Polecat Hill

The walk up Polecat Hill takes about twenty minutes from the car park near Petersfield, and frankly it's one of those walks that feels longer than it is. The climb is steady rather than steep, through proper Hampshire woodland that's dense enough to feel like you're getting away from things even though you're not far from town. Once you crest the summit, you get a decent spread of countryside views across the South Downs - nothing that'll make your jaw drop, but solid enough on a clear day. The hilltop itself is fairly sparse, just open ground and views in three directions. It's the sort of place walkers drag themselves up for the small satisfaction of getting to the top, rather than somewhere you'd visit specifically for the scenery. Worth doing if you're staying nearby and fancy a leg-stretcher, particularly with kids who enjoy a forest walk. The whole thing is free and takes a couple of hours if you're not rushed. If you're based at one of the local holiday parks - Feather Down Manor Farm or Little Cowdray Farm Glamping are both within six miles - it makes a decent half-day outing to burn off some energy. Early morning is best if you want to avoid other walkers, and autumn when the light's better for views. Summer can feel a bit airless under the trees.