Sleighgate Hill

The walk up Sleighgate Hill from Kirkby Stephen doesn't take long, but it gives you proper views across Westmorland that justify the effort. You're looking down into the Eden Valley, the sort of perspective that makes you understand why people actually chose to live in these valleys rather than anywhere flatter. On a clear day you can pick out the shape of the landscape for miles.

It's a straightforward fell walk - nothing technical, nothing that needs specialist kit. The path is well-used and the gradient is manageable enough that reasonably fit families will get up and back down in under two hours without struggle. That said, it's exposed at the top, so wind can make it feel wilder than the height suggests. Bring a windproof.

Who should come here? Walkers basing themselves around Kirkby Stephen for a few days. People who want to see the bones of the landscape without committing to a full day on the higher peaks. It's the sort of hill you'd do in the morning and still have time for lunch and a look round town afterwards.

Staying at Gillcumber Glamping Pods - just over three miles away - gives you a proper rural base for exploring this bit of the Pennines. Sleighgate Hill is close enough for an easy start to your day, and it gives you the kind of introduction to the valley walks that makes you want to go further afield.