Yr Allt

Yr Allt rises sharply above the tiny settlement of Road in Powys, a proper hill rather than a mountain but one that rewards the effort. The walk up is steep and direct - no messing about with switchbacks or leisurely gradients. From the summit you get sprawling views across Mid Wales, all rolling moorland and distant ridges that shift colour depending on the light. On a clear day it's genuinely striking; on a grey one it's a bit forgettable, if I'm honest.

This is walker territory, full stop. Not a spot for the casual Sunday stroller expecting soft paths and benches. The terrain is rough underfoot and the ascent won't take long - forty minutes up, thereabouts - but it's unrelenting. Kids who like a proper challenge will get something out of it; those after an easy ramble will find it annoying.

No visitor facilities here, no cafe or car park attendant. You park where you can near Road and start climbing. It's free, obviously. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip if you want time to stand around taking in the view and catching your breath.

If you're based at one of the nearby holiday parks - Presteigne is closest at just over five miles away - Yr Allt makes a decent half-day outing, something to stretch the legs before heading back for lunch. Pair it with other walks in the area for a proper walking holiday. It's not spectacular enough to plan your whole trip around, but it's the sort of ascent that reminds you why you came to Mid Wales in the first place.