Cat Stones

You'll find yourself climbing moorland above Hebden Bridge to reach these Bronze Age standing stones - three weathered rocks that have been marking this hillside for roughly 4,000 years. The walk up takes about half an hour from the town, and the effort is genuinely worth it for the views alone, never mind the archaeology.

What you're looking at are burial markers from around 2000 BC, though honestly, they're not dramatic in the Instagram sense. They're modest stones, worn smooth by centuries of Yorkshire weather, which somehow makes them more affecting. You stand there thinking about the people who hauled these up here when Hebden Bridge didn't exist, when this was just moorland and sky.

History enthusiasts will get the most from a visit - bring an archaeological guide or do your homework beforehand, because there's no interpretation on site. The stones themselves won't keep you occupied for more than twenty minutes unless you're genuinely keen. It's really about the experience of walking the moors and touching something genuinely ancient.

The beauty is that Cat Stones slots perfectly into a broader Pennine walk. You're never far from decent camping - both Hebden Bridge Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite and Old Chamber Camping are within easy reach, making this a sensible half-day excursion. Access appears unrestricted, and there's no charge. Go early on a clear day when visibility stretches for miles. Kids will find it a bit underwhelming unless they're already interested in prehistory.