Jack Straw's Hill

You won't find crowds at Jack Straw's Hill, which is rather the point. This modest peak sits just inland from Hayle on Cornwall's north coast, offering one of those walks that feels properly local - the sort of place where you see more cows than caravans. The climb takes about twenty minutes from the nearest car park, and the reward is a panoramic sweep across Hayle Bay and inland across the farmland that dominates this part of the county. On a clear day you can pick out St Ives further along the coast. It's not dramatic in the way Bedruthan Steps or Tintagel are, but that's exactly why it works so well as a break from the tourist trail.

This is a walker's spot rather than a destination in itself. You're looking at an hour, tops, including the ascent and a proper look around at the top. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might struggle with the final push unless they're properly motivated. The real draw is combining it with the holiday parks clustered around Hayle - Haven Riviere Sands and Higher Trevaskis are within easy reach - and using it as a morning constitutional before heading to the beaches or tackling the coastal path proper.

Wear proper shoes; the ground gets muddy and the route isn't signposted to death. No facilities at the top, so bring water. Spring and autumn are best for walking - summer crowds tend to stay beachside, which leaves the hilltop feeling delightfully peaceful. Free, naturally. Good value for the effort.