Low Black Hill

Standing at 528 metres, this modest fell offers some of the best views across the North Pennines without the crowds you'll find on higher peaks. The summit sits just south of Weardale and provides a proper workout - the ascent from any direction involves a fair bit of huffing and puffing through heather and rough grassland.

Walkers who enjoy a challenge will appreciate the remote feeling here. There's no marked path to speak of, so you'll need decent navigation skills and the OS map. The reward is worth it though - on a clear day you can see right across to the Lake District fells in one direction and the Yorkshire Dales in another.

Families with young children might struggle with this one. It's proper fell walking territory rather than a gentle ramble, and the terrain can be boggy after rain. Serious hikers and those wanting to escape the beaten track will find it spot on.

Allow three to four hours for a round trip from any reasonable starting point. Best tackled in dry weather when visibility is good - there's little point slogging up here in thick cloud.

For those staying at nearby parks like Heather View or Kingfisher Holiday Park, it makes a decent day out combined with exploring Stanhope or other Weardale villages. Just don't expect facilities at the summit - bring everything you need.