Littlebilling Heights

Views across the Nene Valley spread out below from this modest rise just outside Northampton. Littlebilling Heights isn't going to trouble any serious hill walkers - it's more of a gentle climb that rewards you with surprisingly decent panoramas over the surrounding countryside. The ascent takes maybe twenty minutes from the nearest parking spot, making it an easy leg-stretcher for families staying at nearby Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park or Overstone Lakes. Kids won't complain about the gradient, and there's usually enough of a breeze at the top to make it feel properly elevated. On clear days you can pick out the spires of Northampton's churches and trace the river's path through the valley. It's free to roam, naturally, though finding the actual summit can be a bit hit-and-miss without proper waymarking. Dog walkers seem to have claimed this as their territory, which is fair enough given the open access. Best visited in the morning when the light hits the valley just right. Don't expect mountain drama - this is gentle Northamptonshire rolling countryside at its most accessible. Perfect for working off a caravan breakfast before heading to Sywell Country Park or one of the other local attractions. Allow an hour round trip unless you're really dawdling.