Week Down

Standing 235 metres above the southern tip of the Isle of Wight, this grassy summit offers one of the island's finest panoramic views. From Week Down's rounded peak, the entire sweep of the English Channel stretches before you, with the chalk cliffs of the Needles visible on clear days to the west.

Walkers will appreciate the relatively gentle climb from Ventnor - it's a proper workout but nothing too demanding. The National Trust manages the downland here, keeping the ancient grassland in good condition. Wild orchids dot the slopes in summer, and the birdsong is lovely.

Families should budget about two hours for the round trip from Ventnor, though teenagers might grumble about the walk up. The views make it worthwhile - on a clear day you can see right across to the French coast. Photography enthusiasts will have a field day with the dramatic coastal vistas.

This works brilliantly as a morning expedition if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks around Ventnor. Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park is closest at just over a mile away, making it an easy starting point. Pack a thermos - the exposed summit can be blustery even on warm days, but that's part of the appeal. The sense of space and freedom up here is remarkable for such a compact island.