Tarnhow Hill

The walk up Tarnhow Hill delivers proper views across the Pennines and the Teesdale valley - the kind of vista that makes the effort worthwhile, especially on a clear day. It's a straightforward fell rather than a technical climb, which means families with decent walkers in tow can manage it without needing specialist kit.

From the top, you're looking out over County Durham's moorland and towards the Pennine ridge. The actual summit isn't dramatic - no cairn drama or panoramic shelter - but the expansiveness of the landscape around Barnard Castle justifies the trek. Reckon on two to three hours round trip depending on your pace and how long you want to linger.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It's the sort of hill that works brilliantly as part of a longer route through Teesdale rather than a standalone trip, though if you're staying at The Old Armoury Campsite just a few miles south, it makes a solid morning or afternoon outing. The Barnard Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site is also nearby if you're basing yourself in the area for a few days.

There's no visitor centre or facilities at the top, so bring water and snacks. The moorland paths can get boggy after rain, so waterproof boots are worth the pack space. Best visited in the warmer months when daylight stretches longer and the ground's less waterlogged. Kids under eight or so might find the ascent tedious unless they're keen hikers already.