Kinnaird Hill

The walk up Kinnaird Hill takes about forty minutes from Perth, and it's one of those local peaks that rewards you with views proper worth the effort. The summit sits at 729 metres, which means you're high enough to see across the Tay Valley without needing mountaineering skills or specialist gear. On a clear day you can pick out the Ochil Hills rolling away to the south and the Highland edge rising north.

It's a straightforward ascent through mixed woodland at the lower levels, opening out onto moorland as you gain height. The path is well-trodden and marked, though it can get boggy after rain - decent boots are worth taking. Allow two to three hours for the round trip if you're pacing yourself, or ninety minutes if you know what you're doing.

History buffs will want to know this hill has Iron Age fort remains near the top, though they're subtle enough that you'll miss them if you're not looking. Families with older kids will find it manageable; younger ones might struggle with the final push up loose scree.

If you're staying at Maycroft Retreat or Perth Caravan Park, this makes a cracking half-day outing without driving. Park near the old quarry and head up from there. Go early on weekends - it's popular with Perth residents and the car park fills up. Free, obviously. Best in spring or autumn when the moorland colours are good and the midges aren't quite so ambitious.