Brent Knoll

Standing 137 metres above the Somerset Levels, this distinctive hill rises like a lonely sentinel from the flat landscape between Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea. The climb to the summit is proper steep - don't let anyone tell you otherwise - but the views from the top are absolutely cracking on a clear day.

You'll spot the Bristol Channel stretching out to Wales, while the Quantock Hills roll away to the west. The hill's got a decent footpath network, though it can get muddy after rain. Most people manage the ascent in about 20 minutes, but allow longer if you're bringing kids or stopping to catch your breath.

Families staying at nearby parks like Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday Village or Sandy Meadows Lodge Park often make this their morning walk before hitting the beach. The hill's completely free to explore, and there's a small car park at the base near East Brent village.

Historians will appreciate the Iron Age hillfort remains at the summit, though there's not much to see beyond some earthworks. The real draw is that panoramic view - on a good day you can see for miles across the Levels. Just don't attempt it in thick fog unless you fancy a very dull trudge up a muddy slope.