Winter Hill

Winter Hill rises 456 metres above the moorland north of Blackburn, topped with a television transmitter that's visible for miles. It's less a destination and more an excuse for a proper moorland walk, and that's exactly what makes it worthwhile.

The climb itself is straightforward - roughly forty minutes from the car park to the summit if you're moving at a decent pace. The views across Lancashire and into the Pennines open up as you gain height, and on a clear day you can see right across to the Welsh hills. The transmitter is functional rather than beautiful, but the plateau around it gives you space to breathe and take in the landscape. Walkers will get the most from Winter Hill. It's exposed moorland walking - nothing technical but genuinely bracing, especially when the wind's up. Families with older kids who don't mind a bit of effort will find it manageable; younger children might struggle with the moorland terrain and lack of defined paths in places.

Head up in the morning if possible. Afternoon mist rolls in regularly and can swallow the views entirely. The summit itself is free and open year-round, though the car park access depends on local conditions in winter. Allow at least two hours return including a breather at the top.

It pairs well with a stay at Northwood Caravan & Holiday Park, just five miles south, which gives you a good base for exploring the West Pennine Moors. Come for the exercise, stay for the clear-air feeling you get up there.