Knocknavar

The walk up Knocknavar takes you out of Stranraer and into proper hill country, even if the peak itself sits at a modest 426 metres. From the top, you get a decent vantage point over Dumfries and Galloway - the kind of view that reminds you why the Scottish Lowlands don't get enough credit. On a clear day, the sweep of landscape justifies the climb. There's nothing fancy about it. No café, no visitor centre, just a straightforward hill walk that takes most people around two hours up and back.

It works well for families with older kids and anyone after a proper stretch of the legs without needing to head further into the Highlands. Younger children might find it a bit of a slog - the path gets steep in places and the reward at the top is more about the panorama than any dramatic peak experience. History buffs won't find much here, but walkers after genuine Lowland countryside will find it refreshing.

Getting there is straightforward from Stranraer town centre. Go early on weekends if you can; parking near the trailhead fills up. Bring decent boots - it can get muddy - and allow three hours to be comfortable. If you're based at Sands of Luce Holiday Park just outside town, this makes a solid morning or afternoon out without needing to travel far. The weather changes fast up here, so waterproofs aren't optional.