Lamber Low

Standing at 484 metres, this modest Derbyshire peak delivers surprisingly good views across the Staffordshire Moorlands without the crowds you'll find on the bigger hills nearby. The walk up from the roadside takes about twenty minutes through rough moorland - proper walking boots essential as it gets boggy after rain.

From the summit cairn, you can pick out Alton Towers in the distance on clear days, which always amuses the kids. The panorama takes in the Roaches to the west and extends south towards Stoke-on-Trent. It's not spectacular, but perfectly decent for the effort required.

Walkers and families staying at nearby sites like Crowtrees Caravan Site or Common End Farm Campsite will find this a good leg-stretcher. The ascent is gentle enough for reasonably fit children over eight, though they might grumble about the lack of a proper path in places.

Allow an hour and a half return trip, including time at the top for a brew from the flask. Best visited on crisp winter days when visibility is good - summer can be hazy and the moorland gets rather marshy. It's free, obviously, and accessible year-round, though I'd avoid it in thick mist as navigation becomes tricky without clear landmarks.