Nature in the United Kingdom

Penlee Point

Penlee Point is a rocky headland at the southern tip of the Rame Peninsula in Cornwall, within the parish of Maker-with-Rame. It marks the Cornish side of the entrance to Plymouth Sound, facing Plymouth and the Devon shore. Do not confuse it with the Penlee Point near Mousehole in west Cornwall. This one sits on the South West Coast Path and works best as part of a walk through the nearby villages and old fortifications. What will you see at Penlee Point? The reward is the outlook across the bay, the harbour approaches to Plymouth and the Devon coastline. The headland itself is a steep, heathy slope above the sea, crossed by the coast path. Close to the point stands Queen Adelaide's Grotto, a stone structure with arched openings set high above the water. The arches were added to a cave that served as a lookout in the 1700s, and they commemorate the visit of Princess Adelaide in 1827. In the 1920s, Plymouth dockworkers used the grotto to watch for merchant ships. What is the history of the area? The headland had a defensive role. Penlee Battery nearby was begun in 1889, and by 1894 it carried three 6-inch and two 13.5-inch guns. It was disarmed in 1956 and the works were filled in during the 1970s. Today it is a nature reserve, reached by a short detour from the path. Offshore lie the two wreck sites of the Coronation, a 660-man warship that broke up in 1691 after its captain anchored off Penlee Point. Further along, at Pier Cove, is the Brennan torpedo station dating from 1888-9. The Royal Navy still uses it, so there is no public access. How do you get to Penlee Point? Two routes are the most popular. From Cawsand or Kingsand. A loop of about 3.6 miles leaves the twin villages on the east side of the peninsula and crosses heathland past forts and batteries. From Cawsand, you start in the Square, follow Pier Lane, then pick up the coast path to the grotto. From Cremyll via Mount Edgcumbe. The Cremyll Ferry runs from Plymouth to the Rame Peninsula. From the landing at Wilderness Point, follow the path signs through Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. The longer version to Rame Head is roughly 6.8 miles one way and takes about four hours. Paths are uneven and sometimes steep, so wear sturdy footwear. What else is nearby? Further west lies Rame Head, with the ruins of a 14th-century chapel of St Michael. You will also pass Polhawn Fort, now in private hands. Kingsand and Cawsand make a convenient stop before the return leg. When should you go? Choose a clear day, when visibility is good and the whole of Plymouth Sound is laid out below. The exposed cliff top can be windy, so pack a windproof layer. Before travelling, check the current ferry timetable and fare, and any path closures, on the South West Coast Path website. Frequently asked questions Is this the same Penlee Point as the one near Mousehole? No. Several places in Cornwall share the name. This one is on the Rame Peninsula, at the entrance to Plymouth Sound. Can you visit Queen Adelaide's Grotto? The grotto stands beside the coast path and is one of the stops on the walks from Cawsand and from Mount Edgcumbe. How long is the walk from Cawsand? The Kingsand, Cawsand and Penlee Point loop is about 3.6 miles. The longer route from Cremyll to Rame Head takes around four hours one way. Can you visit the torpedo station at Pier Cove? No. The Royal Navy still uses the site and it is closed to the public.

Dumbarton Rock

Dumbarton

Dumbarton Rock in Dumbarton is a basalt volcanic plug standing about 73 m high where the River Leven meets the Clyde. Dumbarton Castle crowns its twin summits and is regarded as the stronghold with the longest recorded history in Scotland. It is managed by Historic Environment Scotland. What will you see at Dumbarton Rock? The rock has two peaks, White Tower Crag and the Beacon, linked by a steep stairway. On the way up you pass walls, gateways and the remains of old buildings. In the saddle between the summits sits an 18th-century Georgian guardhouse, and gun batteries and former storehouses survive elsewhere in the fortress. From the top you look across the wide Clyde estuary, the town of Dumbarton, the hills towards Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and the shipyards on the far bank. On a clear day the view stretches towards Glasgow. Why does this place matter? Its Brythonic name was Alt Clut, "rock of the Clyde", which gave its name to a kingdom that later became Strathclyde. King Rhydderch Hael ruled from here in the late 6th century, and Bede mentions the stronghold in a work completed in 731. In 871 the Dublin Norse leaders Amlaíb and Ímar besieged the rock; after about four months they took and sacked it, hastening the decline of the old royal centre. In later centuries it served as a royal castle. William Wallace was held here in 1305 before being sent to London for trial. In 1548 the five-year-old Mary, Queen of Scots, sailed for France from Dumbarton. The defences were developed further in the modern era, and a garrison stayed on until the 20th century. How do you get there? Dumbarton lies roughly 25 km west of Glasgow. Trains run from Glasgow Queen Street and Central to Dumbarton East, a short walk from the entrance. By car, follow the A82 or A814 into Dumbarton; a small car park is near the gate. When should you visit, and what does it cost? From 1 April to 30 September the castle opens daily, 9.30am to 5pm (last entry 4.15pm). From October to late December it runs shorter hours: Monday to Wednesday and weekends, 10am to 4pm, last entry 3.15pm. It is closed over the New Year break. Hours and ticket prices change, so check the Historic Environment Scotland website before you travel. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours. The steps are steep and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes; visitors with limited mobility will not be able to reach both summits. Late afternoon gives the best light for photos, and the weather on the Clyde turns quickly, so bring a windproof layer. Frequently asked questions Is there an admission charge for Dumbarton Castle? Yes, entry is ticketed. Current prices are listed by Historic Environment Scotland. How tall is the rock? About 73 m (240 ft). It is a basalt volcanic plug, left over from ancient volcanic activity. Can you visit in winter? Yes, but only on certain days and with shorter hours. The castle is closed over the festive period. Is it good for families? Children tend to enjoy the stairs and cannons, but the steps are steep and need care, and pushchairs cannot be taken to the summits.

Killigerran Head

Bohortha

Killigerran Head is a coastal headland on the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall, close to the hamlet of Bohortha. It sits near Towan Beach and Porth, and most people reach it on a clifftop walk. The coordinates are roughly 50.152 N, 4.982 W. What will you see at Killigerran Head? The headland shows off classic Cornish coast: steep slopes fall away to the sea and the path runs across open ground with wide views over the water. A wooden lookout post stands along the way, and walkers use it to watch seabirds such as shags and fulmars. Nearby routes also pass Porthmellin Head and Porthbeor Beach, so a single outing can take in several small coves and points. How do you get to Killigerran Head? There is no road to the headland, so you walk. The simplest option is the National Trust circuit from Porth car park. It covers about 3 miles (4.8 km) and takes around 1 hour 45 minutes. The route passes Towan Beach, climbs onto the headland, then returns across fields and a lane through Bohortha. For a longer day, a Roseland loop of about 5.8 miles (9.4 km) with some 320 m of ascent takes around three hours. Other walks that go past the headland head towards St Anthony Head, or run from Treloan via Porthbeor Beach and back to Towan. What are the paths like, and what should you bring? Paths cross coastal grass, farmland and woodland, and they get muddy after rain, so wear shoes with a solid grip. Expect gates, stiles and some steps. Dogs are welcome on the National Trust walk. On the exposed cliff it feels noticeably cooler than inland, so a windproof layer helps. When should you go? The walk works all year when the weather allows. Summer gives drier paths and long daylight, while the quieter months bring fewer walkers. Pick a clear day, since the views over the sea and cliffs are the main reason to come. Frequently asked questions Is there an entry fee for Killigerran Head? Walking the path needs no ticket. You may have to pay for parking at Porth. How long does the walk take? The shorter National Trust circuit takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The longer Roseland loop takes around 3 hours. Can I bring a dog? Yes, the National Trust circuit from Porth is listed as dog friendly. Watch for livestock in the fields and keep to the gates and marked paths. Where is the nearest beach? Towan Beach lies right beside the route and makes a natural rest stop. Porthbeor Beach is also close by.

Castle Ewen

Castle Ewen is a basalt rock tower rising out of the Fairy Glen, close to the village of Uig on the Trotternish peninsula of the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Its steep sides and flat top give it the profile of a fortress, but it is a natural landform, not a building. It is the focal point of a small valley of grassy cones and tiny lochans that draws photographers and walkers all year. What exactly is Castle Ewen? The name is misleading. There are no medieval walls or ruins here. The rock stands up from the glen floor, and its sheer faces make it read as a castle from a distance. Geologists link the glen's odd terrain to the landslips and volcanic rock typical of Trotternish, while local storytelling credits the fairies. The strange, knobbly landscape around it makes that tale easy to believe. How do you get to the Fairy Glen? The glen lies a few kilometres from Uig, the ferry village on the northwest side of the peninsula. Leave the A87 onto the single-track road signed towards Balnaknock and drive roughly 2 km to where the glen opens out. No public bus goes directly to the glen, so most visitors come by car or bike. Parking is very limited. Early mornings are easier, and by midday cars line the verges. Leave the passing places clear and do not block gateways to private land. How hard is the climb? The route up starts at the back of the rock. It is short, but you will use your hands in places: there are cut steps in the stone and a narrow gap leading onto the summit platform. Route data suggest a gain of only a few dozen metres from the car park, so the ascent takes a few minutes. The stone gets slippery in rain, so wear shoes with good grip. From the top you look over the green mounds of the glen and the moorland beyond. What else is nearby? The stone spirals that visitors build in the glen. Please do not add new ones, as they change the landscape. Small ponds between the hillocks, good for photos in low sun. Duntulm Castle ruins and the Quiraing cliffs, each under an hour away by car. When is the best time to visit? Light is best at sunrise and in the hour before sunset, and crowds are thinnest then. In summer the glen is busiest around midday. One to two hours is enough for the rock and a loop of the valley. Skye weather turns quickly, so pack a waterproof. Frequently asked questions Is Castle Ewen a real castle? No. It is a natural rock formation shaped like a tower. Is the climb difficult? It is short but needs a bit of scrambling and can be slick when wet. Anyone nervous about heights or with small children should take care. How long should I allow for the Fairy Glen? Usually one to two hours, including the rock and a walk around the valley. Is there an entry fee? Sources disagree about parking charges, so check the signs on arrival. The glen sits on land where locals live and farm, so respect their property and take your litter home.

Cavern Cascade

Cavern Cascade is a waterfall and a romantic, partly man-made grotto on the Hafod estate in Ceredigion, mid Wales. It belongs to the landscape that Thomas Johnes laid out in the late 18th century for visitors who loved picturesque scenery. Welsh heritage records list it as a post-medieval folly, and it also appears under the name Hafod Uchtryd Cavern Cascade. What is Cavern Cascade? The effect was staged like a piece of theatre. A mining-style adit was driven through the rock below the falls, forming a grotto, so walkers watch the stream tumble past from inside the cliff. Such tricks suited an age that treated wild nature as art and routed its walks to deliver surprises. A local name for the spot, Lefel Lampwll, refers to the level, or adit, which fits the tunnel's origins. Where is it? The cascade lies roughly 1.5 km from the site of Hafod mansion, deep in a wooded valley. The nearest village with visitor facilities is Devil's Bridge (Pontarfynach), a few kilometres away. Coordinates are about 52.339 N, 3.800 W. What else is nearby? The Hafod estate is known for woodland walking routes that follow paths first laid out in Johnes's day. A walk to the cascade combines easily with other viewpoints and traces of the old estate. Devil's Bridge itself is known for three bridges stacked one above another across a waterfall gorge. When should you visit? Spring, early summer and the days after rain show the stream at its fullest. Forest paths can be muddy, so wear proper walking boots. In winter the days are short and stone steps may be slippery. How should you prepare? Carry a map or offline route, as phone signal in the valley can be poor. Check current access information for the estate's trails before you travel. Frequently asked questions Is Cavern Cascade a natural waterfall? The stream is natural, but it was built into a designed scene. The grotto exists because of a tunnel cut through the rock, so the site mixes nature with 18th-century landscape design. Which region is it in? It is in Ceredigion, mid Wales, on the Hafod estate near Devil's Bridge. Is the site protected? Yes, it is recorded in Welsh heritage registers as a post-medieval folly associated with Hafod. Is it easy to reach? You need to walk about 1.5 km along woodland paths from the old mansion area. The route is not suited to wheelchairs or pushchairs and can be hard going after rain.

Canonteign Falls

Teignbridge

Canonteign Falls is a waterfall park in the Teign Valley, set in the historic tything of Canonteign between Chudleigh and Christow in Devon. It lies within Dartmoor National Park in South West England. Its headline feature is Lady Exmouth Falls, billed as the tallest man-made waterfall in England. What is there to see at Canonteign Falls? Lady Exmouth Falls drops roughly 66 to 70 metres, depending on the source, down a rock face hidden among trees. Nature did not make it. It was created around 1890 on the initiative of Lady Exmouth, and the labour came from miners who had been left jobless when the estate's silver mines closed. They diverted water from an existing leat, once used by the sawmill and the mines, onto the rocky outcrop. The grounds also hold natural cascades, including Clampitt Falls, which you pass on the way up. In all, the estate covers about 90 acres of parkland and ancient woodland, with lakes, footpaths and a fern garden. What is the walk like? Paths run through the woods and around the lakes. The lakeside routes are gentle and suit most visitors. Reaching the top of the falls means climbing some 90 original Victorian steps that wind through the fern garden. That section is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. Wheelchair users and their carers get free entry. How do you get there? The address is Christow, near Exeter, EX6 7RH. The park sits in the Teign Valley close to Chudleigh, and driving is the simplest way to reach it. When should you visit? The park is seasonal. In season it opens daily, normally from 10:00 to 16:00, with longer hours until 17:00 on bank holiday weekends and during school holidays. It usually shuts for winter, and heavy rain can mean an early close. Check the official website before you set off, or ring 01647 252434 for same-day updates. Ticket prices vary between listings, so confirm them in advance. Beside the lake, Canonteign Kitchen serves a seasonal menu, Devon cream teas, cakes, barista coffee and a children's menu. You may picnic anywhere on the estate. Dogs are welcome on leads at no extra charge. Frequently asked questions How tall is Lady Exmouth Falls? Around 66 to 70 metres, depending on the source. It is promoted as England's tallest man-made waterfall. Are the waterfalls natural? Lady Exmouth Falls was built by people around 1890. The grounds also contain natural cascades. Can children climb to the top? Yes, though the route uses steep steps and no pushchairs can manage it. The paths around the lakes are easy going. Can I bring my dog? Yes. Dogs on leads are welcome and there is no extra fee.

Seven Sisters

Wealden

Seven Sisters is a stretch of chalk sea cliffs on the East Sussex coast in southern England, in the Wealden district and inside the South Downs National Park. Between Seaford Head and Birling Gap the coastline rises and dips in seven rounded summits, forming a regular wave when seen from a distance. Many visitors begin their walk at Cuckmere Haven, where the River Cuckmere meets the sea inside Seven Sisters Country Park. What will you see at the Seven Sisters? White cliffs drop straight into the English Channel, with the grassy slopes of the South Downs behind them. The beach at Cuckmere Haven, reached by a path along the river, gives the best view of the whole row. Birling Gap, the lowest point on this stretch, has a National Trust site with an information point, public toilets and a cafe. A little further on, Belle Tout lighthouse stands on higher ground. How do you get to Seven Sisters Country Park? The park lies on the road between Seaford and Eastbourne. There are two pay and display car parks. At weekends, bank holidays and in peak season they fill fast, and nearby alternatives are very limited. On those days a 3 m height barrier operates, and coaches cannot park at weekends, on bank holidays or in July and August. Buses 12, 12A and 12X link Brighton, Seaford and Eastbourne and stop at the visitor centre, so you can connect with trains at Seaford, Brighton or Eastbourne. From April to October a seasonal service, the 47, runs at weekends and bank holidays to Berwick station, Alfriston and Seaford. Which walk should you pick? Short stroll: about 2 miles (an hour) from the Exceat bus stop. Birling Gap loop: about 3.7 miles, 2.5 hours, moderate. Country Park circuit: around 12 km, 3 to 4 hours. Seaford to Eastbourne: about 21 km one way, with roughly 500 m of total climbing. From the visitor centre to Birling Gap takes around two hours on foot. When should you go, and what should you bring? The cliffs are exposed to wind off the sea, and paths turn slippery and muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes and carry a warm layer. The route runs along high drops, so stay on the marked paths and keep back from the edge. Weekends and summer bring crowds, and car parks can be full before midday. The visitor centre normally opens daily from 10am to 5pm (4pm from November to April), except 25 December, but check the park's website for the current status before you set out. Frequently asked questions How long do you need at the Seven Sisters? A short stroll takes an hour, the Birling Gap loop about 2.5 hours, and the full Seaford to Eastbourne route is a day's walk. Where is the best place to start? Seven Sisters Country Park at Exceat, or Birling Gap, where you will find toilets and a cafe. Can you get there without a car? Yes. Buses 12, 12A and 12X stop at the visitor centre and connect with trains at Seaford, Brighton and Eastbourne. Is the walk hard? The shorter routes are moderate but hilly. The full Seaford to Eastbourne crossing demands the most effort.

Parliament Hill

Londyn

Parliament Hill in London is a grassy rise at the south-eastern corner of Hampstead Heath, in the north of the city. At roughly 98 metres, it ranks among the best free viewpoints over the capital's skyline. It is not the Parliament Hill in Ottawa, which hosts Canada's legislature. What can you see from the top? The summit looks south across central London. On a clear day you can pick out St Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Shard, the towers of Canary Wharf and the Palace of Westminster. Parliament sits about 10 km away, and newer buildings in the foreground now hide part of it. The panorama has legal protection, and a plaque at the top labels the landmarks so you can match each outline to its name. Where does the name come from? The usual explanation points to the English Civil War, when Parliamentarian troops are said to have held the hill, though the origin is contested. An older name, Traitors' Hill, comes from a legend that Gunpowder Plot conspirators in 1605 planned to watch Parliament blow up from here. Historians regard that story as doubtful. The land belonged to a manor granted by Henry I in 1133. It was bought for public use in 1888 for £300,000 and joined to the Heath. Cattle grazed it until the 1940s, and the City of London Corporation has looked after it since 1989. How do you get to Parliament Hill? The simplest route is London Overground to Gospel Oak, on the south-east side of the park. From there the walk up takes about fifteen minutes. You can also use Hampstead Heath station on the opposite south-western edge, or take the Northern line to Kentish Town, Belsize Park, Hampstead or Golders Green and walk in. Buses 24, 46 and C11 stop near the southern entrance. The Parliament Hill Café at the foot of the slope makes a handy meeting point. What else is there to do nearby? The hill is a classic spot for flying kites, a habit said to go back to the 17th century, and breezy days draw families with colourful kites. Parliament Hill Fields below has a café and an open-air lido, and paths lead on to the Highgate ponds and deeper into the Heath. Entry is free, and the climb is a gentle grass slope with no difficult sections. When is the best time to visit? Pick a clear day for the sharpest view. Sunset, when lights come on in the towers, is among the most photogenic moments in London. Summer weekends bring picnickers, so if you prefer quiet, go on a weekday morning. In winter dress warmly, as the top can be windy. Frequently asked questions Is Parliament Hill free to visit? Yes. It is open parkland within Hampstead Heath, with no ticket needed. How long is the walk from Gospel Oak station? About 15 minutes at an easy pace. Which landmarks are visible? St Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Shard, Canary Wharf and the Palace of Westminster. Is it the same as Parliament Hill in Ottawa? No. The London hill is a park viewpoint, while the Canadian one is the site of the country's parliament buildings.

Corrachadh Mòr

Corrachadh Mòr is a headland on the Ardnamurchan peninsula in Lochaber, in the Scottish Highlands. By modern measurements it is the westernmost point of land on the island of Great Britain. There is no viewing car park or signed path here, but you get a wild, open stretch of coast facing the Atlantic. What makes Corrachadh Mòr special? For a long time, the nearby Ardnamurchan Point, famous for its lighthouse, was taken to be Britain's western tip. More precise coordinates showed that Corrachadh Mòr sits a few tens of metres further west. Sources quote slightly different figures, generally somewhere around 30 to 45 metres, depending on the reference system used. It lies roughly 36 to 37 km west of Land's End in Cornwall, which makes it the western limit of the whole island, not just of Scotland. Where is it? The headland is at the far end of the Ardnamurchan peninsula, about a kilometre south of Ardnamurchan Point lighthouse. Its coordinates are approximately 56.716° N, 6.228° W. The nearest village of any size is Kilchoan, from where a narrow road runs west towards the lighthouse. The terrain is moorland, bare rock and small inlets. How do you get there? Most visitors start at Ardnamurchan Point lighthouse, which can be reached by car. From there it is a walk across open ground. Walkers describe the ground as rocky and boggy in places, with no clear path. Some visitors only look at the headland from a distance, since crossing the uneven terrain takes time and sturdy footwear. Take a map or GPS, as landmarks are scarce. What will you see? Corrachadh Mòr is a geographical point, not a developed attraction. The reward is the view over the open Atlantic and along the Ardnamurchan coast. In clear weather the islands of the Hebrides show on the horizon. There is no monument or plaque, so many people simply photograph a GPS reading. When should you visit? Choose a day without heavy rain or strong wind: the ground is exposed, and wet weather makes the boggy sections worse. Long summer days leave plenty of daylight for the return. Winter brings short days and tougher conditions. Frequently asked questions Is Corrachadh Mòr really the westernmost point of Great Britain? Yes, for the main island. It lies several tens of metres west of Ardnamurchan Point, which was once considered the western extreme. Can I drive there? Not to the headland itself. You can drive to the area of Ardnamurchan Point lighthouse, and the rest is on foot. Is there a marked trail? No. The route crosses open, rocky and sometimes muddy ground, so you need solid boots and some navigation skill. Where is the nearest village? Kilchoan, on the southern coast of the Ardnamurchan peninsula.

Point of Stoer

Culkein

Point of Stoer is a rugged headland on Scotland's north-west coast, beside the crofting village of Culkein in Assynt (Sutherland, Highlands). Stoer Head Lighthouse stands at its tip, and a short way offshore rises the sea stack known as the Old Man of Stoer. It makes one of the most rewarding clifftop walks in this part of the Highlands. What will you see at Point of Stoer? The headline sight is the Old Man of Stoer, a sea stack of Torridonian sandstone around 60 m tall, cut off from the mainland by the Atlantic. It sits just south of the point itself and is easy to view from the cliff edge. Climbers first scaled it in 1966, and it remains a target for experienced teams, who have to contend with frequent strong winds. The lighthouse dates from 1870 and was designed by David and Thomas Stevenson, part of the family of engineers who built most of Scotland's lights for the Northern Lighthouse Board. Everything had to arrive by sea, so a jetty was built to land stone and supplies. A principal keeper and an assistant lived on site until automation in 1978; today the light is monitored from Edinburgh. The tower is about 14 m high. The cliffs also hold seabird colonies. Fulmars nest on the stack and nearby ledges, so bring binoculars in spring and summer. How do you get to Point of Stoer? The walk begins at the car park by the lighthouse, near Culkein (roughly 58.25 N, 5.35 W). From there a path follows the cliff tops towards the point and the Old Man. The popular circuit covers about 4.5 miles (7 km) with some 270 m of ascent and takes around three hours. Route guides grade it easy, yet the ground is rough and the path faint in places, so some navigation skill helps. Some walkers return over Sidhean Mor, which gives a view across the whole peninsula. Keep well back from the edge: the turf can be wet and the wind strong. When is the best time to visit? Pick a clear day between late spring and early autumn, when daylight is long and the birds are present. In winter the coast takes a battering from storm-force seas and the weather turns quickly. Wear windproof layers and sturdy boots whatever the forecast says. What else is nearby? The Stoer peninsula has sandy coves and views towards the Assynt hills and the Minch. Lochinver, the nearest larger village, has food and accommodation. Frequently asked questions Is there an entry fee for Point of Stoer? No. The headland and path are open access, and the car park sits at the start of the route. Can you go inside the lighthouse? It is automated and run by the Northern Lighthouse Board. The tower is mainly a landmark; the real draw is the clifftop walk. How long does the walk take? About three hours for the loop including the Old Man of Stoer, allowing for photo and birdwatching stops. Is it suitable for children? The route is rated easy, but the cliffs are exposed and the ground uneven, so keep children close.

Old John

Charnwood

Old John is a hill crowned by a small Gothic-style tower in Bradgate Park, in the Charnwood district of Leicestershire. At 212 metres, it is the park's highest point and gives the widest outlook over the area. The tower is a landmark you can pick out from far across Leicestershire. What is Old John? Old John sits on the southern edge of Charnwood Forest. The name covers both the hill and the structure on top: a round, two-storey tower built in the 1780s on the site of an earlier windmill. Sources disagree on the exact year, quoting anything from 1784 to 1787. It is a folly, an ornamental landscape building created to give the park a focal point and a place from which to enjoy the views. Historic England protects it as a Grade II listed building. Where does the name come from? A local legend tells of Old John, a beer-loving retainer of the estate who supposedly died at a bonfire lit to celebrate the heir's coming of age. It remains a story only, since a map from 1745 already labels the hill with that name, decades before the tower. In the 19th century the hill also served as a vantage point over a horse-racing course laid out by the seventh earl. What will you see at the top? A broad panorama over the park, Charnwood Forest and the Leicester area A toposcope beside the tower, donated by the people of Newtown Linford in 1953 Deer roaming freely across the park grounds How do you get there? Park at the main entrance in Newtown Linford, in front of the park gates. Parking is paid and tends to fill up at weekends and in school holidays. From there you walk up through the park over grassy, sometimes steep and uneven slopes. The ruins of Bradgate House lie roughly three-quarters of a mile from the car park, and the tower is further and higher. Bus 120 also serves Newtown Linford. Wear sturdy shoes, as the grass can be slippery after rain. When should you visit? The park can be visited all year. Views are best in clear weather, and spring and autumn make for a more pleasant walk than crowded summer weekends. Gate times vary between sources, so check the Bradgate Park Trust website before you travel. Frequently asked questions Can you go inside the tower? The tower is mainly a historic landmark, and the real draw is the view from the hilltop around it. How long is the walk from the car park? Most walkers need a few dozen minutes each way, depending on pace and chosen path. Is there an entry fee? Walking into the park is free; you pay for parking. Is it suitable for families? Yes, but the climb is steep, so go slowly with children. Reaching the summit with a pushchair or wheelchair is difficult.

Melincourt Falls

Resolven

Melincourt Falls is a waterfall of roughly 24 m (80 ft) near Resolven in Neath Port Talbot, south Wales. The brook drops over a rock ledge in a steep, wooded gorge that now forms a small nature reserve. Where are Melincourt Falls? The falls lie about 1.6 km south of the village of Resolven, in the Neath valley (Afon Nedd). They are fed by Melin Court Brook, a left-bank tributary of the river. The Welsh spelling is Melincwrt. Some people count them as part of Waterfall Country, although most of that area's falls sit several miles to the north-east, at the head of the Vale of Neath. What will you see? The brook plunges over a resistant band of Lower Pennant Sandstone. The result is one tall, striking drop, and after heavy rain the flow becomes noticeably more powerful. The reserve covers about 13 acres (5.3 ha) and is looked after by the Welsh Wildlife Trust (Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales). Dense woodland surrounds the site, and the path runs close to the water. Visitors have been coming for at least two centuries. J. M. W. Turner is known to have painted the falls in 1794, which gave the regional Turner Trail its name. How do you get there? A free car park run by Neath Port Talbot council sits beside the B4434, opposite the reserve entrance. From there it is about 600 m to the falls each way, usually 10 to 15 minutes on foot. The trust maintains the path, but it turns very muddy after rain, so wear walking boots or wellies. Entry to the reserve is free. There are no toilets or cafes at the falls; the nearest shops and food are in Resolven. Want a longer outing? The Turner Trail loop is about 8 km (5 miles) and starts at Aberdulais, while shorter circular routes from Resolven cover around 6 km. When is the best time to visit? The falls look best after rainfall, which usually means autumn, winter and spring. In summer the leaf cover gives shade, though the flow can be thinner. Paths in the reserve have recently been closed because of undercut banks and fallen trees. Check the Welsh Wildlife Trust or Neath Port Talbot council pages before you set out. Frequently asked questions How high are Melincourt Falls? About 24 m (80 ft). Is there an entrance fee? No. The reserve is free to enter, and so is the car park on the B4434. How long should I allow? The walk takes 10 to 15 minutes each way, so about an hour covers a visit. With a longer ramble nearby, plan half a day. Are the falls part of Waterfall Country? Some count them as such, but the main Waterfall Country falls are a few miles further north-east. Is access always open? Not always. The trust has closed the paths for safety reasons, so check its website before you travel.

Friars' Crag

Keswick

Friars' Crag is a rocky headland reaching into Derwentwater just outside Keswick, in the Lake District, Cumbria. Few viewpoints in the national park pay off so much for so little effort: a gentle lakeside stroll ends with a sweep of water, wooded islands and the fells of Borrowdale. The land is looked after by the National Trust, which secured it for public use in the 1920s. What is Friars' Crag and why visit? The crag juts out into the lake and opens up a wide outlook towards the islands and the hills that frame the Borrowdale valley. There is no climbing and no need to plan a full day around it. You simply walk to the end, stand beside the water under old trees, and take it in. It suits families, older visitors and anyone with only a couple of hours in Keswick. How do you get to Friars' Crag? From the middle of Keswick it is roughly half a mile (about 800 m) to the crag, following an easy path down towards the lake and the landing stages where the passenger launches depart. If you start from the National Trust lakeside car park, the route is flat and level, around 15 minutes each way. The path runs along the shore, so ordinary comfortable shoes are enough. What can you see there? The Ruskin memorial. A slate monument stands among the trees on the crag, dedicated to the writer, thinker and painter John Ruskin. He regarded the view from this spot as his earliest memory. The memorial is a Grade II listed structure. The Rawnsley plaque. A plaque set into a wall beside the approach path remembers Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley, one of the three main founders of the National Trust. The crag was bought with money raised by public subscription in his memory and handed to the Trust in 1922. Views over Derwentwater. From the tip you look across open water, small islands and the surrounding summits, a favourite composition for photographers. When is the best time to go? The headland is open all year. Sunrise and sunset give the most striking photographs, when low light picks out the shapes of the hills. Summer afternoons are the busiest, so choose early morning if you want quiet. The National Trust also runs evening stargazing walks that start from the lakeside car park. What else is nearby? It is easy to combine the crag with other Keswick outings. Castlehead offers a short, easy walk with views over the lake, and the landing stages let you hop on a launch for a cruise around Derwentwater. Keen walkers can circle the entire lake, a route that guides put at between 8 and 10 miles. Frequently asked questions How long should I allow for Friars' Crag? The walk from the lakeside car park takes about 15 minutes one way, so an hour is plenty including time at the viewpoint. Is there an entrance fee? No. The crag is open National Trust land and needs no ticket, although parking nearby may be charged. Is it suitable for children and less mobile visitors? The path is short and flat, making it one of the easiest outings on Derwentwater. The surface can be wet after rain. Who was John Ruskin? A Victorian writer, art critic and painter. The memorial on the crag recalls that the view from here was his first childhood memory.

Haytor Rocks

Teignbridge

Haytor Rocks is a granite tor on Dartmoor, in Devon's Teignbridge district, inside Dartmoor National Park. The twin outcrops crown a ridge at roughly 457 m (1,499 ft) above sea level, and the rock faces themselves stand up to about 15 m (50 ft) over the open grass and heather. It is among the most visited viewpoints in the South West, and it sits beside the remains of a remarkable stone-railed tramway. What will you see at Haytor Rocks? The rocks are the draw: huge weathered granite blocks that you can climb without any gear. Natural steps and cracks make the scramble manageable for most families, though the stone gets slippery when wet. From the top you look across Dartmoor's moorland, and on a clear day over the Teign valley towards the Devon coast. Abandoned quarries lie close by. Spoil heaps and cut stone are visible right next to the paths, a reminder that this hillside once supplied building granite. What was the Haytor Granite Tramway? George Templer, who owned the local quarries, built the Haytor Granite Tramway in 1820. It ran for about 8.5 miles (13.7 km) and dropped around 1,300 ft (400 m) on the way down. Instead of iron rails it used carefully cut granite blocks as the track, with teams of Shire horses pulling the wagons. Stone travelled down to a canal and onward to the coast. By around 1858 the quarries were no longer profitable, and both the workings and the tramway were abandoned. You can still follow the granite rails and points across the moor. The waymarked Templer Way, an 18-mile (29 km) trail, traces the old stone route from Haytor to Shaldon, across the water from Teignmouth. How do you get to Haytor Rocks? Most visitors arrive by car. There is parking on Haytor Down, and near the Haytor information centre (around grid reference SX 765772) you will find toilets and route information. Check current parking rules before you travel, as they vary by site. From the car park it is an easy, gently rising walk of 10 to 15 minutes across grass to the foot of the rocks. Which walk should you choose? Short stroll to the rocks: about 20 to 30 minutes each way, suitable for most people. Tramway walk: a loop of about 2.5 miles (4 km), roughly 1 hour 15 minutes, passing granite rails and quarry spoil. Longer circuit: about 5.9 miles (9.5 km), taking in other viewpoints and a wooded stretch through Yarner Woods. When is the best time to visit? Pick a clear day for far views and dry paths. Early morning and the hour before sunset give the best light on the granite and usually fewer people than summer weekends. The top is exposed and cloud can drop quickly, so bring a windproof layer and shoes with grip. Frequently asked questions Does it cost anything to visit Haytor Rocks? Access to the rocks and the open-moor paths is free. Charges, if any, apply to parking, so check on arrival. How long should I allow? An hour covers the climb to the rocks. The tramway walk takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, and a full outing on the longer circuit can fill half a day. Is the climb difficult? No climbing skill is needed, but watch for slick granite after rain and for drop-offs at the edges. What is the Templer Way? It is a roughly 29 km (18 mile) walking trail from Haytor to Shaldon that follows the old route used to carry quarried granite to the coast.

Portland Bill

Portland Bill is the narrow tip of the Isle of Portland in Dorset, England, and the county's southernmost point. It pushes out into the English Channel, and its red-and-white lighthouse is the landmark everyone photographs. It is one of the most visited spots on the Jurassic Coast. What is there to see at Portland Bill? The star attraction is the lighthouse, completed in 1906. The tower stands roughly 41 metres tall, and its red and white bands are visible from a long way off. A visitor centre next door explains how navigation worked along this stretch of coast and, on selected dates, offers a climb to the top. Close to the shore you will also find older, disused lighthouses. One of them houses a bird observatory, which makes the headland a good stop for birdwatchers, especially during spring and autumn migration. Along the cliff edge, look for Pulpit Rock, a ledge jutting over the sea, and a stone obelisk from the 19th century that once served sailors as a navigation marker. Why is this coast so dangerous? For centuries the waters off Portland Bill were notorious for shipwrecks. Shallow reefs, the Shambles sandbank and the strong tidal current known as the Portland Race all play a part, churning the sea just beyond the point. Even on a calm day you can watch the water boil and swirl from the shore. The rocks near the water are slippery, so stay on the paths and keep back from the edge in strong wind or heavy swell. How do you get to Portland Bill? The headland sits at the end of the main road running the length of the Isle of Portland, which is joined to the mainland by a causeway at Weymouth. Driving is the easiest option, with car parks close to the lighthouse. A local bus from Weymouth also makes the trip. It is a dozen or so kilometres from Weymouth, usually around half an hour. When is the best time to visit? Late spring, summer and early autumn bring long days and dry paths, and evenings can deliver a fine sunset over the Channel. In winter and during storms the point looks dramatic, but the wind can be fierce, so dress in layers and bring a windproof jacket. What else is nearby? Portland Bill lies within the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the point you can follow the clifftop path around the island, and nearby you will pass old quarries where the famous Portland stone was cut. Across the bay is Weymouth, with its beach and harbour. Frequently asked questions Can you go inside Portland Bill Lighthouse? Yes, guided climbs run on selected dates. Check times and availability at the visitor centre by the lighthouse. How long should I plan for a visit? One to two hours covers a walk around the point, photos and a short stroll along the cliffs. Add the visitor centre and a longer coastal walk and it becomes a half-day outing. Is it a good place for families? Yes, the area is open, and children usually enjoy the lighthouse and the views. Watch for slippery rocks near the water and strong wind at the cliff edge. Can you swim at Portland Bill? It is not recommended. Strong tidal currents and sandbanks make the water around the point dangerous. For a swim, choose the beach at Weymouth.

Chanonry Point

Rosemarkie

Chanonry Point is a slim spit of shingle reaching into the Moray Firth beside Rosemarkie, on the Black Isle in the Scottish Highlands. It has a reputation as one of the best places in Britain to watch dolphins from dry land, and a small lighthouse marks its tip. What will you see at Chanonry Point? The draw is the bottlenose dolphins that live in the Moray Firth. Here the channel pinches to roughly a kilometre, so the tidal flow pushes fish close to shore and the dolphins follow. Sometimes they surface only a few metres from the beach. Seals and seabirds are common sightings too. The lighthouse at the end of the point is the other landmark. From the shore you look across the water to Fort George on the far side, and on clear days the hills beyond. When should you come to see dolphins? Dolphins are present all year, but local guides rate May to August highest, when salmon and sea trout move through the firth. The state of the tide matters more than the month. Most sources advise arriving about an hour after low water, as the tide starts to rise. A few suggest the hour before high water, so check a tide table for Fortrose before you set out. Early mornings and weekdays are quieter. How do you get there and where do you park? The point lies between Fortrose and Rosemarkie, around 15 km from Inverness, reached by road across the Black Isle. The car park by the point has limited spaces and fills quickly on fine days. Charges apply in summer, and a shuttle bus links the point with both villages. Vehicles over 6 metres are not allowed in. Many visitors leave the car in Fortrose and walk, which takes about half an hour. What should you bring? The spit is exposed, so wind can bite even in summer. Pack a windproof jacket, sturdy shoes for the pebbles and binoculars. The viewing area is wheelchair accessible. Facilities at the point are minimal, so bring water and snacks. Cafes and shops are in Rosemarkie and Fortrose. Frequently asked questions Will you definitely see dolphins at Chanonry Point? There is no guarantee, but the odds are better here than almost anywhere on the coast. Plan around the tide and be patient, as sightings can be brief. How long should you allow? One to two hours is typical. If you are timing your visit to the tide and waiting for dolphins, allow more. Is there an entrance fee? The point itself is free to visit. Charges apply only to summer parking. Is it suitable for families? Yes. The ground is flat and the viewing area is accessible by wheelchair. Keep children away from the water's edge, where the current is strong. What else is nearby? Rosemarkie has a broad beach, and Fortrose has the ruins of a medieval cathedral. Inverness makes a good base.

King Henry VIII's Mound

Londyn

King Henry VIII's Mound in London is a raised viewpoint inside Richmond Park, in the borough of Richmond upon Thames. People walk up for one thing: looking east over the treeline to the distant dome of St Paul's Cathedral. The sightline is legally protected, so new buildings cannot block it. What is King Henry VIII's Mound? The mound sits in the largest of London's Royal Parks, which Charles I enclosed in the 17th century as a deer park. Today the park is a national nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation, and it is listed Grade I on Historic England's register of historic parks. The mound itself has been designated a scheduled monument by Historic England. Why the name, and how old is it? The popular story says Henry VIII stood here in 1536 waiting for a signal from the Tower of London that Anne Boleyn had been executed. Historians dispute it: according to the sources the king was in Wiltshire at the time. The earthwork is far older: heritage accounts describe it as a prehistoric round barrow dating from between 2400 and 1500 BC. A map of 1630 labels it "Kings Standinge", a stand used for watching deer hunts and falconry. What can you see from the top? East: the City skyline and the dome of St Paul's, seen through a clearing in the trees that is kept open on purpose. West: a broad outlook across the Thames Valley. All around: grassland and ancient oaks where herds of deer graze. How do you get there, and when should you go? The mound lies in the western part of Richmond Park, near Pembroke Lodge, on the path running from Richmond Gate. It is a walk of roughly a quarter of an hour from the gate. Clear weather matters, because haze or low cloud hides the dome. Mornings and crisp spring or autumn days give the best visibility. Pedestrians enter the park free of charge. Frequently asked questions Is King Henry VIII's Mound protected? Yes. The view of St Paul's is one of London's protected views, and the mound is a scheduled monument on Historic England's list. Did Henry VIII really stand here? It is a legend. Reliable accounts place the king elsewhere in 1536, and the mound predates his reign by thousands of years. Do I need to pay to visit? No. Richmond Park is free for people on foot, and the mound is inside it. What is visible to the west? The Thames Valley and open parkland, where deer are often spotted.

Combestone Tor

South Hams

Combestone Tor is a granite outcrop on Dartmoor in Devon, in the South Hams district, between the villages of Holne and Hexworthy. It stands 356 m (1,168 ft) above sea level and counts among the easiest tors in the national park to reach. If you want a proper Dartmoor panorama without a long hike, this is a rewarding stop. What will you see at Combestone Tor? The tor is a cluster of weathered granite blocks on the edge of open moorland. The main draw is the outlook east and downhill into the wooded gorge of the River Dart and the Dart Valley nature reserve. The river runs roughly 120 m (400 ft) below the rocks, and on a quiet day you can hear the water forcing its way through the narrow channel. When visibility is good, the view stretches north to Yar Tor and Bellever, and along the valley toward Dartmeet, where the East and West Dart meet. The rocks also make a handy lunch spot, with sheltered nooks out of the wind. How do you get to Combestone Tor? The tor sits beside the road linking Hexworthy with Venford Reservoir. A car park lies about 70 m from the top, across level ground. Without a car it is harder going, since public transport in this corner of Dartmoor is thin, so plan the journey in advance. Is there a longer walk that includes it? Yes, the tor is a natural waypoint on several circular routes. Hexworthy loop. The national park's own route is about 5 km (3 miles) and takes around 2.5 hours. It begins with a steep climb from Week Ford and joins the road near the top, where a short detour brings you to the rocks. Dartmeet loop. This walk climbs through woodland from the West Dart to the tor, returns past Venford Dam and drops back toward the river below Hexworthy. When the water is high, the stepping stones can be impassable, and you will need to retrace your steps to Dartmeet. When should you visit? Views are best in clear weather, ideally in the morning or in the hours before sunset, when low light brings out the texture of the granite. Heather blooms in late summer. Weather on Dartmoor turns quickly and the ridge can be breezy, so bring a windproof layer and sturdy footwear even for a short stroll. Frequently asked questions Is Combestone Tor easy to reach? Yes. From the roadside car park it is about 70 m over flat ground to the summit. How high is it? 356 m (1,168 ft) above sea level. Where exactly is it? On Dartmoor in Devon, near Holne and Hexworthy, above the River Dart valley. The coordinates are roughly 50.531 N, 3.878 W. How long should I allow? The tor itself takes 15 to 30 minutes. The full Hexworthy loop takes about 2.5 hours. Can you see Dartmeet from the tor? In good visibility, yes: the view runs along the Dart valley toward Dartmeet, with the hills to the north in the background.

Orrest Head

Bowness-on-Windermere

Orrest Head is a modest hill above Windermere, next to Bowness-on-Windermere in England's Lake District (Cumbria). At roughly 238 m it is no giant, yet it delivers one of the park's best-loved views: the lake spread out below and ranks of fells along the horizon. The climb takes about an hour, which makes it a perfect first taste of the region. Why is Orrest Head so famous? In 1930 a 23-year-old Alfred Wainwright stepped off the train at Windermere station and walked up this very hill. It was his first Lakeland summit, and the experience stayed with him for life. He later gave Orrest Head its own chapter in The Outlying Fells of Lakeland. Today it counts among the Wainwright Outlying Fells, and many fans of his guidebooks begin their own peak-bagging here. What can you see from the top? The summit gives a near 360-degree panorama. Windermere, England's largest natural lake, lies directly below. Beyond it you can pick out the Coniston Fells, the Langdale Pikes and the High Street range. On a clear day Scafell Pike and Great Gable show up too, with Morecambe Bay glinting to the south-west and the Pennines to the east. A viewpoint plate on top helps you put names to the peaks. How do you get to Orrest Head? The walk starts at Windermere railway station. Cross the busy A591 and follow the signed path, which passes a farm, goes through a kissing gate and climbs through woodland to the final steps at the top. Ascent route: around 2 km each way (about 3.5 km as a round trip). Height gain: between 120 and 190 m, depending on the variant. Time: about an hour in total; many walkers reach the top in under 30 minutes. Difficulty: easy, though the last stretch is steep. If you want more, longer loops via Allen Knott run to about 7 km and take nearly three hours. Where can you park? There is no dedicated Orrest Head car park. The closest options are the pay car park by Windermere station and the Booths supermarket car park next door, where time limits apply, so check the current rules before you go. Arriving by train is often easier, since the path begins just beyond the station. Is it suitable for children and people with limited mobility? School-age children usually manage fine. The path is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs, because the final climb is too steep. When is the best time to visit? Go in the morning or late afternoon on a clear day, when low light picks out the water and visibility stretches to the far summits. Spring and autumn are quieter than the summer holidays. After rain the path turns muddy, so wear boots with decent grip. Frequently asked questions How long does it take to climb Orrest Head? The standard route from Windermere takes about an hour there and back at an easy pace. Fitter walkers can reach the summit in under half an hour. Is there an entrance fee? No. The hill is open to everyone and the path is free to use. Is Orrest Head a real Wainwright? Yes, it is one of the Outlying Fells from Alfred Wainwright's guides, and it was the first Lakeland hill he ever climbed. Can you get there by train? Yes. Windermere station sits right by the start of the path, so you do not need a car.

Stave Hill

Londyn

Stave Hill in London is a man-made mound in Rotherhithe, next to Surrey Quays, and one of the better free viewpoints over Docklands. It stands roughly 9 metres tall, yet its platform opens up a wide panorama across east and central London. It sits beside Stave Hill Ecological Park, inside the Russia Dock Woodland. Where does the hill come from? The London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) built it in 1985 from rubble and waste generated by redevelopment work. After the Surrey Docks declined in the early 1970s, the empty dock basins were filled with household waste, rubble and subsoil brought from across the capital. In early 1984 the LDDC offered the site to the Trust for Urban Ecology to replace the William Curtis Ecological Park. Landscaping began in 1986, and the Trust took over the park in 1988. What can you see from the top? The summit has a viewing platform and a cast-bronze relief map of the former docks by sculptor Michael Rizzello. The map helps you picture the port as it looked before the basins were infilled. From the platform you can pick out Canary Wharf, the City and a large part of south and central London. In clear conditions the view is reported to stretch as far as Wembley Stadium. What else is nearby? Stave Hill Ecological Park works as a nature reserve, an educational and research site and a recreation space, run by the Urban Ecology team of The Conservation Volunteers (TCV). The surrounding Russia Dock Woodland occupies the former Russia Dock and Stave Dock, infilled in the 1980s. Southwark Council looks after it together with the Friends of Russia Dock Woodland. A stroll through the trees pairs easily with the climb and a wider walk around the Rotherhithe peninsula. How do you get there? The hill is in south-east London, a short walk from Surrey Quays (London Overground) and Canada Water (Jubilee line). The route runs through green space on the old dock land. No ticket or booking is needed, and the climb takes only a minute or two. When should you visit? Pick a day with good visibility, since it decides how far the panorama reaches. A bright morning or afternoon is best for photographing the Canary Wharf towers. The hill itself needs 15 to 30 minutes, or about an hour if you add the woodland and the ecological park. Frequently asked questions How tall is Stave Hill? About 9 metres. It is an artificial mound, not a natural rise. What can you see from the top? Canary Wharf, the City and wide stretches of south and central London. On very clear days the view reaches Wembley Stadium. Is the hill natural? No. The LDDC built it in 1985 from rubble and waste material. What is the bronze map at the summit? A relief map of the former Surrey Docks by Michael Rizzello. It shows how the area looked before the dock basins were filled in.

Carr Nase

Filey

Carr Naze (also spelled Carr Nase) is a clifftop headland at Filey on the North Yorkshire coast. It forms the landward end of the Filey Brigg peninsula, where the grassy plateau gives way to the narrow reef of rock that runs out into the North Sea. The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and since the early 1970s the fields on top have been Filey Brigg Country Park. What will you see at Carr Naze? The cliff edge, roughly 20 metres high, looks over Filey Bay and the rock platform stretching seaward. The far tip of the promontory is known as Brigg End. The cliffs are layered: on the bay side they are mostly glacial deposits, with limestone and sandstone strata beneath that show more clearly on the seaward flank. Geology fans and wildlife watchers get plenty out of this stretch of coast. A late Roman signal station once stood right on the edge, in use from about 375 to 410 AD. Excavations in 1857 uncovered a building around 50 metres long with a square tower, and further digs in 1993-94 were triggered by coastal erosion. Nothing is visible today because the sea has taken part of the site, but it remains a protected Scheduled Monument. What is the walk like? The Carr Naze circuit is easy: about 2.25 miles (3.6 km), roughly 80 m of ascent and around an hour on foot. You start at the car park, where information boards stand by a gate. From there you head to the tall pointed marker stone showing the start of the Cleveland Way and the end of the Yorkshire Wolds Way, then turn right along the cliff-edge path past the site of the Roman station. The route mixes clifftop paths, beach and pavement, with a few steps. Is it safe? The cliffs are soft and erode quickly. A large slip in 1869 removed several hundred metres of the headland. Paths on the flanks of Carr Naze can be steep and eroded, so wear sturdy footwear and keep dogs under control. Crossing the rock platform at low tide is possible, but the rocks are slippery and you do it at your own risk. Keep well back from the edge. When should you go? Pick a clear day without a strong wind, as the path is fully exposed. If you plan to step onto the rock platform, check tide times and go at low water. Frequently asked questions How does Carr Naze relate to Filey Brigg? Carr Naze is the upper, landward part of the headland, while Filey Brigg strictly refers to the rocky tail extending into the sea. Can you still see the Roman signal station? No, erosion has claimed the visible remains. You can walk past where it stood, and five recovered stones are displayed in Crescent Gardens in Filey. How long does the walk take? The easy 2.25-mile loop takes about an hour. Do tides matter? Yes. The rock platform can be crossed at low tide, but the rocks are slippery.

Wild Park

Brighton

Wild Park is the largest Local Nature Reserve in Brighton and Hove, a sweep of downland on the northern edge of the city beside Lewes Road. Covering about 240 hectares (roughly 593 acres), it combines woodland, open chalk grassland and a prehistoric hillfort, all within easy reach of the urban area. What is Wild Park? The park is a protected green space owned and managed by Brighton and Hove City Council. Its status as a Local Nature Reserve reflects the value of its habitats: tracts of woodland, chalk grassland, patches of chalk scrub and grazing fields that attract seed-eating birds. A dew pond, a traditional water source on the dry chalk hills, adds further variety for wildlife. What is there to see? The best-known landmark is Hollingbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort that lies within the reserve. It is a Scheduled Monument, protected by law since 4 August 1933. The ramparts sit on high ground, so a walk up to the fort rewards you with wide views over the city. Within the reserve boundary you will also find Hollingbury Park golf course. Parts of the grassland are managed by sheep grazing, a traditional method that keeps scrub in check and helps chalk wildflowers and insects thrive. If you visit, keep to paths and follow any signs about livestock. How do you walk it? Woodland paths cross the park, and the most talked-about route is a steep track locals call the "ski slope" that climbs towards Hollingbury fort. It is a demanding ascent, so wear sturdy shoes. The effort is repaid by sweeping views of Brighton and beyond. The park also has a café and sports facilities, including two football pitches and a multi-use games area, so it works for a relaxed family outing as well as a more energetic hike. Practical information Location: Lewes Road, Brighton, East Sussex (postcode BN1 9JS). Opening: the park is open all year round. Best for: walks, views over the city, history lovers, birdwatching and picnics. Terrain: hilly, with some steep sections. Frequently asked questions Is Wild Park free to enter? It is a public open space that is always open, so you can walk in at any time of year. What is Hollingbury Castle? It is an Iron Age hillfort inside the park, now a Scheduled Monument. Its earthworks occupy a hilltop with far-reaching views. Who looks after the park? Brighton and Hove City Council owns and manages it. Residents who would like to help with conservation work can contact the council's city parks team. Can I see wildlife here? Yes. The mix of woodland, chalk grassland, scrub and a dew pond supports a range of species, and the grazing fields are popular with seed-eating birds. Is it suitable for a short visit? Yes. You can stroll the lower paths in under an hour or climb to the hillfort for a longer outing. Wild Park shows how much countryside survives inside Brighton's limits: ancient earthworks, grazed chalk hills and woodland, a short trip from the city centre.

Nomansland Common

St Albans

Nomansland Common is a large area of open common land in Hertfordshire, England, lying south of Harpenden and south-west of Wheathampstead, within reach of St Albans. Covering roughly 52 hectares of grassland, heath and woodland, it is a popular spot for a quiet countryside walk close to the city. What is Nomansland Common? The common is a mosaic of open grassy areas, patches of heathland and wooded edges. It is designated a County Wildlife Site and is managed by St Albans City & District Council. Ownership is shared between the Althorp estate and Wheathampstead Parish Council, and the land straddles two parishes, which fits its unusual name and history. Where does the name come from? The name goes back to the Middle Ages. Two powerful religious houses, the abbeys of St Albans and Westminster, each claimed the land as part of their own parish. Because neither side clearly held it, it became a kind of "no man's land". In 1429 an arrangement gave both abbeys grazing rights on the common, ending the dispute in practice. How old is the use of the land? Finds of flint axes suggest that people grazed or cleared the land thousands of years ago; the oldest finds are dated to around 4000 BC. The soil is poor, which made it unsuitable for farming and helped it remain open common rather than fields. What is the history of the common in recent centuries? In the 18th and 19th centuries the common had a darker reputation as a haunt of highwaymen. A gibbet stood at the top of the hill towards St Albans as a warning to thieves. In the 1820s and 1830s horse races were held here. During the Second World War the common was drawn into the war effort. Field Marshal Montgomery reviewed troops here, and prisoners of war cleared scrub from the southern half so the land could be ploughed for crops. Yields were poor, and after the war the ground was re-seeded with grass. What wildlife can you see? The heathland north of Ferrers Lane ranks among the best in south Hertfordshire. It supports uncommon plants such as dwarf gorse and heather, which bloom in late summer. The surrounding woodland and grassland add habitat variety, making the common a good place for botanists and anyone who enjoys nature. What can you do here? Nomansland Common is used mainly for informal recreation: walking, including dog walking horse riding picnics on the open grass model aircraft flying There is plenty of space to roam, so even on a sunny weekend it rarely feels crowded. Paths cross the grassland and run along the woodland edges. Frequently asked questions Where is Nomansland Common? In Hertfordshire, south of Harpenden and south-west of Wheathampstead, not far from St Albans. Why is it called Nomansland? Because the abbeys of St Albans and Westminster both claimed the land in the 15th century, and no single owner clearly held it. Is it a protected site? Yes, it is a County Wildlife Site, valued for its heathland habitat. Who looks after it? St Albans City & District Council manages it. The land is shared between the Althorp estate and Wheathampstead Parish Council. Is it good for a family outing? Yes. The open grass suits picnics and walks, and the varied history gives plenty to talk about on the way. What is the best time to visit? Late summer, when the heather is in flower, though the common is pleasant in every season.

Wanstead Flats

Londyn

Wanstead Flats is a broad stretch of open grassland in east London and the southernmost part of Epping Forest. It lies between Leytonstone and Wanstead and ends at Forest Gate to the south. It is one of the larger open spaces in this part of the city, used for both organised sport and quiet walks. Where is Wanstead Flats? The land now falls wholly within two London boroughs, Redbridge and Waltham Forest. Until 1994, two parts of it belonged to the London Borough of Newham. One was the section between Aldersbrook Road and Capel Road, east of the junction of Aldersbrook Road and St Margaret's Road. The other was the strip along Capel Road between its junctions with Centre Road and Ridley Road. The coordinates are roughly 51.5582 N, 0.0281 E. Who looks after it? As part of Epping Forest, the Flats are managed by the City of London Corporation. The Epping Forest Act of 1878 secured the land as public open space. For centuries before that it was used mainly for grazing. What is the history of Wanstead Flats? In 1946 West Ham Council tried to build permanent housing here. Local opposition and the Corporation of London stopped the plan. During the 1940s the area hosted prisoner-of-war camps and defensive artillery. Ditches were also dug across the grassland to stop aircraft landing, and accounts say they were still in use into the 1950s. What to see and do Nature. The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with about 11.5 hectares of acid grassland. It is an important breeding ground for threatened skylarks and supports rare plants and insects. Owls, wildflowers and fungi can also be found. Sport. A large part of the Flats is laid out as football pitches used for weekend leagues. The Brick Field area, once clay pits, covers a similar extent. Recreation. Visitors come for horse riding, cycling, running (including parkrun), cricket, kite flying, model aircraft and dog walking. Frequently asked questions Is Wanstead Flats a park? It is open grassland that forms part of Epping Forest, rather than a typical fenced city park. It is open to the public. Is there an entrance fee? As protected public open space, it is open to visitors. For any charges for pitch use, check with the managing authority. Who manages Wanstead Flats? The City of London Corporation, as with the rest of Epping Forest. Why does the site matter for wildlife? Acid grassland and long grass provide habitat for skylarks, rare plants and insects, which is why the area is protected as an SSSI. Which borough is it in? It lies within the London Boroughs of Redbridge and Waltham Forest, next to Leytonstone, Wanstead and Forest Gate. Who is it for? Wanstead Flats suits runners, dog walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers. For visitors it offers a look at green, open east London away from the centre. It pairs well with a trip to nearby Wanstead Park and other parts of Epping Forest.