Weston Down

The walk up Weston Down rewards you with proper views across the Hampshire chalklands - nothing dramatic, but on a clear day you can see right across to the South Downs. It's the kind of place locals know well but tourists often miss, tucked just outside Winchester.

The summit isn't particularly high or demanding. You're looking at maybe half an hour's walk from the nearest car parking area, a gentle climb through downland that's at its best in spring when the chalk flowers come through. Once you reach the top, there's a decent vista but frankly it's the walk itself that's the draw rather than some showstopping peak.

This suits families with younger kids and anyone who wants decent countryside without needing proper hiking boots. It's free, naturally, and you can bang out a round trip in under two hours including a sit-down at the top. The real value is if you're already staying in the Winchester area - it breaks up a day far better than another museum visit.

If you're based at Hookpit Farm Caravan Site nearby, it's worth combining with a wander down to Winchester itself. The down works as a morning jaunt before lunch in town. Solo walkers will find it peaceful rather than thrilling; it's genuinely nice but not the sort of place you'll remember for years. Decent spot though, and the kind of quiet corner that actually makes you understand why people choose to live here.