Collinson's Hill

The walk up Collinson's Hill rewards you with proper views across County Durham's rolling countryside - nothing fancy, just honest moorland panorama that stretches for miles on a clear day. It's a straightforward hike from Barnard Castle, taking maybe an hour depending on pace and how often you stop to catch your breath on the climb.

The peak itself is modest rather than dramatic, but that's rather the point. You get that genuine sense of having earned the view without needing technical kit or dangerous scrambling. Walkers will appreciate the accessibility, families with older kids can manage it without complaint, and it's exactly the sort of walk that makes a moorland holiday feel productive rather than strenuous.

Head up here in late afternoon and you'll have the light working properly. Early morning's equally pleasant if you're staying at The Old Armoury Campsite nearby - a solid base with excellent reviews that sits just five miles away. The campsite location puts you within easy reach of this walk plus Barnard Castle itself, which is worth an afternoon exploring.

There's nothing to pay and no facilities at the summit, so bring water and maybe a packed lunch if you're making an afternoon of it. It's the kind of walk that doesn't demand hours but gives back genuine satisfaction - particularly good if you're mixing countryside time with visits to nearby attractions. Not dramatic, but thoroughly worthwhile.