Dalmoney Hill

At 375 metres, Dalmoney Hill won't challenge serious fell walkers but offers a proper little climb with rewarding views over the Solway coast. The path up is fairly straightforward, winding through typical Lowland moorland and scattered woodland before opening out to reveal sweeping vistas across to the Lake District fells on a clear day.

Families with older children will manage the ascent comfortably - reckon on about an hour and a half return from Dalbeattie. It's free to roam, naturally, being typical Scottish hill country. The summit itself is marked by a small cairn and the views are well worth the modest effort, particularly looking south towards the Cumbrian peaks.

Dog walkers love this spot, though keep leads handy during lambing season. Early morning or late afternoon light shows the landscape at its best, and you'll often have the hill largely to yourself midweek. The terrain can get boggy after rain, so decent boots are essential.

Staying at one of the holiday parks near Dalbeattie makes this an easy morning adventure. Glenearly Caravan Park sits closest at under a mile away, while Kippford View Holiday Park puts you within striking distance of both the hill and the lovely Solway coast. After the climb, the old granite quarries around Dalbeattie make for an interesting wander if you fancy extending the day out.