Rudyard view point

You climb up to Rudyard viewpoint and suddenly the whole of the Staffordshire moorlands spreads out below you. On a clear day it's genuinely impressive - rolling hills, reservoirs glinting in the distance, and on the best days you can see right across to Wales. The viewpoint itself is straightforward: a designated spot with room to stand and take in the landscape, no faffing about with visitor centres or entrance fees.

It's the sort of place walkers absolutely love. The area around Leek is prime hiking territory, and this makes a logical stop on a longer moorland walk rather than a destination in its own right. You're looking at twenty minutes to half an hour to properly enjoy it - enough time to catch your breath and snap some photos, not enough to get bored. Families with young kids might find it a bit underwhelming unless they're already doing a walk through the area.

Based near Leek, you're well positioned for a proper countryside break. The Hollies is just 3.5 miles away and rates highly with campers, so you could easily build this viewpoint into a day's walking itinerary. Leek Camping and Caravanning Club Site sits 3.6 miles south if you want something more established. Winter visits can be dramatic with low cloud and moody skies, though rain can kill the view entirely. Go in decent weather or don't bother - that's the honest answer.