Mickleber Hill

The walk up Mickleber Hill from Skipton takes you straight into proper Yorkshire moorland - steep enough to make you work for it, but manageable in an afternoon. Once you crest the top, the view across Wharfedale opens up in layers, with the limestone country rolling away towards Malham in the distance. It's the sort of walk that feels more remote than it actually is, even though you're only a few miles from town.

The ascent itself is direct and fairly relentless, so don't expect a gentle ramble. Families with younger children might find it more graft than fun, but teenagers and capable walkers will get real satisfaction from it. The moorland path is well-trodden and reasonably clear, though it can be boggy in wet weather - proper moorland boots are a sensible idea. Allow a good two to three hours for a round trip if you're taking it at a steady pace.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Malham Glamping Pods, Wood Nook, or the Wharfedale Club site are all within easy reach - this makes a solid half-day outing before heading back for a drink. The moorland itself is free to roam, and you'll likely have it mostly to yourself outside weekends. The real appeal here is the walk itself rather than any specific feature at the summit, so go when the weather's decent. Windy and clear beats misty and damp every time.