Staple Hill

The view from Staple Hill proper knocks you out for a spot this close to Surrey commuter country. You're looking at Bracknell Forest's highest point - nothing dramatic, but the clarity on a decent day reaches across to Windsor Castle on the horizon. It's the sort of place where you realise how much green sits between here and London, which counts for something.

Getting up takes about twenty minutes from the car park, through mixed woodland that's pleasant enough without being spectacular. The path's well-trodden and not steep, so families with younger kids won't struggle. History types will appreciate the Bronze Age barrows scattered across the ridge - mounds that predate most of England's story, though you need to know what you're looking for or they're just lumps in the grass.

Walkers using this as a pit stop between Chertsey and the wider Bracknell Forest network will find it worthwhile. It breaks up a longer route nicely and the views genuinely reward the climb. Don't expect crowds or facilities - there's a car park but nothing else, so bring your own refreshments.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks around Chertsey - Laleham Camping Club or Chertsey Caravan Park are closest - this makes a decent half-day excursion. Park your caravan, walk up, take in the vista, and you're back for lunch. Free to visit, open whenever. It's not life-changing, but on a clear morning it's worth the short drive.