Noon Stone

Standing stones don't come much more mysterious than this weathered sentinel on Ilkley Moor. The Noon Stone, also known as the Skirtful of Stones, is a Bronze Age monolith that's been marking this windswept spot for over 3,000 years. Getting there involves a proper moorland walk from Ilkley, so come prepared with decent boots and waterproofs.

Walkers and history enthusiasts will get the most from this ancient marker. The stone itself isn't massive - about six feet tall - but its lonely position on the moor gives it real presence. Local legend claims it was used as a sundial, hence the name, though archaeologists reckon it was more likely a territorial boundary or ritual site.

Families with older children who don't mind a hike will enjoy the adventure aspect, though toddlers might find the rough terrain challenging. The walk takes you past other prehistoric sites including cup and ring marks carved into the moorland rocks. Allow at least two hours for the round trip from Ilkley town centre.

Brown Bank Caravan Park and Olicana Park are both within easy reach if you're staying locally. The moor can be bleak in bad weather, so pick a clear day when you can actually see the stone through the Yorkshire mist. Free to visit, naturally, though parking in Ilkley might cost you.