Eel Ark Hill

The walk up Eel Ark Hill rewards you with proper Dales views - rolling moorland that stretches towards Skipton and beyond. It's not one of those dramatic limestone peaks that dominates the skyline; instead, it's a steady climb through farmland and onto open fell where the wind really finds you. Allow a couple of hours there and back from the nearest parking, depending on your fitness and how long you linger at the top.

The summit itself is modest - a cairn marking the high point, nothing elaborate - but the vantage across upper Airedale makes the effort worthwhile. On a clear day you can pick out the stone walls running down the hillside like scars, and spot other walkers tackling nearby peaks. Walkers tackling the wider Dales loop will find this a solid half-day addition to their itinerary. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might find the exposed moorland section a bit relentless.

It's free to access, naturally - just turn up and start walking. There's no visitor centre or facilities at the summit, so pack water and something to eat. Avoid the peak tourist season if you can; midweek in shoulder months feels far less crowded. The glamping pods at Malham and Coxons Farm sit within easy reach, and both make decent bases for exploring this corner of the Yorkshire Dales without the tent-pitching hassle.