Deffer Hill

Three miles west of Sheffield, this modest summit offers one of South Yorkshire's better viewpoints without the crowds that plague the Peak District proper. Deffer Hill sits at a respectable height, giving you sweeping views across the Don Valley and towards the city's steel works - industrial heritage that's actually rather striking from this distance.

Walkers will appreciate the relatively gentle ascent, though it's still enough of a climb to feel you've earned the panorama at the top. The path can get muddy after rain, so decent boots are essential. Families with older children will manage it fine, though toddlers might struggle with the steeper sections.

From the summit, you can trace Sheffield's sprawl eastward while looking west into proper Pennine country. It's not dramatic in the way of Kinder Scout, but there's something satisfying about gaining height so close to a major city. The whole walk takes about two hours return from the nearest parking.

Campers staying at nearby sites like High Lea Farm or Broad Close Farm will find this makes a decent half-day excursion. Pack a flask - the wind up here has bite even on mild days, and there's nowhere to shelter once you're on the exposed upper slopes. Worth the effort if you're after views without venturing too far into tourist territory.