Moel Marchyria

The walk up Moel Marchyria isn't a particularly famous route, which is actually part of its charm. Starting from near Blaenau Ffestiniog, you're looking at a fairly straightforward trudge uphill through moorland and rough grassland - nothing technical, but it does demand proper footwear and a bit of stamina. The summit sits at around 2,000 feet, and on a clear day you get proper views across Snowdonia. The slate quarries that dominate the landscape around Blaenau become smaller as you gain height, and you can see why people have walked these hills for centuries.

This is one for walkers who want solitude rather than crowds. You won't find tearooms or facilities at the top - it's just you, the wind, and the views. Allow a solid two hours up and back down unless you're dawdling, and go when the weather's settled because the visibility makes all the difference. If it's cloudy, honestly, save yourself the effort.

Families with young children will probably find it a slog. Teenagers who actually like walking? They'll get something from it. It pairs well with staying at Llechwedd Glamping at Plas Weunydd just down the road - close enough that you can do this as a morning walk without much faffing about. The area's mad for slate history, so you could easily combine this with Llechwedd Slate Caverns if you want a proper day out. But Moel Marchyria itself is unvarnished, unmarked, and genuinely quiet. That's the appeal.