Thundersbarrow Hill

The walk up Thundersbarrow Hill rewards you with one of those views that makes the climb worthwhile - proper rolling Sussex countryside stretching out in all directions, with the South Downs rising up behind. It's not a massive peak, but that's rather the point. The route from Henfield is straightforward enough, taking you through farmland and up open downland, and the summit itself gives you a genuine sense of accomplishment without requiring mountaineering skills.

This is ideal for walkers who want a proper leg-stretch rather than a casual stroll. The hill itself is free to access - you're just walking across the Downs - and you can crack it in an hour or two depending on your pace and which route you take. Spring and early autumn are best, when the paths aren't waterlogged and the light sits nicely across the valleys.

If you're camping nearby at Foot of the Downs or Downsview Park, this makes a straightforward morning walk that won't eat into your whole day. The proximity to Henfield means you can grab supplies before heading out, and the walk feels properly rural despite being just a handful of miles from civilisation. Fair warning though: on a grey day it's just a wet hillside, so pick your weather. The views are everything here.