Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons: The Cotswolds countryside where butterflies roam and stones cure smallpox

These 828 acres of hills above the Stroud Valleys and Severn Vale are adorned with fluttering large blue butterflies, successfully reintroduced after 40 years of extinction in the UK, plus the rare Duke of Burgundy.

More than 100 species of grasses and wildflowers, from short-lived pasqueflowers in spring to summer bee orchids and autumn gentians, make this an internationally important site.

There’s historical significance, too, on Minchinhampton, with mile-long earthworks from the Iron Age Belgic Dobunni tribe, a long barrow named for an 18th-century preacher, Second World War glider-trap remains and a standing stone that can apparently cure smallpox. Though in the case of the latter it's probably best to rely on your local GP for all your smallpox needs...

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Racton Folly, West Sussex: Flying bricks, faces in windows and a ghost tractor that sneaks up behind you

Our Secret Britain series continues with a look at a crumbling folly in Sussex.

Mynydd Carningli, Pembrokeshire: The ancient volcano in the shape of a reclining woman

The peak of this remote mountain in West Wales is the next spot to make our Secret Britain list.

Balnahard beach, Isle of Colonsay: A magical beauty spot with thousands of years of history

The white sand beach of Balnahard, on the Isle of Colonsay, is as fascinating as it is beautiful.