Burley Beacon

Thirty minutes of steady walking through gorse and heather brings you to one of the New Forest's more accessible viewpoints. Burley Beacon sits at a modest 128 metres, but what it lacks in altitude it makes up for with surprisingly expansive views across the forest canopy towards the Solent and, on clear days, the Isle of Wight.

Families with older children will find the walk manageable - it's more of a gentle slope than a proper climb. The path from Burley village is well-trodden and obvious, though it can get muddy after rain. Dog walkers are in their element here, with plenty of space for four-legged friends to roam.

From the top, you'll spot ponies grazing below and catch glimpses of Christchurch in the distance. It's not the most dramatic summit you'll ever reach, but there's something properly satisfying about earning your view. The beacon itself is more of a gentle rise than a defined peak - don't expect anything too mountainous.

Perfect for stretching your legs if you're staying at one of the nearby forest campsites like Holmsley or Setthorns. Allow an hour and a half for the round trip from Burley, including time to catch your breath at the top. Best tackled in the morning when the light is clearest for those cross-forest views.