Middlehope Moor

The walk up Middlehope Moor isn't particularly long, but it's relentless. You're climbing moorland between Bishop Auckland and Weardale, gradually gaining height until the landscape opens up and you realise why people bother making the trek. From the top, the views stretch across the Pennines - proper bleak and beautiful in that way the North East does so well. On clear days you can see for miles across rolling moorland and fell country.

This isn't a destination for casual strollers. It's a walkers' moor, best tackled by people who actually like climbing and don't mind getting their boots muddy. Families might find it a bit much unless the kids are already used to fell walking - there's no summit building or cafe to reward your effort, just space and views and the sound of wind. That said, the moorland itself is genuinely wild, and if you're staying at Westgate Caravan & Camping Site nearby, it's well worth adding to your itinerary.

The best time to visit is May through September when the weather's more forgiving. Allow two to three hours return depending on your pace. There's no charge for access, and you can start from several points around the moor - just park sensibly near Bishop Auckland and head out. It works brilliantly as part of a wider Weardale or Pennine walk if you're exploring the area over a few days. The moor is properly exposed, so check conditions before you go.