffing - that flat, open landscape stretches out in front of you like someone's ironed it flat. Castle Cary sits nearby, so this works brilliantly as a morning scramble before you head into town for lunch.

This is a proper fell runner's hill rather than a family stroll, if I'm honest. The path gets boggy in places and the gradient doesn't let up much, so don't bring the pushchair. Walkers who like a bit of bite to their route will get real satisfaction from it, especially on a clear day when you can see for miles. The peak itself is exposed - no shelter, no facilities - so pick your weather carefully.

There's no gate fee or booking needed as far as I can tell; just turn up and go. Allow forty minutes to an hour for the round trip depending on fitness, and wear proper boots. If you're based at Cathedral View Glamping or Glamoring on the Hill nearby, this makes an excellent leg-stretcher before settling in for the evening. It's not the kind of place that'll occupy you all day, but as part of a wider Somerset walking trip it's absolutely solid - you get a genuine workout and genuinely decent views without the tourist crowds.