Truleigh Hill

Truleigh Hill sits at 713 metres on the South Downs, commanding proper views across Sussex farmland and, on a clear day, towards the sea. It's a straightforward walk from Henfield - the path climbs steadily through open downland, and you'll hit the trig point in under an hour depending on your pace. There's a youth hostel here too, which feels oddly welcoming at the summit.

The appeal is simple: this is walkers' territory. You get real open space, no commercial nonsense, and genuine solitude even on weekends. Families with older kids will manage the ascent fine, though younger ones might find the last stretch a bit relentless. History buffs won't get much out of it - there's nothing ancient here, just chalk and windswept grass - but anyone after proper South Downs air and a sense of achievement will find it worthwhile.

The walk is completely free, obviously. Allow a solid two hours for the round trip if you're not particularly fit, less if you're used to hills. Late afternoon light is excellent for photos, though the wind can be brutal.

Camp at Foot of the Downs, barely a mile away, and Truleigh becomes your daily morning mission. Downsview Park sits similarly close. Both give you quick access to serious walking without the faffing about with a car each time. It's a proper addition to a downland holiday, not a standalone destination, but exactly the kind of leg-stretcher caravan parks need nearby.