Near Harthorn Crag

The climb up to Harthorn Crag rewards you with views across the Pennines that stretch for miles in every direction. It's not a gentle stroll - the path gets steep towards the top, and the final approach involves proper scrambling if you want to reach the actual summit - but the effort pays off once you're up there.

From the crag itself, you can see right across Wensleydale and towards the higher fells beyond Kirkby Stephen. On a clear day, the visibility is excellent; on a grey one, you'll find yourself wrapped in mist wondering why you bothered. The rocks themselves are dramatic and weathered, and there's that satisfying sense of having properly climbed something rather than just walked to a viewpoint.

This is firmly walkers' territory. Families with young children will struggle with the final sections, but teenagers who can handle rough ground will find it engaging. History buffs won't find much here except the landscape itself - the draw is purely the walk and the views. Allow a good two hours return from the car park near the base.

If you're staying at Gillcumber Glamping Pods or Usha Gap Farm, both within easy driving distance, this makes a proper morning's expedition. Go early if the weather looks dodgy - clouds roll in fast up here. Absolutely worth the trip if you like fell walking and aren't after anything too touristy.