Steely Crag

The walk up Steely Crag rewards you with proper views across the Cheviot Hills - the kind where you can see for miles on a clear day. It's a straightforward climb from Wooler, steep enough to get the heart going but nothing that needs specialist kit or a guide.

You're looking at roughly two hours round trip depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. The summit itself is fairly exposed, so wind can be a factor - take a windproof even when it looks calm in the valley. On a decent day though, standing up there with the North Pennines and Scottish borders stretching out, it's exactly why you came to Northumberland.

Families with older kids will manage it fine. Younger ones might struggle with the gradient and loose stone sections, so be realistic about ages. It's the sort of walk where you feel like you've actually done something, not just strolled about taking photos.

The nearest town, Wooler, sits right at the foot of the hills and has the basics - cafes, a couple of pubs, shops. Highburn House Caravan Park is less than three miles away and rated well, so you could base yourself there and tick off a few peaks in the area without moving far. Riverside Wooler Holiday Park is another option if you're after caravanning or glamping.

Go early morning if the weather's forecast to hold - cloud comes in fast in these hills. Bring water and decent boots. It's free, obviously, being a fell.