The Snouts

The Snouts is a proper fell-walking destination that rewards effort with views across County Durham that stretch for miles on a clear day. It's essentially a rocky outcrop with two distinct peaks - the name alone tells you what to expect when you see them jutting out of the moorland. The walk up from Bishop Auckland side takes a decent hour or so depending on fitness, but it's the kind of climb that feels genuinely earned once you're stood up there.

This is walkers' territory, no question. You won't find a café or visitor centre or anything like that - it's just you, the wind, and panoramic views of the Pennines and the surrounding fells. Families with older kids who can manage a moorland hike will get something out of it, but toddlers will struggle and frankly get bored before the summit. The ground's rough and boggy in places, so proper boots are essential.

If you're staying at Westgate Caravan & Camping Site just a few miles away, this makes a cracking half-day excursion. There's no charge to visit - it's open access moorland. Go when the weather's decent though. I've stood up there in driving rain and could barely see my boots, let alone the view. Early morning in autumn is when it's at its best, golden light and crisp air pushing the clouds back.