Little Mountain

Calling this a mountain is rather generous - Little Mountain rises just 323 metres above sea level, making it more of a proper hill really. But don't let the modest height put you off. The walk up from Hereford's outskirts rewards you with cracking views across the Wye Valley and the Welsh hills beyond.

Families will find the ascent manageable, though it's steep enough to get the heart pumping. The path can get muddy after rain, so decent boots are wise. Allow about two hours for the round trip if you want to linger at the summit and actually take in the scenery.

What makes this walk worthwhile is the sense of achievement for relatively little effort. Kids who grumble about longer hikes will cope with this one, and the panoramic views from the top genuinely impress on a clear day. The Brecon Beacons shimmer in the distance, while Hereford Cathedral is visible far below.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Heart of the Wye Glamping or Hay-on-Wye Caravan Park? Little Mountain makes for a decent morning's exercise before exploring the bookshops of Hay-on-Wye or the cathedral city itself. It's free, always open, and frankly a good warm-up if you're planning any serious walking in the Black Mountains later in your holiday.