Brownley Hill

The walk up Brownley Hill rewards you with one of those proper expansive views across Northumberland that makes the climb feel worth every step. It's a modest height as peaks go, but what it lacks in elevation it makes up for in the sweep of countryside from the summit - moorland rolling out in all directions, and on a clear day you can trace the lie of the land for miles.

This is one for walkers rather than casual visitors. There's no visitor centre or tearoom, just you and the fell. The terrain is typical upland Northumberland - open grassland with the occasional crag, nothing technical but you'll want proper boots. Allow two to three hours from Hexham, depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top.

Families with capable walkers will enjoy it, though younger legs might find it tedious if you're not careful with your timing. It's a solid half-day out rather than an all-day commitment. Go on a clear morning - the light is better and the visibility cuts through the haze that can settle over the moors in afternoon.

If you're staying at Langley Dam Glamping nearby, it makes a straightforward outing. The peak fits well into a broader walking itinerary around Hexham - it's not a standalone destination, but rather part of exploring what the North Pennines offer. Free, obviously. No fees, no fuss, just access to open country.