Rodway Hill

The walk up Rodway Hill rewards you with proper views across the Severn Valley - the sort of vista that makes you understand why people settled here centuries ago. It's not a dramatic peak by any stretch, but that's rather the point. From Longney, you're looking at a straightforward climb through open countryside, and the whole thing takes a couple of hours depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top.

This is walker territory, absolutely. You won't find a cafe or visitor centre waiting at the summit, just space to breathe and countryside rolling away in all directions. Families with younger kids might find it a bit of a slog without much payoff at the end - no summit building, no ice cream van - but teenagers and anyone who actually enjoys being outside will get plenty from it. The views are the thing here: clear days reveal the Cotswolds in the distance, and you can trace the river's path below.

Timing matters. Early morning or late afternoon light transforms the experience, and weekdays are markedly quieter than weekends. Allow a full afternoon if you're based at one of the nearby camping sites - Court Farm or Norton Park Lodges are within easy striking distance - and pair it with a walk along the Severn itself if you've got energy left.

It's free, naturally. Bring water, proper footwear, and don't expect to download anything useful beforehand - there's no signposting to speak of, so map work or a local's guidance is essential.