Steeling Hill

The walk up Steeling Hill from Skipton isn't long, but it's steep enough to make you work for the views. Once you're up there, you get a proper sense of the Pennines rolling away in every direction - that's the real reward. The peak itself is modest compared to the big Lake District fells, but that's rather the point. You're not queuing with hundreds of others or navigating manicured paths.

It's a solid choice for walkers wanting a couple of hours out rather than a full day commitment. The terrain is moorland and grass underfoot, straightforward navigation if you know what you're doing. Families with decent hill legs can manage it fine, though younger kids might find the gradient tedious on the way back down. History buffs get less from Steeling Hill than they might from other Lancashire peaks, but that doesn't matter if you're after fresh air and exercise.

The walk is free, naturally - it's open moorland. Allow two to three hours round trip depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top. Summer weekends bring more footfall, but nothing excessive. If you're staying at one of the glamping spots nearby - Thornton Hall Country Park is four and a half miles away, or Malham Glamping Pods closer to five - this makes an easy morning or late-afternoon outing before supper. It won't blow your mind, but it's honest moorland walking within spitting distance of Skipton.