Highwood Hill

The walk up Highwood Hill is brisk and rewards you with views across the Hertfordshire countryside. At 245 metres, it's hardly a mountain, but don't let that put you off - the summit gives you proper sight lines toward London on a clear day, and the woodland surrounding the peak makes for a pleasant afternoon ramble.

It's the sort of place that works best for walkers who know the area well. The hill itself isn't signposted like some tourist hotspot, which means you'll need a map or local knowledge to find the best approach from Elstree. Once you're up there, though, the views justify the effort. Bring binoculars if you're keen on spotting landmarks; the visibility can be genuinely impressive when weather permits.

Family visits depend on your kids' age. Younger children might find the walk tedious without a proper destination building at the top - it's just grassland and trees. Teenagers and adults who enjoy a proper countryside walk will get more from it. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip, longer if you're not a fast walker.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - The Mimms or Aldenham Country Park are both within reach - Highwood Hill works well as a morning activity before heading elsewhere. It's free to visit and sits neatly between Elstree and the wider Hertfordshire walking routes. Don't expect facilities at the top, so bring water.