Cowmes Hill

The walk up Cowmes Hill rewards you with one of those rare Yorkshire views that actually justifies the climb - proper moorland rolling away toward the Pennines, with Skipton visible in the valley below if the weather plays ball. It's a genuine fell, not some manicured footpath, with rough grass and honest gradients that'll test your calves but won't destroy you. Allow a solid hour for the ascent and another to potter about on top; plenty of walkers tackle it as a half-day sortie from Skipton itself, which is only a handful of miles south.

This is one for people who like genuine walking rather than a stroll around an attraction. There's nothing built up there - no visitor centre, no cafe, no faffing about - just you, the moorland, and the views. Families with older kids will manage fine, though smaller legs might find the unrelenting gradient a bit much. The route isn't signposted like some honeypost honeypot, so if you're the type who needs a perfectly groomed path and a gift shop at the top, look elsewhere.

Basing yourself at Bolton Abbey Estate Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite or one of the other parks nearby - Catgill Farm and Howgill Lodge are both close - gives you the perfect launchpad for this walk. You're well positioned to explore the wider moorland hereabouts too. Go when the light's low and golden; midday glare flattens everything and you'll miss what makes it worth the effort.