Powlaw Pike

The walk up Powlaw Pike rewards you with proper moorland views across Weardale - the sort of landscape that reminds you why people bother with the North East. It's not a dramatic summit by any stretch, but the climb itself is straightforward enough that families with older kids won't struggle, and the perspectives over the valley are genuinely good.

You're looking at a moorland walk rather than a technical fell ascent. The terrain is what you'd expect - open hills, rough grass, the occasional boggy patch if you're unlucky with the weather. Allow a couple of hours return trip from the valley floor depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top. It's free to visit, naturally, since it's open moorland.

This works well as part of a wider Weardale walking itinerary. The valley itself has proper character - stone villages, old lead mining heritage, decent stretches of riverside walking if the weather turns. Campers and caravanners based at Heather View or Kingfisher Holiday Parks, both just 3.8 miles away, could easily work this into a day's exploration without it feeling like a detour.

Go when the weather's reasonable - clouds roll in fast over these hills, and the moorland views vanish completely. Early autumn is often your best bet: dry underfoot, clearer skies, fewer midges. Solo walkers and couples get the most from it. Young children might find the exposed moorland a bit dull after the initial novelty wears off.