Chapel Hill

Standing at 281 metres above the market town of Otley, Chapel Hill offers one of the most accessible summit walks in the Yorkshire Dales without requiring serious hiking gear or mountain experience. The grassy slopes rise steadily from the town's edge, and while it's not technically challenging, your calves will definitely know about it by the top.

Reach the summit and you'll understand why locals rate this climb so highly. Views stretch across Wharfedale to the higher fells beyond, with Otley spread out below like a detailed map. On clear days, you can spot the unmistakable bulk of Pen-y-ghent on the horizon. It's particularly lovely in late afternoon when the light catches the stone walls threading across the valley floor.

Families with older children will manage this fine - allow about an hour up and half that coming down. Dog walkers are regular visitors too, though keep leads handy near the livestock. The path can get muddy after rain, so proper walking boots are sensible.

From nearby holiday parks like Rudding or Haighfield, this makes a cracking morning expedition before heading back to base. No entrance fees, no opening hours to worry about - just you, the hill, and whatever weather Yorkshire decides to throw at you.