Thornberry Hill

The walk up Thornberry Hill rewards you with proper views across the Wharfe Valley - the kind that make you understand why people bother with the Yorkshire hills in the first place. It's not particularly high or dramatic, which means you won't spend hours scrambling up loose scree, but that's rather the point. From Otley, it's a manageable afternoon venture that takes you through decent moorland without the crowds you'd find on the bigger peaks.

The climb itself is straightforward enough, taking roughly an hour depending on fitness and how often you stop to catch your breath. The path is well-trodden, though muddy patches appear after rain - proper hiking boots recommended. Once you're up top, you get that satisfying moment of being above the surrounding landscape, with views stretching towards the Pennines on a clear day. In winter or late autumn the light is particularly good, painting the valley in that distinctive Yorkshire gold.

Walkers will find this worthwhile; families with older kids too, though younger ones might flag before reaching the summit. History enthusiasts won't find much to detain them - it's landscape rather than heritage. If you're camping nearby at Fairmead Farm Glamping or Clarion Lodge, both within three miles, this makes an excellent morning outing before heading to Moor Valley Country Park for the afternoon. The access is free and unrestricted, which is how it should be. Allow two to three hours including the descent, and go early if the weather's decent.