Holdron Moss

The walk up Holdron Moss from Preston direction is neither long nor particularly brutal, which is precisely why it works as a quick morning venture before heading elsewhere. It's a modest peak by any standard, but the moorland approach has that raw Lancashire feel - brown heather, wind-bitten grass, the sort of landscape that looks better in person than on a postcard.

You'll get proper views across the surrounding hills once you're up there, and on a clear day it's genuinely worth the leg work. The walk takes a couple of hours return depending on your pace, so it suits families after something straightforward without the commitment of a full day out. Older kids who've done a few hills before won't find it demanding.

There's nothing much at the summit itself - no cafe, no facilities, just moorland and sky. That's rather the point though. If you're staying at Brickhouse Caravan Park just down the way, this makes a decent afternoon option when the weather's cooperating. Preston's close enough that you could combine it with a town visit if needed, though the moss itself is your sole reason for being here.

Best visited in late summer or early autumn when the heather flowers and the light's that particular gold that makes Lancashire moorland almost beautiful. Winter can be grim and muddy in equal measure. No facilities on the hill, so bring water and something to eat - there's nowhere to grab refreshments once you've left Preston behind.