Bryn Castell Gwrych

The walk up to Bryn Castell Gwrych from Abergele isn't particularly long, but it's steep enough to catch you out if you're not prepared. The reward is a proper hilltop fort - Iron Age, Welsh heritage, the sort of place that makes you understand why the ancients chose this spot. You can see for miles from up there, across Conwy towards the coast. The actual remains aren't dramatic - earth ramparts mostly, grass-covered and weathered - but stand in the centre and you feel the defensibility of it immediately.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It's not a stroll; expect a good hour up and down depending on fitness. Families with energetic kids who like a scramble will enjoy the scramble itself, though younger children might find the height and exposure a bit much. History types will appreciate the Iron Age context and the views over what would have been an important defensive position.

It's free to visit - no entrance fee, no car park to speak of, just a proper countryside walk. Go when the weather's decent because the exposed hilltop can get grim in wind and rain, and visibility matters when you're trying to appreciate the view.

If you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby - The Beach is closest at just over a mile away - this works as a decent morning activity to burn off energy before lunch. It's not a day-long attraction, but combined with Abergele's seafront or a nearby park, it fills a half-day well enough.