Black Hill

Standing at 582 metres, this modest peak offers surprisingly decent views across the Yorkshire Dales without the crowds you'll find on Pen-y-ghent or Ingleborough. The climb from the nearest parking spot takes about 45 minutes at a steady pace - not exactly challenging but enough to get the blood flowing.

Families with older children (say 8+) will manage fine, though toddlers might find the rocky sections near the top a bit much. The path can get boggy after rain, so proper boots are essential. What makes Black Hill worth the effort is the 360-degree panorama from the summit - on a clear day you can see right across to the Lake District fells.

There's no admission fee, naturally, and you can tackle it any time of year, though winter conditions require proper gear. The whole outing takes around two hours including a decent break at the top. It's a proper Yorkshire Dales experience without the tourist buses.

For families staying at one of the nearby sites like Hillside Caravan Park or Woodhouse Farm Holiday Park, this makes a cracking half-day adventure. The drive from Thirsk takes about 20 minutes, making it an easy addition to a Dales holiday. Keen walkers often use it as a warm-up before tackling the Three Peaks, though it's perfectly satisfying on its own.