Harland Edge

Three miles north of Matlock, this limestone edge delivers proper Peak District views without the Stanage Edge crowds. The walk up isn't particularly taxing - about 30 minutes from the nearest parking spot - but the payoff at the top is cracking. You'll get sweeping views across the Derwent Valley and towards Chatsworth's parkland in the distance.

Families with older children will manage the ascent fine, though it's probably not one for pushchairs or toddlers. The rock formations along the edge are interesting enough to keep teenagers engaged, and there are several good spots for a picnic if the weather's playing ball.

Being limestone rather than the more famous gritstone edges further north, Harland Edge has its own character. The rock is paler, more weathered, and creates different shapes. It's free to explore, naturally, and you could easily spend a couple of hours up there if you're in no rush.

For those staying at Darwin Forest or the other holiday parks scattered around the area, this makes a decent morning or afternoon outing. It's less dramatic than some of the bigger name peaks, but that's rather the point - sometimes you want the views without fighting for elbow room.