Mow Cop

The folly at the summit is what draws most people up Mow Cop - a craggy little fortress that looks far grander from a distance than it actually is when you reach it. Built in 1754 as a romantic ruin by a local landowner, it's the sort of thing that made sense to Victorians with money and too much time on their hands. The climb itself is the real reward though. From Stoke-on-Trent it's a quick drive north, and the walk to the summit takes around half an hour depending on your fitness. The path is steep in places but nothing technical - just proper hiking boots and a bit of determination required.

On a clear day the views stretch across the Potteries and towards the Peak District, which is why walkers and history types make the effort. The folly itself is free to wander around, though there's not much to actually do once you're there beyond taking photos and admiring the countryside. Kids can scramble on the stones for ten minutes, but they'll get bored if you linger. Spring and autumn are best - summer brings crowds and the exposed ridge gets windier than expected.

If you're camping at one of the nearby sites like Castle Camping or Yellowstone, Mow Cop makes a solid half-day outing. It pairs well with exploring the wider Cheshire area and the edges of the Peak District. Worth the walk for the views and the quirky Victorian folly, but don't expect to spend hours there.