Ashway Moss

The walk up Ashway Moss rewards you with genuine moorland solitude, the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think. It's a modest peak by Pennine standards, but that's rather the point - the climb from Greenfield is straightforward enough that you won't spend the whole time cursing your life choices, yet steep enough to feel like proper work.

The summit gives you what you came for: wide views across the Lancashire moorlands, with Dovestone Reservoir visible down below if the weather plays ball. On a clear day the perspective is excellent for getting your bearings across the hills. The terrain is classic Pennine peat bog and grass - bring decent boots, as it gets boggy after rain and you'll sink to your ankles otherwise.

This works brilliantly for hill walkers who want a genuine day out without needing technical kit or hours of slogging. Families with older kids who don't mind wet feet will manage fine. Serious peak-baggers might find it a bit short on drama, but that's not really what Ashway Moss is about.

Allow two to three hours for the round trip depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top. There's no cafe, no visitor centre, no facilities - take water and a sandwich. It's free, naturally. The nearby parks - Dovestone Holiday Park is closest at just over a mile away - make ideal bases. Whitegate and Secret Valley are further afield but still within striking distance if you're planning a proper walking week.