Long Hill

The walk up Long Hill rewards you with views across Derbyshire that make the climb worth every step. It's not a technical scramble - more a proper country hike - but the gradient does catch you out if you're not expecting it. The summit gives you broad vistas over the surrounding landscape, and on a clear day you can pick out various peaks and valleys stretching away. For walkers staying in the area, this is exactly the sort of outing that fills a morning well. Allow a couple of hours there and back depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top.

It works particularly well if you're based at one of the nearby holiday parks. Fairview Farm Log Cabins sits just 5.3 miles away, and both Riddings Wood and Golden Valley are within easy striking distance - close enough that you can do this as a day walk without faffing about with long drives. The route suits anyone who likes moderate hiking without expecting anything mountaineering-related. Families with reasonably fit kids will manage it fine; elderly walkers might find the steeper sections a bit demanding. Solo hikers and couples after a good leg-stretcher get the most satisfaction from it.

The nearest proper town is Nottingham, though Long Hill itself sits deep in Derbyshire countryside. Go early if you want to avoid crowds, and pick a day when the weather's settled - the wind can be fairly bracing once you're exposed at the top. It's free to access, naturally, since it's just a hill.