Middle Hill

The walk up Middle Hill from Holford is straightforward enough, and on a clear day the view across the Quantock Hills justifies the effort. You're looking at a modest Somerset peak - nothing that'll have you gasping, but the surrounding moorland and distant coastline glimpses make it worthwhile if you're already in the area. The route itself is well-trodden, mostly through heather and bracken, with the occasional scramble over loose stones. Allow 90 minutes there and back if you're taking it steady.

Families with older kids will manage fine. Younger ones might find it a bit of a slog without much to distract them on the way up - there's no visitor centre or café, just open moorland and your own pace. But once you're there, the sense of space is genuinely refreshing, especially if you've come from the coast roads south of Taunton.

It works best as part of a proper Quantock Hills day out rather than a standalone trip. The nearby campsites - Moorhouse Campsite and Mill Farm Caravan & Camping Park are both within reasonable distance - make decent bases. Secret Valley is slightly closer if you fancy a bit more comfort. Weather matters enormously here. Morning mist in summer can leave you staring at a blank wall, so get up early or wait for the afternoon clear-out. Free to visit, as with all the Quantock access routes.