Blackhill

The walk up Blackhill from Lanark takes about forty minutes if you're not dawdling, and the views across South Lanarkshire justify every steep bit of the climb. It's a proper hill rather than a mountain - 739 metres - but don't let that fool you into thinking it's easy. The path gets genuinely boggy in places, especially after rain, so decent boots matter more than you'd think.

Once you're up there, the Scottish Lowlands spread out below you in a way that makes the effort feel worthwhile. On a clear day you can see for miles. The summit's not dramatic - no dramatic cairn or shelter - but that's partly what makes it good. You get the satisfaction of having climbed something without the crowds.

This is a walk for people who actually like walking rather than those just ticking off Instagram spots. Give it two hours for the round trip if you're a steady pace, longer if you're photographing or just sitting about catching your breath. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might find it dull once they're done climbing.

If you're staying at Ecosse Glamping nearby, it's an excellent half-day option that doesn't eat into your whole afternoon. The walk starts from accessible points around Lanark itself, making it straightforward to fit in alongside exploring the town. Wet weather can turn the return journey into a proper slog, so pick a decent day when you can.