Shorne Hill

You don't get much of a hill in Essex, so Shorne Hill stands out precisely because it doesn't. That said, the walk up is proper rewarding. This modest Essex peak sits east of Tilbury and offers one of the better vantage points across the Thames estuary if you catch it on a clear day. The views aren't dramatic - this isn't the Lake District - but they're wide and genuinely pleasant, sweeping across the water towards Kent.

It's the kind of walk that suits families who want something short and achievable, or anyone doing a longer ramble through the area. Nothing too strenuous, though the final push to the top does have a decent gradient. Allow 45 minutes to an hour if you're taking your time and stopping to look around. There's no visitor centre or facilities at the summit itself, so come prepared with water and a packed lunch if you're making an afternoon of it.

If you're camping at either Thamesview or Badgells Wood - both excellent bases nearby - this makes an easy morning outing before heading elsewhere. It's free to access, which is always welcome. The real appeal is the walk itself and those open estuary views rather than anything to find at the top. Perfect if you want to stretch your legs without committing to a full day hike. Go when the wind isn't too fierce and visibility is decent, otherwise you're just climbing for climbing's sake.