Thorncombe Beacon

Standing at 157 metres above the Dorset coast, this grassy hilltop delivers one of the finest viewpoints along the Jurassic Coast. The climb from nearby Eype or Seatown takes about 45 minutes through fields and along well-marked coastal paths, with the gradient steep enough to get your heart pumping but not so brutal that children will mutiny halfway up.

From the top, the panorama stretches from Portland Bill in the east to Lyme Regis in the west, with the golden cliffs of Golden Cap - Dorset's highest point - dominating the view to the southeast. On clear days you can spot the white chalk of Beer Head across Lyme Bay. The beacon itself is just a modest triangulation point, but who needs drama when you've got views like this?

Walkers tackling the South West Coast Path will find this a natural stopping point, though families based at nearby holiday parks like Highlands End or Golden Cap should know it's more of a proper hike than a gentle stroll. Allow three hours for the round trip from Bridport, including time to catch your breath and take photos. The exposure means it can be blowy even on calm days, so pack layers.