Loftshaw Pike

The walk up Loftshaw Pike is straightforward enough, but the fell doesn't give up its views easily. You're looking at roughly 45 minutes from the car park, climbing steadily through moorland that turns proper purple come late summer. The summit itself isn't dramatic - no dramatic stone cairn or trig point to announce you've made it - but the reward is a 360-degree sweep across the Bowland fells that makes the effort worthwhile.

This is walkers' territory, not a tourist trap. Families with decent-sized legs will manage it fine, though younger children might find the steady grind a bit much. History buffs won't find much here - it's all about the landscape. On a clear day you can see right across to the Lake District fells, which justifies the slog.

Carnforth is the nearest town if you need supplies, though there's not much to write home about there. The real draw if you're staying in the area is pairing this with the Philpin Farm Campsite just five and a half miles away - a solid base for exploring this corner of the Pennines. Allow a full half-day for the walk and descent. Go early if you want decent visibility. The weather up here changes like a moody teenager, so waterproofs aren't optional, even when the forecast looks promising.