Mount Ararat

The walk up Mount Ararat rewards you with one of the finest views across the New Forest and beyond - but calling it a 'mount' might be overselling things a touch. It's a modest hill near Fordingbridge, yet the vantage point from the top genuinely justifies the short climb. On a clear day you're looking out over miles of open heath and woodland, with the forest rolling away in all directions.

This is proper walker territory. The ascent takes maybe fifteen minutes from the car park, and the path is straightforward enough for families with older kids, though the ground can be boggy in winter. You'll want to allow an hour all told if you're taking photographs or just sitting about with a thermos.

Family groups will find it satisfying without being exhausting - young children might lose interest after the initial scramble, but anyone old enough to appreciate a genuine panorama will understand why locals rate it. The New Forest itself dominates the view, and on weekends you might spot the famous ponies grazing on the heath below.

If you're based at Hill Cottage Farm or Ashley Heath nearby, it's an easy jaunt that breaks up a caravan holiday nicely. Bring a packed lunch and stay for sunset if the weather's cooperating - the light across the forest gets properly golden. It's free to visit and there's no faffing about with opening hours. Worth the detour, especially if you're already exploring the Forest Edge or Oakdene properties in the area.