Harleburn Head

The walk up Harleburn Head isn't particularly demanding, which is precisely why so many people get it wrong. It's one of those Lowland hills that sits just high enough to feel proper rewarding without requiring scrambling gear or a dawn start. From Biggar, you're looking at a straightforward trudge across open moorland - the sort of terrain that gets windier the higher you go, so dress in layers.

The summit views stretch across South Lanarkshire in ways that surprise you. On a clear day you can trace the Clyde Valley and pick out shapes of bigger peaks further north. The moorland itself is that rolling, bronze-coloured landscape that looks bleak in winter but rather lovely when the light catches it right. Allow a good two hours for the round trip if you're not particularly fast.

This suits walkers after something genuine without the slog of the Southern Uplands proper. Families with older kids will manage it fine, though younger ones might find the exposed moorland a bit dull if they're not keen on unspectacular views. History buffs won't find much up here - it's pure walking territory.

If you're staying at Mount View Caravan Park nearby, Harleburn Head makes a solid half-day outing that doesn't demand much planning. The ground can be boggy after rain, so go when the weather's been decent. There's no facilities at the summit, so bring water. It's free, obviously, and you can tackle it more or less any time the light's reasonable.