Whelpstone Crag

The walk up Whelpstone Crag rewards you with proper Pennine views - the kind that make you understand why people keep coming back to the Yorkshire Dales. It's a modest peak by most standards, but that's rather the point. No crowds, no visitor centre, just limestone moorland and the kind of quiet you don't get in more famous spots.

Getting there from Settle takes you through typical dale country - dry stone walls, sheep, the works. The crag itself isn't a technical climb; walkers will find it straightforward enough, though you'll want decent boots for the moorland approach. Allow two to three hours return from the nearest car park, depending on your pace and which route you fancy. There's nothing to pay and no facilities on site, so bring water and snacks.

This works best for people who actually enjoy walking rather than just the idea of it. Families with younger kids might find it a bit much - it's exposed moorland, no shortcuts, and the payoff is views rather than a cafe at the top. But if you're camping at Peaks and Pods or any of the other sites dotted around the area, it's a solid half-day outing that won't leave you tramping round a gift shop afterwards.

The wider landscape here is what matters. Whelpstone sits within easy reach of larger walks and better-known peaks if you need variety - good for a week when you want some days less ambitious than others.