Bent Hill

The walk up Bent Hill takes you out of Skipton and into proper Yorkshire moorland - the sort of place where the wind picks up without warning and the views suddenly open out across the Dales. It's not a particularly high peak, but that's rather the point. You get the satisfaction of reaching the top without needing fell-running legs or a full day's commitment.

The climb itself is straightforward, a steady pull through grass and scrubland with decent paths most of the way. On a clear day you're looking across to Wharfedale and beyond - the kind of landscape that makes you understand why people drive up from Leeds just to breathe the air. On a grey day, it's moody and atmospheric, the hills disappearing into cloud. Both are worth the walk.

This suits families with older kids and anyone after a shorter moorland route without the drama of higher peaks. You're looking at two to three hours depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. There's a proper sense of escape despite being close to town. If you're camping at Wood Nook or Wharfedale just outside Skipton, this is an excellent half-day out that doesn't eat into your park time. Pack a decent wind jacket - it's hillier up there than it looks from below, and the weather moves fast across open moorland. No facilities on the hill itself, so bring water.