Crow Knowl

The walk up Crow Knowl from Greenfield is straightforward enough - a proper moorland slog that takes about an hour and a bit each way. You're heading up onto the Pennine hills, and the path gets steep toward the top, but nothing that'll have you scrambling. The summit itself is a bit of a letdown if you're after dramatic views. It's open moorland, fairly exposed, and on a clear day you can see across toward Oldham, but it's not the sort of vista that'll leave you breathless.

That said, the walk itself is pleasant enough for families who don't mind a steady climb. Kids will manage it without complaint if they're used to the hills. On a quiet weekday you'll barely see another soul, which has its own appeal - you're not jostling with crowds to stand on a heap of stones.

The real draw is using this as part of a longer moorland loop around Greenfield. Couple it with a visit to Dovestone Holiday Park nearby, and you've got a decent base for exploring the area's walking routes without having to drive between peaks. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip if you're not dawdling.

Timing-wise, spring and early autumn are best - summer can be a bit muggy up there, and winter turns the paths into proper bogs. It's free, naturally, and no facilities at the top, so bring water.