Priddy Green

The Mendip plateau around Priddy Green feels properly remote despite being just a few miles from Wells. This is limestone country - open grassland dotted with sinkholes and ancient settlement remains that make you realise how long people have been drawn to this landscape.

Priddy Green itself is a working commons where you can walk freely across rough grassland and browse the archaeological features. There are Bronze Age barrows, medieval strip lynchets scarring the hillside, and those curious depressions in the turf that mark collapsed caves or quarries. On a clear day the views stretch south across the Mendips, which is proper worth the leg stretch. Bring a decent map - paths aren't always obvious, but that's part of the appeal.

Walkers and history types will get the most from it. Families with young kids might find an hour enough unless they're the type to enjoy rambling for rambling's sake. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so come prepared. Free access as far as I can tell, though it's worth checking locally before you go.

If you're camping at Cheddar or Wells Touring Park nearby, Priddy Green makes a solid morning walk before heading elsewhere. Combine it with a visit to Wookey Hole or the market town of Wells itself - you're ideally placed for exploring the whole area. The ground can be boggy in winter, so spring or autumn usually works better. Go early to beat any crowds, though honestly you won't find many.