Robert's Seat

The walk up to Robert's Seat, near Richmond, is straightforward enough - nothing technical, just a steady climb that takes the best part of an hour from the valley bottom. Once you're there, you get proper views across Swaledale and beyond, the kind that make you understand why someone bothered naming the spot in the first place.

It's a fell top rather than a mountain, so don't expect Alpine drama. What you get instead is that rolling Pennine landscape - green, quiet, and genuinely peaceful once the weekend crowds thin out. On a clear day you can see a fair distance, which makes it worth the effort. The summit itself is unremarkable - a cairn and some rough moorland - but the approach is pleasant enough, winding through woodland and open fell.

Family groups will manage this without trouble if the kids have decent boots and don't mind a proper walk. It's not a stroll, but it's not a slog either. Allow a couple of hours return, longer if you're taking it slow or stopping for photos. Go midweek if you can - the weekends bring walkers, and the narrow paths get a bit congested.

If you're basing yourself at Usha Gap Farm or Gillcumber Glamping nearby, this makes a natural half-day outing. It pairs well with exploring Richmond itself, which has genuine character and decent pubs. Worth doing, proper views, nothing fancy - just a good honest climb.