Swinyard Hill

Views across three counties await at the top of this 1,204-foot peak, but you'll earn every inch of elevation getting there. Swinyard Hill sits at the southern end of the Malvern Hills ridge, offering one of the more challenging climbs in the range with a proper workout involved. The summit rewards walkers with panoramic vistas stretching across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire on clear days.

Serious walkers will get the most from this one - it's not a gentle family stroll. The ascent from Malvern takes about an hour of steady climbing, with some steep sections that'll have you breathing hard. Once up top though, the sense of achievement matches the spectacular outlook.

Being part of the Malvern Hills, access is completely free and the paths are open year-round. Early morning visits often provide the clearest views before afternoon haze sets in. Weather changes quickly up here, so pack layers even on seemingly mild days.

For those staying at nearby holiday parks like The Turbles or Swallowfields Retreat, Swinyard Hill makes an excellent day's objective. It's well worth combining with other Malvern peaks if you're feeling energetic - the ridge walk connecting multiple summits is one of the finest in the Midlands. Just don't underestimate the climb.