Wardla Hill

The walk up Wardla Hill from Ilkley is properly straightforward, and the views across the Wharfe Valley make it well worth the effort. You're looking at moorland walking terrain - nothing technical, just steady climbing through heather and grass with the edge of the moors opening up as you gain height. Most people manage the ascent in under an hour, and the summit itself is a cracking spot to stop for a brew and a sandwich.

This one appeals to families who want something more engaging than a park stroll, and to walkers using Ilkley as a base. The panorama from the top sweeps across the valley and surrounding peaks - on a clear day you'll spot the distinctive shapes of Pen-y-ghent and Whernside in the distance. The moorland feels properly remote despite being just outside town, which is the whole charm of this part of Yorkshire.

If you're staying at Brown Bank Caravan Park or Breaks Fold Farm Glamping, you're ideally placed for exploring this walk and the broader Wharfe Valley. The gradient's gentle enough that reasonably fit kids won't struggle, though younger children might need a bit more encouragement. Allow two to three hours for a leisurely round trip, including time at the top. There's no café up there, so bring water and snacks. Early morning walks catch the light beautifully and you'll likely have the summit largely to yourself - vastly better than arriving midday when the crowds from town roll in.