National Trust - The Kymin

You get a proper workout climbing up to this National Trust viewpoint near Coleford, but the effort pays off once you're standing on the hilltop looking out across the Wye Valley. The Kymin itself is a modest summit with a small stone tower - built in the 18th century as a folly - and what matters most is the view, which genuinely is worth the slog.

On a clear day you can see miles across the Forest of Dean and into Wales. The walk up takes about twenty minutes from the car park if you're reasonably fit, longer if you're with kids dawdling through the woodland. Once you're there, you can potter about for thirty minutes or stay put with a flask and watch the light change across the valleys.

Historically minded types will appreciate the tower itself - it's been standing since 1794 as a viewpoint for genteel visitors doing the picturesque tourist circuit. Nothing fancy, but genuinely atmospheric on a quiet afternoon. Families with primary-age children manage it fine; teenagers might find it a bit thin unless they're keen on walking. The Forest of Dean setting means you're never far from other things to do - Bracelands Campsite sits just two miles away, which is proper convenient.

Access is free and open year-round. Come in autumn when the colours are cracking and the crowds have thinned, not a sticky summer Saturday. Worth combining with a walk along the Wye itself rather than making it your whole afternoon out.