Milk Hill

Standing at 380 metres, this modest Staffordshire peak won't challenge serious hikers but delivers proper countryside views across the Churnet Valley. The summit sits just north of Alton, making it a decent leg-stretcher if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Alton's Star Camping site or the glamping pods at Secret Cloud House Holidays.

Expect rolling farmland rather than dramatic vistas - this isn't the Lake District, but on a clear day you'll spot the Roaches ridge to the northeast and catch glimpses of the Staffordshire moorlands. The walk up takes about 45 minutes from the village, following well-marked footpaths through typical English countryside of hedgerows and sheep pastures.

Families with older children will find it manageable, though toddlers might struggle with the steady climb. Dog walkers love it here - plenty of space and relatively quiet paths compared to busier Staffordshire peaks. Best avoided after heavy rain when the footpaths turn into proper mud baths.

From Stoke-on-Trent it's a 20-minute drive south, making it an easy day trip addition to a Staffordshire break. Free to access year-round, though parking can be limited near the village. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, including time to appreciate the views from the top.