Pike Low

The walk up Pike Low rewards you with proper Cheshire views - moorland rolling away in all directions, with the Peak District lurking on the horizon. It's not a dramatic summit by any means, but the climb from Macclesfield side is straightforward enough that families with decent walkers won't struggle, and the return takes maybe two hours all in.

What you get is space. Real, breathing space without the crowds you'd find on Peak District peaks proper. The moorland itself is bare and windswept - bring a jacket even on decent days - and the paths are well-trodden enough to follow without faffing about with maps. On clear days the views stretch far enough to make the effort worthwhile. On grey days it's a bit bleak, if you're honest, but there's something satisfying about that too.

Historically minded visitors won't find much to explore up there beyond a Bronze Age barrow mound, though the landscape tells its own story if you're into that sort of thing. Children under eight will probably find it dull - there's not much to discover or clamber on - but older kids who like proper walks will get something from it.

Stay at Eastwood End Caravan Park, just three miles away, and you've got a solid base for exploring the moorlands. Buxton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is slightly further but highly rated if you want to combine this with proper Peak District walks. The walk is free and best tackled mid-week when you won't be sharing the path with half of Manchester.