Pilsdon Pen

Standing at 277 metres, this Iron Age hill fort commands some of the finest views in West Dorset. The climb from the car park near Broadwindsor takes about twenty minutes - not too taxing, but steep enough to get the heart rate up. Once you reach the summit ramparts, the panorama stretches from the Mendips to Dartmoor on clear days, with the Dorset coast spread out like a map below.

Walkers and history enthusiasts will get the most from Pilsdon Pen. The earthwork remains are subtle but atmospheric - you can still make out the defensive banks that Bronze Age settlers built here over 2,000 years ago. Dogs love the open grassland, though keep them on leads during nesting season.

It's National Trust land, so access is free year-round. Allow two hours for the round trip from Bridport, including time to appreciate the views properly. The exposed summit can be brutal in winter winds, so spring through autumn offers the best conditions.

For families staying at nearby parks like Golden Cap Holiday Park or Seadown, this makes a cracking half-day adventure. The older kids who've had enough of the beach will appreciate the challenge, while parents get those Instagram-worthy shots across the Marshwood Vale. Just bring layers - the weather up here changes faster than a toddler's mood.