Hemmel Hill

The walk up Hemmel Hill takes you out of Northallerton into proper Yorkshire moorland - nothing fancy, just good honest climbing with views that open up the further you go. It's a modest peak rather than a dramatic summit, but that's rather the point. You're not scrambling over rocks or navigating technical terrain; instead, you get a straightforward fell walk that rewards effort without demanding mountaineering skills.

Once up top, the North Yorkshire landscape spreads out in all directions. On a clear day, you can see across the Vale of Mowbray toward distant hills. The walk itself takes a couple of hours return from Northallerton, making it ideal for a morning or afternoon adventure without eating up your whole day.

Families with kids aged eight and up will manage it fine, though younger legs might find the climb tiring. Serious fell-walkers might find it a touch underwhelming, but for anyone wanting a proper walk without needing to drive hours to the Lakes or Peak District, it does the job well. The moorland gives you that sense of openness you chase when you escape to the countryside.

Stay at Cote Ghyll Caravan Park just 1.4 miles away - it's rated brilliantly and perfectly positioned for using this as a base. Alternatively, Whorlton Pods at five miles offers something different if you fancy glamping. Either way, it's an uncomplicated addition to a North Yorkshire holiday that gets you moving and clears your head.