Mold Castle

The castle mound rises abruptly from the town centre, a grassy hump that doesn't look like much until you're stood on top of it. From there, Mold spreads out below you - proper views across Flintshire towards the Welsh hills. There's not a lot left to see, truth be told. A Norman motte-and-bailey, built sometime in the 12th century, now just earthworks and the odd buried stone foundation. But that's rather the point.

Walkers will appreciate the short sharp climb - five minutes from the town car park and you've gained genuine height and perspective. History buffs get a kick out of imagining what the wooden fortifications looked like seven centuries ago. Kids will find it engaging for about twenty minutes before asking what's next.

It's free to visit and accessible year-round. The mound itself is open ground, so no gates or visitor facilities to speak of. Go on a clear day when visibility's good. On grey days it feels a bit exposed and lonely. Winter's actually rather atmospheric if you don't mind mud.

If you're staying at Honeypot Hideaways or Willow Farm Glamping - both rated five stars and within six miles - Mold Castle makes a perfectly decent half-hour detour on your way elsewhere. Worth combining with a walk through the town itself, which has a proper high street and some decent independent shops. It's not going to blow your mind, but it's honest history and costs nothing.