Nottingham Hill

The walk up Nottingham Hill rewards you with proper views across the Cotswolds - on a clear day you can see for miles from the summit. It's not a massive climb, nothing that'll test serious hillwalkers, but it's steep enough in sections to feel like you've earned the vista at the top.

You get sweeping farmland, rolling countryside, and on the right conditions, sight lines stretching toward the Welsh hills. The hill itself is just the thing if you want a brisk hour's outing without committing to a full day trek. Families with kids aged eight upwards will manage it fine, though younger ones might find the pace a slog. History types will find less to bite on here - it's more about the landscape than any particular story - but walkers who simply want to stretch their legs and breathe proper air will rate it.

Based near Cheltenham, you're well positioned for exploring this chunk of the Cotswolds. The campsite at Cheltenham Racecourse is barely three miles away, and Winchcombe Camping and Caravanning Club sits just as close, making Nottingham Hill a convenient morning or afternoon venture while parked up. Bring a picnic if the weather holds - there's nothing fancy at the summit, just the views and the wind and space to think.

Timing-wise, spring and autumn are ideal - summer can be muggy, winter muddy in places. Allow 90 minutes for a leisurely up-and-down without rushing. Free to access, no facilities on the hill itself, so come prepared.