Seven Sisters

The River Wear has carved out something rather dramatic near Durham - seven limestone cliffs that rise sheer from the water like the prow of a ship. They're not enormous, but there's something about their sudden verticality that catches you off guard when you round the bend.

You'll walk here, not drive. The approach is from the Durham side along a proper riverside path that threads through woodland. It takes about twenty minutes on foot from the town centre, and the cliffs only reveal themselves once you're right upon them. Worth the leg work if you're already exploring Durham's riverside.

Geologically, this is old stuff - the Carboniferous period is doing the talking here. Walkers and kayakers make the most of it. The water below is deep enough for paddling, and the cliffs themselves are popular with climbers, though you'll want permission and proper kit if that's your game. For families, it's a decent photo stop and somewhere to sit on the banks with a flask, though kids won't spend hours here unless they're the contemplative type.

If you're staying at The Barn at Easington nearby, it's an easy morning excursion before heading elsewhere. The real magic is how the light hits the stone in late afternoon - come then and you'll understand why locals make the journey. Allow an hour including the walk there and back. No facilities to speak of, so bring what you need.