Friar Wadden Hill

Standing at 220 metres, this modest Dorset peak offers surprisingly expansive views across the Fleet Lagoon and Portland Harbour without the crowds that flock to the coastal paths below. The walk up from Langton Herring takes about 30 minutes through gentle farmland, though the final stretch gets a bit steep if you're carrying a heavy rucksack.

From the summit, you'll spot the distinctive outline of Portland Bill to the southeast and the Chesil Beach stretching away toward Abbotsbury. On clear days, the view extends well inland across the rolling Dorset countryside. It's proper peaceful up here - you might hear larks singing but little else.

Walkers will appreciate this as a gentle warm-up before tackling the South West Coast Path, while families with older children (say 8+) should manage the ascent without too much complaint. The younger ones might find it a slog though. Allow an hour and a half return from any of the nearby holiday parks like Bagwell Farm or East Fleet Farm, both within easy driving distance of the trailhead.

Best tackled in the morning when the light catches the lagoon beautifully. Weather changes quickly on these exposed hills, so pack layers even on sunny days. It's free to climb, naturally, and accessible year-round though the path can get muddy after rain.