Grindon Sandhill

The walk up Grindon Sandhill rewards you with views that sweep across County Durham's rolling landscape - on a clear day you can genuinely see for miles. It's not a massive peak, but it's steep enough to get your heart properly working, especially if you're tackling it from the Durham side.

This is a proper walker's spot rather than a casual stroll job. Allow a solid hour or so for the climb and descent depending on your fitness. The terrain's sandy in places - hence the name - which keeps things interesting underfoot. Kids will either love the scramble up or complain the whole way; there's no middle ground.

You won't find a visitor centre or facilities at the top, so come prepared with water and decent boots. The summit itself is fairly exposed, which means wind can be proper bracing even on milder days.

If you're based at Finchale Abbey Residential & Touring Park just outside Durham, this makes an excellent half-day expedition. It's close enough for a morning outing but far enough removed to feel like an actual adventure rather than a park exercise. The real value here is in the walking rather than any attractions at the summit - it's about getting outside and moving, not ticking boxes. Worth the detour if you're in the area and have decent weather; pointless if the clouds are down low.