Newtown Mountain

The walk up Newtown Mountain takes about forty minutes if you're reasonably fit, and the payoff is a proper 360-degree view across Shropshire that makes the climb feel worthwhile. It's not dramatic - we're talking 1,300 feet or so - but on a clear day you can see right across to Wales from the summit, and that's a genuine thrill. The route itself is straightforward enough, though it can get muddy after rain, so decent boots matter. Wrexham's just down the road, which makes this a cracking half-day outing if you're staying in the area.

Timing-wise, I'd allow two hours there and back if you're bringing kids who'll want to dawdle at the top. Walkers will appreciate the moorland feel - it's proper upland terrain without being intimidating. History types won't find much up there, but the views themselves are the main event. It's free to access and there's parking at the base, though nowhere fancy.

For a park-based holiday, Foxtail Holiday Park sits about six miles away and makes a sensible base - close enough for an early morning scramble up Newtown, early enough back for lunch. The mountain works best in autumn or spring when it's not too muggy for climbing. Summer crowds aren't really an issue here; it's quiet enough to feel like you've found something for yourself.