Leys Hill

The climb up Leys Hill rewards you with proper moorland views across the Pennines, though it's hardly a leg-breaker compared to some of the heftier peaks nearby. You're looking at a straightforward fell walk from Skipton way - nothing technical, just good honest hiking through rough grass and bracken to a modest cairn at the top. The real appeal is the isolation. This isn't Pen-y-ghent or Whernside pulling crowds; you'll likely have the summit to yourself, which makes a nice change. Allow a couple of hours return from the nearest car park, depending on your pace and how long you fancy lingering over the view.

It's worth the trip if you're staying at one of the local holiday parks - Thornton Hall or Holgates Ribble Valley are close enough for a half-day outing without eating into your afternoon. Families with kids of reasonable fitness will manage it fine; anyone expecting a quick 20-minute stroll will find it a bit disappointing. Walkers serious about bagging Pennine peaks might roll their eyes at the elevation, but it serves as a pleasant warm-up or a quieter alternative when the bigger peaks are rammed.

The moorland itself is exposed, so weather matters - driving rain or thick cloud turns it from lovely to grim quickly. Spring and autumn tend to be your sweet spots. There's no facilities at the top or obvious visitor infrastructure, so come prepared with water and a map. It's the sort of walk that doesn't make guidebooks but absolutely makes sense if you're based nearby.