Lions Hill

Lions Hill sits just outside Ringwood and offers one of those proper Dorset views that makes the short walk up worthwhile. It's not a dramatic summit - more a gentle rise across open heathland - but that's rather the point. From the top you get unobstructed sightlines across the New Forest boundary and back towards the Avon Valley. The heathland itself is the main attraction here: gorse, heather, and that particular light you only get on the south coast.

This is walker territory, honestly. The ascent takes perhaps twenty minutes from the car park, and there's nothing technical about it. Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after the initial climb - the appeal is really in the view and the sense of open space rather than any facilities or features at the summit. Birdwatchers do well here, particularly in spring. Winter visits can be bleak and lovely in equal measure.

It's free to access and you can take as long as you like. Go mid-week if you can; weekends bring a fair few people out. The closest caravan parks - Ashley Heath and Forest Edge Holiday Park - are practically on your doorstep, making this an easy morning excursion before heading deeper into the New Forest. Pair it with a walk round nearby Ringwood town itself, or push on to explore the forest proper if you've got time and proper boots.