Birdlip Peak

Standing at 913 feet above sea level, this Cotswold escarpment offers sweeping views across the Severn Vale that stretch on clear days to the Welsh mountains. The climb up from the car park near the A417 is short but steep - ten minutes of proper effort through woodland paths before you emerge onto the open grassland summit.

Walkers and photographers will find themselves well rewarded. On a good day, you can pick out the Malvern Hills to the north and the Forest of Dean spreading west. The panorama takes in a proper chunk of three counties, though it's worth noting the view can disappear entirely when low cloud rolls in from the valley.

Families with older children who don't mind a bit of uphill walking will enjoy the adventure, but it's not pushchair territory and toddlers might struggle with the gradient. The peak itself is open access land, so there's no admission fee and you can visit any time of year.

Location-wise, you're well placed for exploring the wider Cotswolds from here. Cheltenham lies just six miles northeast, while several holiday parks dot the area - Star Glamping sits closest at under two miles away, with Cherry Tree Glamping and Big Skies offering alternatives within easy driving distance. Allow an hour for the walk and view-taking, longer if you fancy exploring the surrounding bridleways.