Dunmallard Car Park

Dunmallard Car Park sits just outside Penrith on the shore of Ullswater, and it's one of those places that doesn't sound like much until you actually stand there. It's basically a launching point - somewhere locals and visitors use to access the lake, but what makes it worthwhile is the view itself. You get proper fell-and-water scenery without the walk, which counts for something when the weather's turning or you've got restless kids in tow.

The car park serves walkers heading up into the fells and watersports types after boat access. There's a small beach area and enough space to stretch your legs before tackling a longer hike or just parking up for a brew and a look across the water. It's free to use, and you can spend as little or as long as you like here - twenty minutes to grab the view, or a couple of hours if you're basing yourself nearby.

For families staying at Waterfoot Caravan Park just down the road, or any of the other sites clustered around this corner of Ullswater, Dunmallard works as a quick pit stop rather than a destination in itself. It's not dramatic enough to warrant a special trip from far away, but if you're already in the Lake District, it's worth knowing about. The nearby footpaths are solid - you can head up onto the fells or loop round the lake depending on what you're after. Go early morning for peace, or late afternoon when the light gets interesting.