Shooters Hill

The views from Shooters Hill stretch across the Cotswolds in a way that makes the modest climb entirely worth it. Standing here, you're looking at proper rolling countryside - the kind that justifies why people spend small fortunes on holiday cottages in this corner of Gloucestershire.

It's not a gruelling hike by any means. The walk up from Cirencester takes under an hour, and the path is straightforward enough for families with older kids, though younger ones might find it a bit of a slog on a hot day. Once you're up there, the payoff is genuine - on clear days you can see for miles, and the light across the hills changes constantly through the afternoon.

The hill itself is modest in height but feels significant because of how exposed you are once you reach the top. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so bring water and decent shoes with grip. It's free to access, naturally, and you can spend as little as two hours there or stretch a half-day walk if you explore the surrounding footpaths.

If you're staying at Mayfield Park or the Cirencester Club site - both within easy reach - this makes a cracking afternoon outing. Hoburne Cotswold, further out towards Cheltenham, is a bit of a trek but still workable as a day trip. Go when the weather's settled. Midweek is noticeably quieter than weekends, and the golden hour light in late afternoon is genuinely special up there.