Craignie Wall

The walk up to Craignie Wall rewards you with one of those proper Scottish Lowland views that catches you off guard - rolling moorland stretching out in every direction, and on a clear day, you can pick out landmarks across Dumfries and Galloway. It's a peak rather than a mountain, so don't expect a scramble or any technical climbing; this is solid moorland walking from start to finish.

Newton Stewart sits closest if you're using it as your base, and the approach takes you through heather and rough grass that's pleasant enough underfoot when it's dry. The actual summit isn't dramatic - no rocky outcrop or cairn to speak of - but the view compensates. You're looking at a couple of hours there and back depending on your pace and how much time you spend gazing around at the top.

Histor buffs will get something from the landscape itself - this moorland has shaped centuries of life in the region - but you're coming here primarily for the walk and the views rather than archaeological interest. Families with kids aged eight and up will manage it fine if they're used to moorland walks; younger children might find the terrain a bit relentless.

If you're staying at Three Lochs Holiday Park nearby, this makes an excellent half-day expedition that doesn't require a long drive. The peak works best in late spring or early autumn when the moorland's at its best and the midges are less murderous. Bring a map - the terrain can look samey in mist.