Hart Howe

Hart Howe sits just outside Kendal, offering a proper fell walk rather than a serious alpine slog. You're looking at around 300 metres of elevation - manageable for most people, but steep enough that it doesn't feel like a stroll. The summit itself isn't dramatic, but the views across the Kendal Valley and towards the Lake District's higher peaks are genuinely worth the climb.

This is walker territory, full stop. It's not a destination for young children unless they're already comfortable on rough terrain, and the view from the bottom won't impress anyone who hasn't earned it. The path is well-trodden but exposed in places, so check the weather before heading up.

Allow 90 minutes to two hours for a return trip depending on fitness. There's no admission charge - it's a free public fell. Go early if you're visiting on a weekend, as the car park fills quickly. The walk works brilliantly as a morning jaunt if you're staying at one of the nearby campsites - Damson View Glamping and Lakeland Glamping are both within a couple of miles, making it an easy addition to a wider Lakeland holiday. Windermere Camping is also close by if you're basing yourself there instead.

Timing-wise, spring and early autumn are best. Midwinter sees the paths turn to bog, and high summer can mean crowds. It's the sort of walk that rewards an early start and rewards you properly - proper fell views without needing fell-walking experience.