Ridgeway Hill

Standing 281 metres above the Dorset coastline, this windswept hill offers some of the finest panoramic views along the Jurassic Coast. The summit provides a proper workout for the legs, but the reward is spectacular - on clear days you can see right across to Portland Bill and along the sweeping curve of Chesil Beach.

Walkers will love the challenge of reaching the top via the South West Coast Path, though it's a fairly steep climb that'll leave you puffing. Families with older children who don't mind a bit of effort will find it well worth the slog. The hill sits just inland from Weymouth, making it an excellent escape from the seaside crowds when you fancy something more energetic.

There's no entrance fee since it's just open countryside, and you can tackle it any time of year. Allow a good hour or two for the round trip, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend admiring the views at the top. The grassy slopes can get pretty muddy after rain, so proper walking boots are essential.

If you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Weymouth Bay like Haven Weymouth Bay or Seaview, this makes a cracking day out when the beach starts to feel a bit samey. The contrast between seaside fun and proper hill walking gives everyone in the family something different to tackle.