Ecclesbourne Glen

The glen itself is a proper wooded ravine that cuts through the Sussex countryside just outside Hastings - the sort of place you stumble upon and wonder how you've never heard of it before. Water runs through it year-round, and the steep sides are thick with trees, so even on a baking summer's day it feels cool and damp down there. The path follows the stream for a decent walk, maybe forty minutes or so depending on how far you fancy going.

It's ideal for families who want to let the kids burn off energy without needing a formal attraction with gift shops and admission fees. Walkers get something genuine here rather than a manicured park route. The glen has actual character - moss-covered trees, ferns, the works. Bring wellies though; it can be boggy, and after rain it's properly squelchy.

Timing-wise, spring and early summer are best. Autumn's decent too if you like the muddy underfoot feeling. Winter gets dark early and the whole thing feels a bit grim when the light's gone by four o'clock.

For a holiday base, you're spoilt for choice with Coghurst Hall and Beaulieu Farm both under two miles away. Combe Haven and Crowhurst Park offer more space if you need it. The glen works perfectly as a morning walk before heading to Hastings town centre or down to the seafront - it's close enough that you're not burning half the day on travel.