Harris Tump

A grassy mound rising abruptly from the Shropshire countryside near Craven Arms, Harris Tump is one of those landmarks that makes you wonder what on earth you're looking at. The answer is Iron Age - this is a hill fort, though one far less famous than its neighbours along the English/Welsh borderlands. The views from the top sweep across the hills towards Wales, and on a clear day you can see why Bronze Age people chose the high ground here.

It's a straightforward walk up, maybe twenty minutes from the road if you're reasonably fit. The gradient isn't brutal, but the ground can be boggy after rain. You'll get proper views of the surrounding countryside - the kind that justify a detour if you're already exploring the Shropshire Hills. History enthusiasts will find the earthworks genuinely interesting, even if they're not as dramatic as some Iron Age sites. Kids under ten might find the walk tedious without a proper narrative about ancient warriors to keep them engaged.

The real value is as a stop between other attractions rather than a destination in itself. You could easily combine it with a walk around the broader landscape - there are decent trails in the area. Being free and unmanaged, there's no visitor centre or facilities, so come prepared for weather. The nearby glamping sites at Shropshire Hills and Shropshire Luxury Glamping make good bases if you're taking a longer look at the region's archaeology and walking routes. Allow an hour total including the walk and a poke around the mound itself.