Castle Naze

The ramparts are still there if you know where to look. Castle Naze, just outside Buxton, is an Iron Age hill fort - little more than earthwork ridges now, but walk the perimeter and you can trace where ancient defences once stood. The site sits on high ground with decent views across the Derbyshire moorland, which alone makes the walk worthwhile even if archaeology isn't your thing.

It's free and accessible round the clock, which means you can turn up whenever suits. Allow an hour to properly explore - it's not massive, but the walk up is proper steep, so don't expect to stroll it in fifteen minutes. The ramparts themselves are subtle; this isn't Maiden Castle or some dramatic Iron Age spectacle. If you're after crumbling stonework and visitor facilities, you'll be disappointed. But if you like the idea of standing where Iron Age communities lived and defended themselves, there's something genuinely moving about that.

Historically minded walkers will get the most from it. Kids might find the walk tedious unless they're the type who enjoy scrambling through grassland and imagining ancient battles. The site works well as part of a broader ramble around Buxton rather than a standalone trip.

Stay at Lime Tree Holiday Park or Buxton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite - both brilliant 5-star spots within easy striking distance - and combine this with walks across the High Peak. It's the kind of place that rewards a bit of effort and curiosity but won't blow your mind if you're just passing through.