Fairfield

Fairfield sits at 863 metres in the heart of the Lake District fells, rising above Penrith like a proper mountain despite being just shy of 3,000 feet. It's not the tallest peak around, but it commands respect. The standard route from Dovedale takes about four hours there and back over terrain that starts gentle through woodland then gets properly steep as you climb. You'll emerge above the tree line onto open fell with views that stretch across the whole central massif - Helvellyn dominates to the south, but on a clear day you can pick out the Solway Firth to the north.

Walkers are the obvious audience here. It's a straightforward fell walk rather than a scramble, though the upper sections demand decent boots and fitness. Families with older kids who've done some Lake District walking already would manage it, but younger children might find the final push tedious. Allow five hours if you're not rushing. Winter transforms it into proper mountaineering terrain - don't attempt this without experience and kit when snow's lying.

There's no charge to climb it. The fell itself is wild open country, so you're free to roam. Penrith makes a logical base, though if you're camping, Lakeside Retreat Glamping (4.7 miles away) has good ratings and sits closer to the Lake District proper. Combine this with circuits of nearby fells - Helvellyn's obvious, but less crowded peaks like Seat Sandal work nicely in a week's walking holiday. Go midweek in summer to dodge the worst of the crowds.