National Trust - Cissbury Ring

You're looking at one of Sussex's best Iron Age hill forts, and the views from the top are genuinely worth the climb. Cissbury Ring sits about three and a half miles from Pulborough, commanding the South Downs with ramparts that still look properly defensive after two thousand years. The walk up takes twenty minutes or so depending on fitness, and it's steep enough to warrant proper boots.

What you get is a circular fort ringed by deep ditches and high banks - you can trace the perimeter easily, and the 360-degree views across the Weald and down to the coast justify the effort. The site's free to wander, which is typical National Trust generosity, and there's parking at the base. Bring water. On a clear day, this beats most Instagram spots without the crowds.

Families with children over eight will manage it fine. Younger kids might struggle with the gradient, though many do it. History types will appreciate the archaeology - there's evidence of Neolithic flint mines underneath, which adds proper depth to the place. Walkers treating this as part of a Downs circuit will find it integrates well with the surrounding footpaths.

Stay at Washington Caravan & Camping Park just three and a half miles away, or any of the sites clustered nearby - Fox Wood and The Barn are both within four miles. The ring works as a morning expedition before or after exploring the valley. Allow an hour minimum if you're just visiting the fort itself, longer if you're walking onward. Go midweek to avoid weekend foot traffic.