High Crag

From the car park near Ilkley, the path to High Crag winds steadily upward through heather moorland that turns purple come August. This isn't the Lake District's High Crag - Yorkshire has its own version, and it's a proper climb that'll get your heart pumping.

The summit sits at a respectable height on Ilkley Moor, offering sweeping views across the Wharfe Valley and toward the Yorkshire Dales beyond. On clear days, you can spot Pendle Hill to the west. It's the sort of view that makes the leg burn worthwhile, though don't expect crowds - this peak doesn't attract the same attention as nearby Cow and Calf rocks.

Walkers with decent fitness will find the most satisfaction here. Families with teenagers who don't mind a challenge could tackle it, but skip it with small children - the terrain gets rough in places and there's no easy route up. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, depending on how long you linger at the top.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Brown Bank or Olicana Park puts you within easy striking distance of the moor. Pack layers - the weather can shift quickly up here, and the wind has a bite even in summer. Worth combining with a visit to Ilkley's cafes afterward for a well-earned brew and cake.