Knockside Hills

The walk up Knockside Hills is steep and punishing, but the payoff is proper worth it if you're based around Lochwinnoch. You're looking at maybe an hour to the summit depending on fitness, and the views across the Renfrewshire countryside are genuinely excellent - on a clear day you can see right across the lowlands, which isn't something you get every day in this part of Scotland.

It's a straightforward hill walk rather than a technical climb, which means families with older kids will manage fine. The younger ones might find the gradient a bit much, but anyone over eight or nine should be alright if they're used to a decent walk. The ground can be boggy in patches, particularly after rain, so proper boots beat trainers every time.

Walkers and anyone wanting to properly stretch their legs will get the most out of this. It's not a destination in itself - you're not getting a café or visitor centre at the top - but it's exactly the sort of walk that justifies a week at The Pods at Auchenhean, just a few miles away. Pair it with the other Lochwinnoch walks in the area and you've got a cracking few days of outdoor stuff without spending a fortune.

Go early morning if you can. The light's better, the hill's quieter, and you'll avoid the afternoon mist that rolls in fairly regular. Bring a packed lunch - you'll want somewhere to sit and actually enjoy those views.