Blakelow Hill

Standing at 530 metres above sea level, this modest peak offers proper Derbyshire views without the crowds that plague nearby Kinder Scout or Bleaklow. The summit sits on the edge of the Dark Peak, giving you a cracking panorama across the Hope Valley and towards Matlock to the south. It's not the most dramatic hill in the Peak District, mind you, but that's rather the point - you'll likely have the top to yourself on most days.

Experienced walkers will find the ascent straightforward enough, though the approach from the Snake Pass can be boggy in wet weather. Families with older children who fancy a proper hill walk will enjoy this one - it's challenging without being intimidating. The path isn't always clear, so decent navigation skills help.

Allow three to four hours for a circular route from the nearest parking. Spring through autumn gives the best conditions, though winter can be spectacular if you're properly equipped. The descent towards Glossop offers different views and makes for a satisfying day out.

Staying at Darwin Forest or one of the Peak Pods makes Blakelow Hill an easy day trip. Those based at Hoe Grange Holidays are even closer - just over three miles to the usual starting points. It's well worth combining with other Dark Peak walks if you're making a week of it.