Burners Hills

Three distinct peaks rise from the Durham moorland just outside Barnard Castle, offering some of the finest elevated views across Teesdale. Burners Hills might not trouble the OS maps with dramatic elevation marks, but what they lack in height they make up for in accessibility and panoramic rewards. The walking here is straightforward - no scrambling or technical bits - making it proper family territory for anyone with decent boots and a bit of stamina.

From the summits, the Tees valley spreads out below like a geological textbook, with the river snaking through green pastures towards Middleton-in-Teesdale. On clear days, you can trace the line of the Pennine hills stretching north and south. The terrain up here feels genuinely wild despite being so close to civilization - just heather, grass, and the odd grouse complaining about your presence.

Walkers will find this a cracking morning or afternoon expedition, taking roughly two to three hours for a decent circuit of all three peaks. History enthusiasts might spot traces of old lead workings scattered about the slopes, remnants of when this area hummed with mining activity. Families staying at nearby sites like Doe Park or Mickleton Mill will find it well worth the short drive for the exercise and views, though small children might find the moorland terrain a bit much after the first summit.