Ward's Stone (West)

The walk up Ward's Stone rewards you with proper views across the Lune Valley. It's not a dramatic peak - nothing like the fell walking you might do further north - but the moorland ascent from near Lancaster packs more interest than you'd expect for 1,500 feet of climbing.

On a clear day you can see right across to the Lake District fells, which makes the effort worthwhile. The moorland itself is rough going underfoot, boggy in patches, so come prepared with decent boots. Most people allow two to three hours for the full walk and return, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top.

This appeals most to walkers who like a proper half-day expedition without the technical stuff. It's too steep and moorish for young children pushing buggies, but older kids who can manage a sustained uphill will find it satisfying. History types won't find much - it's geology and views rather than archaeology.

The approach works best from the Crook O'Lune area, just outside Lancaster. If you're based at Crook O'Lune Holiday Park, it's practically on your doorstep at five miles away, making it an ideal day's walk. The park itself sits on a meander of the River Lune, so you can combine fell walking with river scenery in one trip.

Go midweek if you can. Weekends bring ramblers by the dozen, and the parking near the trailhead gets tight. Free to walk, obviously - you just need legs and weather luck.