Hilsea Lines are a scheduled ancient monument close to the centre of Portsmouth. As well as being steeped in military history, this little corridor of green at the top of Portsea Island has woodland, lagoons, moats, tunnels, a park, a café and a splash pad - all connected by pushchair friendly paths.

Once a claypit for the local brickworks, this nature reserve is now a wildlife oasis with a series of little lakes and woodland alive with birds. In between Portsmouth and Southampton, and close to the M27, it is easy to access and easy to explore.

If you want a playground on your walk, you really can’t find better than the one at Alver Valley Country Park. If you can drag the children away from the play equipment, the rest of the park offers easy walks with ponds, views of The Solent, various wildlife habitats, and even a second play area.

Take the easy to follow path, passing woodland and streams, to find a large beach backed by cliffs and excellent coastal walks.

Occupying a commanding position overlooking The Solent, Portchester castle makes a fascinating place to walk around in any season.

There are two abbeys for children to explore on this short walk. One is the glorious ruin of Titchfield Abbey and the other is a wooden play structure inspired by the former and set in a brand new park, Abbey Meadows.

There aren’t many walks we do that I actually think are better in the winter, but this could be one. During the colder months especially, this habitat is home to an internationally important population of wading birds and wildfowl. And all just a hop across the water from the city of Portsmouth.

When the tide is out, this quiet, dog friendly corner of Hayling Island provides a sandy beach and sand dunes. A great place for a family stroll by the sea.