Ring Hill

The walk up Ring Hill from Newton Stewart is properly rewarding, especially if you're after a decent half-day outing without the slog of the bigger peaks. It's not spectacularly high, but the views across Dumfries and Galloway open up nicely once you're at the top, and you get that satisfying sense of having earned them.

The path itself is straightforward - no technical scrambling, just a steady climb through the landscape surrounding Newton Stewart. The terrain varies enough to keep things interesting, and on a clear day you can pick out the contours of the surrounding countryside with decent clarity. It's the sort of walk that suits families with older kids and anyone who wants a proper leg-stretch without committing to a full fell day.

Allow about two hours there and back, depending on your pace and how long you fancy lingering at the summit. There's not much in the way of facilities up top, so bring water and something to eat if you're planning to sit for a bit. The best time is probably late spring through early autumn when the ground underfoot is decent.

If you're staying at Drumroamin Farm - literally just down the road - this is an ideal morning walk before breakfast or an afternoon option if the weather holds. It's close enough to pop out for without faffing about with transport, which counts for something when you're on a park holiday. The walking's straightforward enough that it won't leave you shattered for other activities later.