Carse Knowes

The walk up Carse Knowes takes you through proper moorland, climbing steadily from the Thornhill side with views that open out across Dumfries and Galloway as you gain height. It's not a bruising ascent - more of a determined plod than a scramble - and the paths are generally straightforward, though they can get boggy depending on the weather.

Once you're up there, the summit view justifies the effort. You get a real sense of the landscape's shape from this vantage point, with the Southern Uplands rolling away southward and the Lowlands spreading out northward. On a clear day it's a cracking spot for photographs.

The walk suits anyone with reasonable fitness who doesn't mind a bit of mud. You'll want two to three hours return depending on your pace, and proper boots matter here - trainers will be sodden by halfway. Families with older kids who enjoy moorland walks will find it rewarding. The terrain and views mean it's more interesting than a flat plod, but it's not dramatic enough to hold the attention of those after proper mountain drama.

If you're staying at Penpont Holiday Park just down the road, Carse Knowes is a logical half-day outing. The location makes it a natural fit with exploring the wider Southern Uplands area. Go in the morning if you can - afternoon light in this region tends to flatten the views. Admission is free, which is always good news.