Lease Rigg

The walk up Lease Rigg is properly steep - no messing about with gentle gradients here. From Whitby, it's a decent trek inland, and once you've hauled yourself up the North York Moors, you get rewarded with genuine 360-degree views across moorland that seems to roll on forever. On a clear day you can see right across to the coast.

It's the sort of spot that appeals to serious walkers rather than casual strollers. Families with younger kids might find the climb a bit much, but teenagers who don't mind a proper slog will genuinely enjoy themselves up there. The views make the burning legs worthwhile. On a windy day - and it does get windy - you'll understand why the moors feel so wild and empty.

There's no café, no visitor centre, no facilities to speak of. It's free to access, which is proper refreshing. Allow a couple of hours return trip depending on your fitness and how long you want to linger at the top. The ground can be boggy after rain, so boots are essential rather than optional.

If you're staying at Broadings Farm Caravan Site nearby, this makes a natural half-day excursion from base camp. It's the sort of walk that clears your head properly - no crowds, no nonsense, just moorland and views. Worth the effort if you're into walking; probably not worth a special trip if you're not.