Welcombe Hills

The hills rising north of Stratford-upon-Avon offer proper walking country - Welcombe Hills sits right on the edge of town, which means you can be out of the Shakespeare crowds and into open countryside within ten minutes. It's an elevated ridge that rewards the climb with views stretching across Warwickshire farmland, the sort of landscape that makes you understand why people settled here centuries ago.

The walk itself takes about an hour depending on your pace and how far you fancy going. There's no admission charge, just park sensibly and crack on. The terrain is manageable for most fitness levels, though it does climb steadily enough that small children might struggle without encouragement. Walkers and countryside types will get the most from it - you're after the views and fresh air rather than facilities or attractions. Families with older kids will find it a solid half-day outing, especially if they're tired of the town centre.

Worth timing it for late afternoon when the light gets interesting, or early morning if you want solitude. If you're based at one of the caravan parks scattered round Stratford - Rayford and Stratford Parks are virtually on your doorstep - this beats another trawl through the gift shops. Combine it with a walk down to the Avon or head into town afterwards. Not dramatic enough to make a special trip from elsewhere, but absolutely the sort of local spot that transforms a park holiday from just decent to actually memorable.