Round Hill

The walk up Round Hill near Thornhill takes about forty minutes if you're not dawdling, and the effort pays off with views across the Lowlands that stretch for miles on a clear day. It's a proper hill rather than a mountain - 1,480 feet - but don't let that fool you into thinking it's a stroll. The path climbs steadily through mixed woodland before opening onto moorland, and the final push is genuinely steep.

What makes it worthwhile is the relative solitude. You won't fight crowds here like you might at better-known peaks. On top you get a trig point and genuine 360-degree views - the Nithsdale valley below, the Southern Uplands rolling away, and on a decent day, you can see right across into England. Families with older children will manage it fine, though younger legs might struggle with the gradient. It's a good two to three hour outing with breaks.

If you're staying at Penpont Holiday Park just down the road, this makes an excellent half-day walk. Red Squirrel Campsite is a touch further out, but still within reasonable driving distance if you fancy breaking up your holiday with some proper hiking. Spring and autumn are best - the summer midges can be vicious up there, and winter access depends on the weather. There's no facilities on the hill itself, so pack water and snacks. Free to access, naturally. Worth the trip if you like earning your views without the tourist infrastructure.