Lochbank Hill

The walk up Lochbank Hill rewards you with proper views across Dumfries and the Nith Valley - nothing fancy, but clean and wide-ranging from the 1,203-foot summit. It's a straightforward climb without any scrambling involved, taking most people between 45 minutes and an hour from the car park. The terrain is manageable, mostly rough grass and moorland underfoot, though it can be boggy in wet weather so decent boots are essential.

This one works best for walkers who want something achievable without massive commitment. Families with kids aged eight or so upwards won't struggle with it, though younger ones might find the last stretch a bit steep. The views alone aren't dramatic enough to justify a special trip from miles away, but if you're staying at one of the caravan parks near Dumfries - Beeswing is just two miles away, Marthrown of Mabie even closer - it's absolutely worth tackling as part of a morning outing.

There's no charge, no visitor centre, and no facilities to speak of once you leave the car park. Best visited in decent weather when the cloud's lifted. An hour, maybe 90 minutes if you linger at the top, then you're back down time for lunch. Pair it with exploring Dumfries itself or neighbouring Criffel if you want a bigger day out. The hill itself is quiet and genuine - no commercialism, just a solid Lowland walk.