In reply to Dan Bailey - UKHillwalking.com:
Hi Dan, I'm certainly no expert but I've done a few things there. The south ridge of Carrifran from the foot of the glen is awful, new planting, random pits and jungle, don't do it. I've also been up the middle ridge of Swatte Fell from Blackhope (not as awful but still not great, would be nice in good snow). Hang Gill low down on Swatte Fell was a pleasant accessible easy clamber, barely scrambling. Second the suggestion of the Saddle Yoke ridge up from the foot of Blackhope if you haven't done it, it's lovely. Also the stream going up NE from the head of Blackhope looks nice (and easy).
If you're poking about with kids in that area have you been to Dobb's Linn? 197158, cut across from the top of the road at Birkhill for an easily gained good view and with a bit more effort you can contour round to it (quite steep). Excellent fall, fossils, a cave and ruin that was a covenanter hideout and a legend of a duel with the devil. Going up from the bottom might be an adventure?