Brock Crag

The walk up Brock Crag from Windermere is one of those Lake District climbs that doesn't announce itself loudly, which means you'll often have the summit to yourself. It's not a major peak - you're looking at decent views rather than show-stopping vistas - but the approach through woodland is pleasant enough, and there's something satisfying about bagging a fell that most casual visitors walk straight past.

This is walker territory, pure and simple. You won't find facilities, cafes, or marked trails, so you need to know what you're doing with a map. The rock scrambling near the top keeps things interesting, though nothing technical. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. Spring and early autumn are best - it gets boggy in winter, and summer midges can be vicious.

From the parks around Windermere - Hill of Oaks and Park Cliffe are both within three miles - Brock Crag works well as a half-day outing. You're close enough to base yourself at any of the nearby caravan parks and explore the wider fells without endless driving. It pairs nicely with easier lakeside walks around Windermere itself, or you could tick off a few smaller peaks in a weekend.

Worth doing if you're already staying in the area and fancy something quiet. Skip it if you want dramatic scenery or an Instagram moment - you'll be disappointed. For proper fell walkers with map skills, it's a decent local option.