Long Hill

Long Hill rises up from the Durham moorland with proper commanding views across Weardale. It's the sort of walk that rewards you without being brutal - the ascent is steady rather than punishing, and the summit cairn sits at around 500 metres, giving you sight lines all the way to the Pennines on a clear day.

This is walker territory, no question. You're looking at a straightforward two to three hours round trip depending on your pace and where you start from near Bishop Auckland. The actual peak is uncluttered - just stone and grass and the kind of wind that makes you grateful for layers. On a crisp autumn morning it's genuinely stunning. In thick cloud it becomes less inspiring, so timing matters.

The walk appeals to anyone who enjoys proper moorland rather than woodland rambling. Families with older kids handle it fine. Young children might struggle with the distance, and it's not a spot where you can dawdle - there's not much to occupy you once you're up there besides the view.

Several caravan parks cluster within a few miles - Belle Vue Farm and Greenfoot Holiday Home Park are closest, both under 2.5 miles away. They make decent bases for exploring this corner of Durham. The moorland walking here connects to broader routes across Weardale, so Long Hill works well as part of a longer trip rather than a standalone detour.

Admission is free. Just go equipped for weather change - the forecast can shift fast up here.