Yarnbury

The walk up Yarnbury is steep enough to make your calves complain, but once you're standing on top of this Iron Age hill fort near Salisbury, you'll understand why ancient Britons bothered. The views across Wiltshire are proper expansive - chalk downland rolling away in all directions, with the spire of Salisbury Cathedral visible on a clear day like a distant needle pointing skyward.

There's not much left of the fort itself beyond the ramparts and ditches, which means you're really here for the views and the walk rather than any dramatic structures. That said, the earthworks are substantial enough to give you a real sense of scale - these people took their defensive positions seriously. The whole experience takes about an hour if you're not dawdling, longer if you want to sit about and admire the vista.

Walkers will get the most from this. Kids under ten might find the climb tedious, though older ones keen on history or a bit of a challenge will be fine. There's no café or visitor facilities up here, so pack a flask and a snack. Summer's the obvious choice, but late autumn can be cracking too - fewer people, golden light, and on a crisp day the visibility is unbeatable.

It works well as part of a broader Wiltshire walking holiday. Brades Acre Camp Site and Marshwood Farm Camping are both within easy striking distance, making this an accessible day out from a proper base. Combine it with walks across the Salisbury Plain or a trip down to nearby Stonehenge if you're in the mood for more chalk country rambling.