National Trust Wolstonbury Hill

The walk up Wolstonbury Hill rewards you with proper views across the Sussex Weald. It's a National Trust property that doesn't require a car park fee or admission - you just turn up and walk. The hill itself is crowned with an Iron Age fort, though honestly the ramparts are subtle enough that you'll miss them if you're not paying attention. Worth knowing before you go.

From the top, you can see right across to the South Downs on a clear day. The actual climb from Hassocks takes about forty minutes depending on your pace, and the path is well-maintained if occasionally muddy. Families with older kids will manage fine; younger ones might find the slog a bit much on a hot day.

This works brilliantly as a half-day outing if you're staying at Blacklands Farm Caravan & Camping nearby. The site is only four miles away, so you could knock this out in a morning and still have the afternoon free. The views are genuine - not overdone, not disappointing - and there's something rather satisfying about reaching the top knowing you've earned it on foot. The fort's archaeological angle appeals to history types more than casual walkers, but the landscape itself is the real draw here. Go early to dodge the crowds at weekends.