Allens Hill

The climb up Allens Hill near Shrewsbury is short and sharp - nothing that demands fell-walking boots, but it's steep enough to get your heart going. The summit sits at a decent height above the surrounding Shropshire landscape, and on a clear day you'll clock views across the surrounding countryside that make the effort worthwhile. It's not some dramatic rocky outcrop; this is gentler English terrain, all rolling fields and distant church spires.

Walkers will appreciate it most, particularly those after a quick leg-stretcher rather than a full day's hike. The round trip won't take more than an hour, possibly less if you're fit. Families with older kids can manage it fine, though younger ones might find the gradient a bit much. The real strength here is how close it sits to Shrewsbury - you're never far from the town's cafes and pubs, which is handy if you want to combine a morning walk with proper lunch plans.

If you're staying at any of the caravan parks dotted within a few miles - Oxon Hall is practically on your doorstep, while Spring Lea and the others spread out towards Ellesmere way - Allens Hill makes a sensible morning objective. It's free to visit, obviously, and there's no messing about with opening hours or admission fees. Go midweek if you can to dodge weekenders, and avoid winter when the muddy bits get genuinely slippy. Worth the detour? Only if you're based nearby. Don't drive specially for it.