Long Hill

Long Hill rises out of the Powys landscape near Welshpool with the kind of understated presence that makes you wonder why more people don't make the effort. It's a proper peak walk rather than a gentle stroll, and the views across Mid Wales from the top absolutely justify the leg work.

The ascent takes a good hour or so depending on fitness and which approach you take. There's nothing technical about it - this is straightforward hill walking on farmland and moorland - but the gradient catches you out if you're not prepared for it. Once you're up there, you get those wide, rolling vistas that remind you why people bother with Wales at all. On a clear day you can see for miles. Bring a map though; it's easy to lose your bearings in the exposed sections.

This is one for walkers rather than families with young kids, unless you fancy carrying someone. Most people allow two to three hours for a round trip, and you'll want decent boots if the ground's been wet. There's no obvious visitor infrastructure - no tearoom, no car park, nothing really - which is either brilliant or annoying depending on your mood.

If you're based at one of the holiday parks dotted round Welshpool - Tanat, Valley View, or the others within five miles - Long Hill makes a solid day out when you want actual exercise rather than a circular stroll. It's close enough for a morning or afternoon excursion, and far enough up to feel like you've accomplished something.