Drumbuie

The walk up Drumbuie from near Dumfries rewards you with proper views across the Solway Firth toward the Lake District hills beyond. It's not a dramatic peak - more of a steady climb through farmland and forestry - but the elevation gives you real perspective on this corner of the Scottish Lowlands.

You're looking at around two hours up and back, depending on your pace and whether you dawdle at the top. The ascent is gentle enough for most walkers, though the final push gets a bit steeper. On a clear day it's worth the effort. On a grey one, honestly, you might find the views underwhelming.

This works well as part of a longer holiday based at one of the caravan parks scattered around Dumfries - Parkdean Resorts Southerness is only a couple of miles away if you fancy a night or two by the coast. Sandyhills Bay and Criffel View offer quieter alternatives. It's the sort of walk that fills a morning nicely before lunch, or you could tack it onto a visit to Caerlaverock Castle, which sits just down the road.

Families with teenagers will get on fine with it. Younger kids might find it a bit dull without the dramatics of a proper mountain. The Dumfries area isn't famous for its peaks, so manage your expectations - this is steady walking country rather than Alpine theatre. Free to walk, obviously. Just park sensibly and respect the farmland.