The Giant's Cave

Scrambling up to the Giant's Cave near Chepstow feels properly adventurous, even if the walk's only moderate and most people manage it fine. You're rewarded with views across the Wye Valley that justify the effort - the river curves below like something out of a landscape painting, and on clear days you can see for miles. The cave itself is more of a rock shelter than anything dramatic, but that's half the charm. There's something satisfying about standing where someone, centuries back, probably did the same.

This one's best for walkers with decent boots rather than casual strollers. Kids aged eight upwards will enjoy the scramble and the sense of discovery, though toddlers will find it frustrating. Budget ninety minutes to two hours depending on how long you linger and photograph the view. No facilities at the site itself, so bring water.

If you're based at Penhein Glamping or Forest and Wye Valley Caravan and Camping Site - both genuinely excellent - the Giant's Cave makes a cracking half-day outing. It pairs well with exploring Chepstow itself, which is close enough for a lunch stop. The walk isn't strenuous enough to ruin an afternoon, but it's substantial enough that you'll feel you've actually done something. Worth the detour if you're in the area and the weather's decent.