Lodge Hills

The highest point in Essex might not set your heart racing if you're used to proper hills, but Lodge Hills near Colchester is a decent spot for a walk and a decent vantage point. At around 420 feet, it's more of a gentle rise than anything dramatic, but that's rather the point. The views across the Colchester countryside are pleasant enough on a clear day - nothing that'll make you gasp, but solid enough to justify the walk.

It works well as part of a wider exploration of the area rather than a destination in itself. The walk up takes maybe twenty minutes, and there's a reasonable footpath network around the surrounding farmland. Families with young kids will find it manageable, though you're looking at a fairly modest outing. Serious walkers will want to loop this into longer routes across the Essex countryside.

The real value is pairing it with the caravan and glamping sites scattered nearby. Rushbanks Farm is just two miles away, making it an easy evening stroll from your pitch. Colchester Country Park, about five miles off, offers more woodland walking if you want to make a proper day of it. There's no admission charge as far as I can tell, and you can rock up whenever suits you.

Go if you're based locally for a week and fancy breaking up the days with short walks. Don't go out of your way specially for it. The Colchester area has plenty of other draws that'll keep you busier.