Catsbury Hill

The walk up Catsbury Hill rewards you with proper views across the Severn Valley - the kind of vistas that make you understand why people have been climbing hills around Gloucester for centuries. It's not a slog either. From the base near Gloucester, the ascent is gentle enough that families with older kids won't grumble the whole way up, though younger ones might need coaxing on the descent.

What you get at the top is essentially uncluttered countryside falling away in all directions. No tearooms, no gift shops, no crowds - just grass and the sound of wind and the occasional walker. On a clear day you can see for miles. Bring binoculars if you're into spotting landmarks or sketching the landscape. The whole experience takes about two hours from the car park if you're not rushing.

This works well as part of a wider walking loop around Gloucester rather than a standalone trip. Pair it with a night at one of the caravan parks dotted within a few miles - Red Lion Inn, Court Farm, or Severnside Boat & Caravan are all within easy striking distance. They're functional bases rather than destinations in themselves, but they'll do the job if you're planning a few days of hill walking and exploring the Severn Valley.

Wear decent boots. The ground can be boggy in wet weather and there's nothing worse than squelching back down a hillside in trainers. Go when you've got decent visibility - a grey day makes it feel pointless.