Summerhouse Hill

Summerhouse Hill is a proper fell walk rather than a destination with facilities, so go in with realistic expectations. You're looking at a straightforward peak walk from Barnard Castle, rewarding you with views across Teesdale that justify the climb. The summit itself is unremarkable - moorland and grass rather than dramatic rockery - but the walk there and back is solid going for a couple of hours if you're moderately fit.

It works best for walkers who actually enjoy walking, not people expecting a scenic viewpoint car park. Families with younger kids might find the ascent tedious without the payoff of a dramatic vista or summit shelter. Once you're up, the views stretch nicely across the dale, but they're not the sort of thing that'll stop you dead in your tracks.

There's no charge and no facilities on the hill itself. Start early if you're going, especially in winter when daylight runs short. The walk takes around two to two and a half hours depending on your pace and which route you pick. It fits well as a morning outing if you're based at one of the local campsites - Teesdale or Barnard Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site are both within reasonable distance.

The real value here is combining it with other walks in the area or spending time in Barnard Castle itself, which has the castle ruins and decent enough pubs. On its own, Summerhouse Hill is a pleasant hill walk. As part of a walking holiday in Teesdale, it makes sense to tick off while you're in the area.