Raven's Castle

The walk up to Raven's Castle takes you through proper limestone moorland above Settle, and the payoff is exactly what you'd hope for - a craggy outcrop with views that stretch for miles across the Yorkshire Dales. It's not a castle in any traditional sense, mind you. What you get is a dramatic rock formation that's been a landmark around these parts for centuries, and the sort of spot where you understand why someone decided to give it that name.

Allow a solid couple of hours for the round trip from Settle, depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top. The climb isn't vicious, but it's steady enough that kids under about eight might find it a bit of a slog. Once you're there, though, the scramble up the final rocks is the kind of thing that makes a family outing feel like an actual adventure rather than a trudge.

Summer's your best bet weather-wise, but autumn brings clearer skies and fewer midges. The whole thing works brilliantly as part of a broader Dales walking holiday - you're well positioned for the campgrounds around here. Orcaber Farm, Peaks and Pods, and The Dalesbridge are all within easy striking distance and genuinely decent bases for exploring the area. Get up early, do the walk before the day gets hot, and you'll have the place largely to yourself. It's straightforward fell walking rather than anything technical, and absolutely free.