Middle Dodd

The view from Middle Dodd's 654-metre summit takes in the full sweep of Thirlmere reservoir below, with Helvellyn's imposing eastern face dominating the horizon. This modest fell sits just west of Penrith and makes a proper little workout without the crowds that plague the bigger names.

Fell walkers will find Middle Dodd more rewarding than its height suggests. The approach from Thirlspot gives you a steady climb through mixed woodland before opening onto rougher ground. Once you're up there, the panorama stretches from the Pennines in the east right across to the western fells.

Expect to spend around three hours for the round trip from the car park near the A591. It's not technically challenging, but you'll need decent boots and the usual mountain kit. The path can get boggy after rain, and like most Lakeland summits, it's a different beast entirely in winter conditions.

Families with older children who fancy something beyond the tourist trails will get on well here. It's demanding enough to feel like an achievement but won't exhaust anyone with reasonable fitness.

Staying at nearby Lakeside Retreat Glamping puts you perfectly placed for this sort of exploration, while the various parks around Windermere offer easy access to both the quieter eastern fells and the busier central Lakes attractions.