St Ann's Hill

St Ann's Hill rises up from the Thames Valley like a proper surprise - nothing dramatic, but solid. It's the sort of walk that sneaks up on you, especially if you're staying at one of the caravan parks around Chertsey and fancy getting your legs moving without committing to a full day out.

The climb itself is manageable, maybe twenty minutes from the base depending on your pace, and the views across Surrey once you reach the top are genuinely worth the effort. On a clear day you can see proper distance - it's one of those spots where you realise the landscape actually has shape to it, rather than just being flat all the way to London.

Historically it's got some weight too. Pope's Grotto sits on the slopes - Alexander Pope's famous retreat from the 18th century - so there's actual literary bones to the place if that's your thing. The paths are well-trodden and straightforward enough for families with kids who can manage a steady walk, though it's not a toddler-friendly job.

Get up there early or on a weekday if you can. Weekends pull in the local dog walkers and joggers, which isn't a bad thing but does take some of the peace away. About an hour total if you take your time and poke around the top.

It works well as a morning mission if you're based at Chertsey Caravan Park or any of the other sites nearby - breaks up the day without eating up your whole afternoon. Free to access, naturally. No facilities on the hill itself, so bring water.