Easton Down

The walk up to Easton Down delivers proper views across the Hampshire downs - the kind that make you understand why this corner of England kept its rolling character while the rest flattened for motorways. It's a straightforward ramble from Winchester that takes you to the summit where the landscape opens out in all directions, chalky paths crunching underfoot.

This is walker territory, honestly. The up-and-down terrain suits people with decent boots more than families with toddlers, though older kids who don't mind a steep push will find it rewarding. There's nothing built on top - no café, no facilities - so bring water and a packed lunch if you're making an afternoon of it. Plan on two to three hours for the round trip depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top.

The real draw is the walk itself rather than a destination you tick off. In spring the chalk slopes burst with wildflowers; autumn light across the downs is genuinely lovely. It's the sort of place where you actually need proper weather to justify the effort - grey drizzle and you'll wonder why you bothered.

If you're staying at one of the caravan parks dotted round Winchester - Holden Farm or The Spinney are closest - this makes a solid morning or early afternoon excursion. Pairs well with exploring Winchester's high street and cathedral afterwards. The downs walking around here is the main event though; this particular peak is the excuse to get out and see them.