Little Caradoc

One glance at Little Caradoc's heather-topped summit and you'll understand why the locals call it the perfect starter peak. This 1,506-foot hill sits comfortably in the shadow of its more famous neighbour, the Caradoc, but offers cracking views without the crowds.

Reasonably fit families will find the ascent manageable - it's steep enough to feel like proper hillwalking but won't have the kids complaining after ten minutes. The path winds through bracken and gorse, with the reward being panoramic views across the Shropshire Hills and towards the Welsh borders on clear days.

Walkers often tackle Little Caradoc as part of a longer ridge walk, but it stands well on its own merits. The summit makes for a lovely spot to catch your breath and take in the rolling countryside that stretches towards Willstone below. It's the sort of hill that reminds you why Shropshire's walking country is so well regarded.

Allow two to three hours for the round trip from the nearest parking, though experienced walkers might manage it quicker. The hill sits within easy reach of several camping spots, with Alderwood Glamping less than a mile away and Brook House Farm just over two miles if you're planning a longer stay. Weather can change quickly up here, so pack accordingly even for what seems like a straightforward afternoon walk.