Peat Hill

Standing at 300 metres above sea level, this modest hill offers surprisingly good views across the Solway Firth for relatively little effort. The ascent from Dalbeattie takes about 45 minutes of steady walking through mixed woodland before emerging onto open moorland near the summit.

Families with older children will find it manageable - the path is clear enough, though it gets a bit boggy after rain. Dog walkers seem to love it here, and you'll likely have the summit to yourself on weekdays. The real reward is the panorama stretching south towards the Lake District fells on clear days.

Honestly, it's not going to win any prizes for dramatic scenery, but as a gentle morning walk it does the job well. Allow two hours return if you're taking it steady. The forestry tracks at the base make for easy going, though the final push to the top requires proper walking boots.

For those staying at the holiday parks around Sandyhills Bay or Kippford, it makes a decent alternative to beach days when the weather's not playing ball. Nothing spectacular, but a solid local hill that gives you a proper sense of the surrounding countryside without requiring serious hill-walking experience.