Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill, Peak District
Peak aficionados favour Mam Tor and the Great Ridge, but for something quieter, these two mini-mountains offer an equally pleasing climb. Set in the lush pastures of the White Peak and formed from the calcified remains of enormous coral reefs, they are home to varied flora and fauna including hoverflies, butterflies and rare lichen. Loop between Chrome Hill’s spiny summit – known as the “Dragon’s Back of the Peak District” – over to scrambly Parkhouse Hill, or simply settle for the shorter Chrome Hill climb: either way, you’ll enjoy fantastic Peak District panoramas.
The route is five miles long and is moderate to easy, with a summit of 1,500ft (peakdistrictwalks.net). Stay at the historic Palace Hotel Buxton & Spa, which has comfortable rooms and an indoor pool; doubles from £45 B&B, britanniahotels.com
