Grits Hill

Standing at 415 metres, this modest fell offers surprisingly good views across Teesdale without the lung-busting effort of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. The walk up from the minor roads around Barnard Castle is straightforward enough - a gentle gradient through sheep-dotted fields with the odd stone wall to clamber over.

Families with older children will manage it fine, though toddlers might find the return trip a bit much. The summit itself is nothing spectacular - just a grassy dome with a small cairn - but the panorama takes in Raby Castle to the south and the North Pennines stretching away to the west. On a clear day you can spot the distinctive outline of Penhill across in Wensleydale.

It's free walking, obviously, and you'll want to allow about two hours return from wherever you park up. Best avoided in thick mist when navigation becomes tricky across the featureless top.

For those staying at one of the several caravan parks around Barnard Castle, Grits Hill makes a decent half-day outing. Mickleton Mill and Leekworth are closest if you fancy a proper countryside base. The hill won't set your world alight, but it's a pleasant enough stretch of the legs with views that justify the modest effort involved.