Housedon Hill

The walk up Housedon Hill takes about forty minutes from Coldstream and rewards you with proper views across the Scottish Borders. It's not a dramatic peak - more a steady climb through farmland before you reach the open moorland at the top. On a clear day you can see right across to the Cheviot Hills, which is frankly the whole point of coming here.

This is one for walkers who want a bit of fresh air without needing mountaineering skills. The path is straightforward, muddy in places but nothing technical. You'll pass through woodland, then emerge onto higher ground where the wind picks up and the landscape opens out. Kids aged eight upwards will manage it fine, though younger ones might find the walk a bit of a slog.

You're looking at two to three hours total if you include a break at the top. There's no cafe or facilities on the hill itself, so bring a packed lunch and water. The nearest accommodation is Coldstream Holiday Park, just five miles down the road - a solid base if you're planning a few days of Borders walking. Highburn House Caravan Park is equally close and well-regarded.

Go on a weekday morning if you can. Weekends draw a decent crowd, and the car park fills up. The views are best between April and September when the weather's more predictable. It's free to walk, naturally - just park near the start and go. Not a showstopper on its own, but properly worth doing if you're in the area for a week.