Greygarth Monument

The stone obelisk marking Greygarth sits on high ground near Ripon, commanding views across North Yorkshire's rolling countryside. It's a modest monument - nothing flashy, just a solid pillar of worked stone that's been catching the light for centuries. The site itself requires a bit of legwork to reach, which keeps the crowds thin.

This is proper territory for history enthusiasts and walkers who don't mind a ramble to earn their views. You're looking at a straightforward walk across open moorland, the kind of place where the wind gets a decent run at you. The monument marks something worth knowing about, though I'd be honest - if you're hoping for interpretive boards and a café, you'll leave disappointed. There's just the stone, the landscape, and you.

Getting there from Ripon takes a decent drive followed by boots on the ground. It's the sort of stop that works best if you're already walking the wider area rather than making a special trip. If you're based at Woodhouse Farm Holiday Park, just 3.4 miles away, it makes a cracking afternoon outing - combine it with exploring the Nidderdale countryside and you've got yourself a proper day out.

Allow an hour or so for the walk and time to take in the views. The site is free, naturally. Weather matters here - pick a clear day if you can. Kids will manage fine if they're used to walking, but toddlers will find it tedious.