Quinton Heights

The highest point in Northamptonshire might not set your heart racing - at 220 metres, Quinton Heights is more of a gentle rise than a dramatic summit. But that's rather the point. This is proper East Midlands terrain: rolling rather than rugged, with far-reaching views across the countryside that feel genuinely rewarding once you've made the modest climb from Towcester.

The walk itself takes the best part of an hour depending on your pace and where you start from. You'll pass through farmland and small woodland sections, which means it works well for families with school-age kids and keen walkers after something low-commitment. The views from the top stretch across several counties on a clear day - nothing dramatic, but the kind of landscape that makes you understand why people stick around these parts.

There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring water and wear decent boots if the ground's been wet. The whole thing is free, obviously, and you can tackle it any time. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than weekends.

If you're camping at one of the parks near Northampton - Billing Aquadrome and Kirkely Meadows are both within striking distance - this makes a cracking morning outing before heading elsewhere. It's the sort of spot that doesn't demand a full day but absolutely fills a gap in your itinerary if you're spending a week or so in the area.