Killywan Hill

Standing at 421 metres, this modest summit offers surprisingly good views across the Solway Firth towards the Lake District fells on a clear day. The walk up from the nearest parking spot takes about 45 minutes through typical Galloway countryside - a mix of rough pasture and patches of woodland that can get properly boggy after rain.

Hikers looking for a decent morning stretch will find this hill fits the bill perfectly. It's not a challenging climb by any stretch, making it suitable for reasonably fit families with older children, though the pathless final approach might frustrate anyone expecting a well-defined route to the top.

The summit itself is marked by a small cairn and offers 360-degree views when the weather plays ball. On my visit, the mist rolled in just as I reached the top, which rather defeated the point. Worth checking the forecast before setting off.

From holiday parks around Dumfries, Killywan Hill makes for a straightforward half-day excursion. Brandedleys and the other sites along the A710 put you within easy driving distance, and you'll be back in time for lunch. Allow three hours including the drive from central Dumfries. Best tackled in dry conditions - those grassy slopes turn treacherous when wet.