Wicking Crag

Standing 400 metres above sea level, this rocky outcrop delivers some of the finest views across the Aire Valley you'll find anywhere in West Yorkshire. The panorama sweeps from Bradford's urban sprawl right across to the Yorkshire Dales on clear days, with Ilkley Moor dominating the southern horizon.

Getting here requires a proper walk - it's not one for the car park crowd. Most people approach from Shipley via the woodland paths that wind up through Harden Moor, though experienced walkers often tackle it as part of longer routes across the local fells. The final scramble to the actual crag is a bit scrambly but nothing too taxing.

Photographers and fell walkers get the most from Wicking Crag, particularly on those crisp winter mornings when the air's clear enough to pick out individual peaks in the distance. Families with older children who don't mind a decent hike will find it rewarding, but toddlers definitely won't make it up here.

Allow at least two hours for the round trip from Shipley, longer if you're planning to linger and soak up the views. Early morning or late afternoon light shows the valley at its best. If you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Shipley like Dobrudden or Esholt, it makes for an excellent day's walking challenge that'll certainly earn you that evening pint.