In comparison with mountain ranges overseas and in other parts of Britain, the loftiest parts of our dales and moors seem insignificant if tourist brochures are to be believed.

Nonetheless, we are immensely proud of our dales, fells and moors and there is little doubt that last year’s visit by the Tour de France highlighted the wonders of our English Alps.

That was the name given to part of our northern uplands by JS Fletcher, author of A Picturesque History of Yorkshire (1901).

The relevant hills formed part of the Pennine Range, long described as the backbone of England. It was an area which, at the time of publication of that book, formed the meeting point of four English counties – Yorkshire, Durham, Cumberland and Westmorland. The county boundary changes of 1974 altered all that.

Until then, one of Yorkshire’s highest peaks was within that area – it is Mickle Fell, which rises to 2,591ft, but in the 1974 boundary changes, it was transferred to County Durham. It stands majestically a mile-and-a-half north of Brough, with Cauldron Snout and Cow Green Reservoir not far away. I came across this information while trying to discover the finest view in this region.

The view from Mickle Fell is said to include 30 summits, which each rise to more than 2,000ft above sea level and it is claimed that the mountains of the Lake District can be seen and identified. Skiddaw, Helvellyn and Langdale Pikes are all visible, as well as the outlines of Whernside and Ingleborough in the Dales – in all, a splendid view.

Brimham Rocks, near Pateley Bridge, in Nidderdale, also provide extensive views and it is claimed York Minster can be seen, as well as other features in the Vale of York.

During one visit, I searched for York Minster, but low cloud prevented a successful result, although Brimham’s own rocks demand attention. Many provide amazing balancing acts and when, some years ago, we took our grandchildren, they had a marvellous time galloping around the rock shapes and hiding.

On the subject of York Minster, the top of its central tower affords amazing views of York City and its immediate environs, but this involves a climb of 275 steps with the expectation of long-distance views towards the wolds, dales, moors and coast. The last time I did that, the haze obscured the finest views, but the sight of this ancient city from such a vantage point is worth the effort.

The Yorkshire Dales themselves offer several vantage points, some involving steep climbs, but in all cases the resultant views are worthwhile if only to recognise distant hills, towns, castles, other structures or landscapes.

One of my most enjoyable drives was returning from the Lake District, through Wensleydale from Garsdale Head, down to Leyburn and then to Bedale and Leeming Bar. The long descending route from Garsdale via Hawes, Askrigg and Aysgarth was made all the more enjoyable because my car radio was playing Elgar’s Nimrod from his Enigma Variations.

It was a long time ago, but I think it was my first appreciation of the power of his music. It was perfect for that long view of the wonders of Wensleydale, with its expansive views in the summer evening.

Wensleydale offers more vantage points, a popular one being the famous Shawl at Leyburn, with views towards the splendour and mystery of Penhill and the winding route of the River Ure.

Penhill itself provides spectacular views with the bonus of a folk tale about its giant, while a similar trip through Swaledale via Muker and Gunnerside offers more rugged views of our dales landscape. Richmond is worth a visit, with views from the castle which are said to be breathtaking, overlooking the ancient streets of Richmond and the cascading River Swale.

The Yorkshire coast offers yet more remarkable views, perhaps with the scene from Ravenscar towards Robin Hood’s Bay being the best among many, including the sight of Whitby Abbey from Sandsend. Elevated parts of the North York Moors can also offer tremendous views. One from Bilsdale, at Clay Bank, provides a dazzling night-time panorama of the illuminated industrial Teesside.

One of the most enjoyable drives is from Castleton towards Hutton-le-Hole, with an enormous expanse of Yorkshire before you, while a parking place at Ampleforth Beacon gives a view to Fylingdales early warning station to the east and if you turn around to face the opposite direction, you can see another such establishment at Menwith Hill It presents a combined view of about 65 miles.

This is by no means a comprehensive account of Yorkshire’s finest views but a drive across the Wolds presents some stunning calm scenery, while views of our garden are fascinating.