Mount Pleasant

Rising 423 feet above Bewdley, this modest hill delivers surprisingly good views across the Severn Valley without the crowds you'll find at the Malverns. The climb from town takes about 45 minutes through mixed woodland - not exactly gruelling but you'll feel it in your calves.

From the summit, you can pick out the meandering River Severn below and on clear days, the Welsh hills shimmer in the distance. It's particularly lovely in autumn when the surrounding woods turn bronze and gold. The path can get muddy after rain, so proper walking boots are essential.

Families with older children will manage the ascent fine, though toddlers might struggle with the steeper sections near the top. Dog walkers use it regularly - the woods are brilliant for letting spaniels charge about off-lead.

Allow two hours for the round trip if you want to linger at the summit. The walk links well with Bewdley's attractions, making it a decent half-day out. Several holiday parks dot the area, including Blackstone Meadow just half a mile away and Pinewood Retreat Glamping slightly further out, so it's handy for a morning stretch of the legs before heading back to base.