King Henry's Mound

You're standing on a modest rise in Richmond Park, and somewhere in the distance - on a clear day - you can see right through to St Paul's Cathedral. That's the whole point of King Henry's Mound, really. Built in the 18th century as a viewing platform, it's more concept than spectacle: a slight earthwork with a wooden bench, from which Henry VIII allegedly watched for a signal that Anne Boleyn had been executed. Whether that's true or just good marketing, the view does deliver on its promise, though you'll need decent weather and patience to spot the Cathedral's dome through the trees.

Walkers exploring Richmond Park will find this a natural stopping point on a circuit walk - it's not a destination in itself, but rather a pleasant reason to pause. The actual monument is fairly basic: no gift shop, no interpretation boards beyond a modest plaque. That said, the location itself is rather special. You're in the heart of proper ancient parkland, with deer grazing nearby and the whole sweep of the Surrey countryside rolling away.

Allow 20 minutes if you're passing through, rather longer if you want to sit and squint at London through the haze. It's free, obviously, and works brilliantly as part of a broader park walk. The nearby Walton on Thames Camping and Caravanning Club Site, about five miles away, makes a good base if you're planning to spend a day exploring the park properly. Best visited on crisp, clear mornings when visibility is actually decent.