Peat Moor Hill

The walk up Peat Moor Hill rewards you with expansive views across the Pennines, though it's not a destination that'll take your breath away in the conventional sense. Near Barnard Castle, this moorland summit sits at a decent elevation and gives you proper perspective on the rolling terrain that defines County Durham's wilder reaches.

It's a straightforward fell walk rather than a technical scramble. The terrain underfoot is what you'd expect from moorland - boggy in places, firmer on the ridge itself. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip depending on your pace and where you park. There's nothing fancy up here, no visitor centre or refreshments, just open country and distance.

This appeals most to walkers after a genuine moorland experience rather than a manicured tourist attraction. Families with older kids who don't mind getting muddy will find it rewarding. On a clear day the views justify the effort; in mist, you're mainly walking through cloud wondering why you didn't pick something lower.

If you're based at The Old Armoury Campsite just down the road, Peat Moor Hill makes a solid morning or afternoon excursion. It complements a wider exploration of the Teesdale area nicely - Barnard Castle itself deserves a proper look, and the moorland walks around here are genuinely good rather than Instagram-famous. Bring a map, waterproofs, and reasonable boots. The weather changes quickly up here.