Vicars Hill

Getting to the top requires a proper walk through heathland and woodland, but Vicars Hill delivers one of the finest panoramic views across the New Forest. At 176 metres, it's hardly Everest, but the climb through gorse and bracken feels satisfying enough when you reach the summit cairn.

Families with older children will manage the ascent easily, though toddlers might flag halfway up the steeper sections. The reward is a sweeping vista that takes in the forest canopy, distant downland, and on clear days, glimpses of the Solent. Bring a map - it's brilliant fun trying to pick out landmarks from up here.

Walkers tend to approach from Brockenhurst, following well-marked footpaths that weave through typical New Forest terrain. Allow two hours for the round trip if you're taking it steady, though keen hikers could knock it off in half that time. The summit itself is quite exposed, so wrap up on windy days.

This makes a cracking addition to a New Forest camping trip. Most of the nearby sites like Roundhill and Hollands Wood put you within easy striking distance for a morning hike. The hill works particularly well as part of a longer circular walk, linking up with other forest paths to create a proper day out in this corner of Hampshire.