Windmill Hill

Standing 184 metres above Nottingham, this modest hill delivers surprisingly rewarding views across the city and surrounding countryside. The climb itself is gentle enough for most families, though you'll want proper walking boots if the ground's been wet - the paths can get properly muddy after rain.

From the summit, you get a cracking panorama that takes in Nottingham's urban sprawl and, on clear days, stretches well into Derbyshire. It's not dramatic stuff, but there's something satisfying about getting above it all without breaking too much of a sweat. Dog walkers love it here, and you'll often have the place to yourself on weekday mornings.

The walk up takes about 20 minutes from the nearest car park, making it an ideal leg-stretcher if you're staying at one of the nearby campsites like Nottingham Camping and Caravanning Club Site. Families with young children will find it manageable, though teenagers might grumble it's not exciting enough. History enthusiasts should know there's an old windmill site here - hence the name - though precious little remains to see.

Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon when the light's softer and Nottingham's tower blocks don't look quite so industrial. It's free, obviously, and makes a decent warm-up walk before tackling something more ambitious in the Peak District.