Hail's view

The walk up to Hail's View from Pulborough is straightforward enough, and once you crest the ridge you understand why people bother. You're looking south across the Arun Valley with proper Sussex countryside rolling away beneath you - nothing dramatic, but genuinely lovely on a clear day. The view stretches towards the South Downs, and if the light's right, you can pick out distant ridgelines that give you a real sense of scale.

It's the sort of place that rewards a short detour rather than a destination in itself. Twenty minutes to get up there, stand about and take it in, then back down. Fine for families with older kids who can manage the incline without complaint, though the very young might find it a bit of a slog for the payoff. History buffs won't find much to get excited about - it's purely a vantage point, no buildings or markers to explain.

Free, obviously, since it's just a viewpoint. No facilities, so bring water if it's warm. Go in late afternoon when the light's behind you and the valley glows. Avoid drizzly days when the view collapses into grey.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Washington Caravan & Camping Park is closest at under five miles, with Cattlestone Farm and Wakestone & Wild Glamping also within striking distance - it's an easy leg-stretch between other walks in the area. Worth the detour, but only if you're already in Pulborough hunting for a decent viewpoint. Don't plan a trip around it.