Rackham Hill

The South Downs around Patching offer proper walking country, and Rackham Hill delivers one of the region's more rewarding climbs without demanding serious effort. You're looking at an accessible ridge walk that takes you up to 755 feet with views across the Sussex weald that stretch all the way to the coast on a clear day. The summit itself is a grass-topped affair, nothing dramatic, but the walk up there is the real draw - good paths, rolling terrain, and the kind of undulating landscape that keeps you moving without becoming a slog.

It works best for families who can handle a decent walk without getting bored, or experienced hikers after an afternoon's outing rather than a full day's commitment. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip depending on your pace and how many times you stop to catch your breath or admire the view. Spring and early summer are ideal - the chalk grassland bursts with wildflowers, and the light at the end of the day is particularly good for photographs.

Staying at any of the caravan parks within four to six miles - Washington, Fox Wood, or Brookside are all close by - makes this a sensible addition to a longer Sussex rambling holiday. It pairs well with other Downs walks in the area and doesn't require any special equipment or permission to access. Bring proper boots rather than trainers, mind you. The chalk gets slippery when wet.