Jacob's Ladder

Clinging to a hillside near Ashbourne, this ancient stone staircase cuts a dramatic line up the steep slope like something from a medieval fairy tale. Jacob's Ladder is one of those proper old packhorse routes - 17th-century steps carved into the rock that traders once used to haul goods between the valleys.

Walkers and history enthusiasts will get the biggest kick out of this one. The climb itself is fairly short but steep enough to get your heart pumping, and the views across the Derbyshire countryside from the top are well worth the effort. Kids might enjoy the novelty of the stone steps, though they'll probably be more interested in scrambling about than contemplating the historical significance.

It's free to visit and you can tackle it any time of year, though the stones can get slippery when wet. Allow about 30 minutes for the round trip if you're taking your time and soaking up the atmosphere.

If you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Ashbourne - Sandybrook Lodges or Callow Top are both within easy driving distance - this makes a lovely morning excursion before heading off to explore more of the Peak District. Just don't expect anything too grand; it's more about the journey than the destination, and the satisfaction of following in centuries-old footsteps.