Steps Hill

The walk up Steps Hill near Berkhamsted is a proper little leg-stretcher with decent views across the Chiltern Hills. It's not a dramatic summit - no trig point, no café at the top - but the climb itself is straightforward and the surrounding woodland makes it feel like actual countryside despite being within reasonable distance of London.

What you get is a moderate walk through mixed trees, with the reward being clear sightlines north across the valley. On a decent day you can see quite far. The route itself is well-trodden and easy to follow, though it's muddy after rain so proper boots are worth bringing. Allow 45 minutes to an hour for a round trip from the nearest approach, longer if you're not moving fast or fancy exploring the surrounding paths.

Walkers will get the most from this - it's a solid midweek leg-stretcher without being anything special. Families with young kids might find it a bit ordinary after 20 minutes unless they're keen on spotting wildlife or collecting sticks. History buffs should know the Chilterns have plenty of Iron Age forts and ancient trackways, though Steps Hill itself isn't particularly marked as significant.

You're looking at free access - this is common country. Several camping and glamping sites sit within a few miles: Chiltern Yurts and Hill Farm Camping are closest if you're basing yourself in the area. Pair it with a proper walk around Ashridge Estate or a longer route through the Chiltern ridgeway if you want to make a full day of it.