Whorl Hill

The walk up to Whorl Hill rewards you with proper countryside views across North Yorkshire, though it's not a dramatic summit by any means. From Northallerton, you're looking at a modest peak that works brilliantly as a half-day outing rather than a destination in itself.

It's the kind of place where you'll see locals out with dogs rather than coachloads of tourists. The climb takes maybe 45 minutes to an hour depending on your pace and fitness, and once up top you get sight lines across the Vale of Mowbray. On a clear day it's worth the effort; on a misty one, less so. Families with younger kids might find the steep sections a bit tedious, but keen walkers treating it as part of a longer loop will appreciate the gentle terrain.

If you're camping at Whorlton Pods - just under a mile away - this becomes an obvious evening walk or morning stretch. The proximity makes it ideal for breaking up a static holiday. Cote Ghyll, slightly further out, also uses it well as part of exploring the wider area around Northallerton.

There's no visitor centre or facilities on the hill itself, so bring water and dress for the weather. Free to access, naturally. Go on a weekday morning if you want solitude. The real value here is as a practical addition to a park stay rather than as a standalone trip worth planning your holiday around.