Tumulus

A Bronze Age burial mound sat quietly in Hertfordshire for thousands of years before anyone bothered to properly excavate it. That's the Tumulus - a low, grassy rise that doesn't look like much at first glance, but if you're into archaeology or just fancy a walk that comes with a bit of actual history, it's worth the detour east of Rickmansworth.

The site itself is modest. You're looking at an ancient burial chamber where Neolithic or Bronze Age people were laid to rest, and the earthwork that covers it has survived surprisingly well given how much the surrounding landscape has changed. There's no visitor centre, no interpretation boards spelling everything out for you - you turn up, have a look around, and use your imagination. That appeals to some people and bores others witless after five minutes.

Historically minded adults will get more out of this than families with small children, to be frank. There's no playground, no café, and it's not particularly dramatic scenery. But if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - North Hill Farm or Whelpley Hill are closest - and you fancy combining a gentle walk with a bit of archaeology, it's a reasonable morning activity. Allow 20 minutes unless you're the type who sits down and really contemplates mortality.

Bring good shoes if it's been wet. The mound can get boggy, and there's nothing worse than squelchy socks halfway through a countryside ramble.