Glenearn Hill

The walk up Glenearn Hill from Perth takes about forty minutes if you're not dawdling, and the views across the Tay valley are genuinely worth the effort. It's a proper hill rather than a gentle stroll - steep enough in places that you'll feel it in your legs, but nothing that requires special kit or experience.

What you get at the top is a 360-degree panorama of Perthshire. On a clear day you can see right across to the Ochill Hills, and Perth itself spreads out below like a model railway set. The summit itself is unremarkable - just open moorland with a trig point - but that's almost the point. You're walking for the view, not for attractions.

History types won't find much in the way of ruins or interpretation boards, and young kids might flag partway up unless they're keen walkers. But for anyone staying at Maycroft Retreat or Perth Caravan Park wanting a decent afternoon walk, this hits the spot. Leave from the north side of Perth and allow two hours return, including a proper break at the top with a flask.

It's free, obviously. Go on a weekday in autumn when the light's good and the midges have buggered off. Weekends can get busy with locals doing their fitness thing. The path's well-trodden enough that you won't get lost, though it can be boggy after rain.