Wolstonbury Hill

You get a proper sense of the South Downs from up here - Wolstonbury Hill rises above Hassocks with enough elevation to make the walk worthwhile but not so much that you're gasping by the summit. The hilltop itself is open chalk downland with views that stretch across Sussex farmland, and on a clear day you can pick out the Weald rolling away to the north. It's a straightforward walk from the car park below, maybe 45 minutes to the top depending on your pace, and the path is well-maintained rather than technical.

Walkers will get the most from this one - the scenery is the whole point, and the Down-side of things means you're on proper ridge-walking territory. Families with reasonably fit legs won't struggle, though younger children might find it a bit of a plod. You're not looking at anything elaborate once you reach the summit, no cafe or visitor facilities, just the view and the wind and the chance to sit and eat a sandwich.

The real value here is as part of a broader Downs walk rather than a standalone trip. If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Southdown Way or Downsview Park are both within a couple of miles - you can build this into a longer ramble across the ridge. Free to access, no specific opening hours, and you'll want to allow a couple of hours including the return. Timing matters less than weather; go on a clear day and it's absolutely worth the effort.