Low Pike

Low Pike sits just above Bishop Auckland in County Durham, a modest fell that punches above its weight for effort versus reward. The walk up takes the best part of an hour depending on your fitness, but the views across Weardale and toward the higher fells of the Pennines make it worthwhile. On a clear day you can see for miles - proper expansive stuff.

It's not a technical climb by any stretch. Families with older kids will manage it fine, and walkers after a decent leg-stretcher without committing to a full Pennine trek should absolutely do this. The terrain is moorland and grass, occasionally boggy when it's been wet. Allow two to three hours return if you're not rushing, plus time to sit about at the top with a flask.

Free to access, naturally - it's open fell. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so bring water and something to eat. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be quieter than weekend afternoons. Spring and autumn are best; winter can get muddy, and summer midges can be relentless if there's no breeze.

For a caravan holiday in the area, Low Pike works well as a day out from Westgate or White House & Hagg Bridge. It's close enough that you're not spending half the day driving, but proper enough to feel like you've done something. Pair it with a walk around nearby Weardale villages or tackle some of the other local heights if you're after more ambitious terrain.