Whiteway head

The walk up to Whiteway Head rewards you with proper views across the Herefordshire countryside - rolling hills and farmland stretching out in all directions. It's a nature reserve rather than a managed visitor attraction, so expect woodland paths, open moorland, and the kind of peace you actually get when there's no gift shop or café in sight.

This is one for walkers who don't mind a bit of effort and want to escape the tourist trail. The terrain's undulating but not brutal, and you're looking at a solid two to three hours if you do the full circuit. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars - you'll spot buzzards and kestrels if you're lucky. In spring and summer, the wildflower meadows make the hike genuinely worth the trip.

The nearest proper base is Herefordshire town itself, though you've got several caravan parks within five miles - Home Farm is closest at under two miles, while Pearl Lake and Arrow Bank offer more facilities if you're staying longer. None of these parks are exactly luxury, but they're well-positioned for exploring the wider area.

Go early if you can, especially on weekends. There's no entrance fee and facilities are minimal, so bring water and wear proper boots. The reserve can get waterlogged in winter, so autumn and spring are your best bet. It's the kind of place that satisfies a proper countryside day out without feeling manufactured.