Sibden Hill

Standing at 124 metres above sea level, this unassuming hill offers one of the best panoramic views on the Isle of Wight without the crowds that plague other viewpoints. The walk up from Shanklin takes about 20 minutes through fairly gentle terrain, though the final push gets your heart rate up a bit. Worth every step though - on a clear day you can see right across the Solent to the mainland and get cracking views of the island's southern coastline.

Walkers will love this spot as part of a longer ramble, while families with older children (say 8+) will manage the ascent without too much whinging. The summit itself is fairly modest - no dramatic cliff edges or facilities, just proper countryside views and a good excuse to catch your breath. Early morning or late afternoon light makes for the best photos, and it's completely free to access.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks around Shanklin like Parkdean's Lower Hyde or Landguard, this makes for a lovely morning walk before the beach. The hill sits conveniently close to several caravan parks including Ninham Country Holidays and Appuldurcombe Gardens, so it's an easy addition to any Isle of Wight break. Just don't expect mountain drama - this is gentle English countryside at its most understated.