No need for blood, sweat or tears here, as the smiles break out on the easier edge of the Southern Uplands ’ Galloway Hills.

NEWCASTLE AND MARDU CIRCULAR Level Easy Elevation gain 217m Length 6.1km (1hr 49min) Description This round-the-hill loop trail from Newcastle leads through peaceful rural landscapes and small village

11.2km / 7 miles / 7 hours Ascent 1177m/3863ft

Swaledale isn’t all barns and drystone walls... This Yorkshire Dales walk takes you over open moors to discover the local mining heritage.

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

Jeremy Ellwood ticks three more courses off his list in this northerly Scottish county, which is blessed with golf aplenty both on the coast and a little inland