Millennium Fish Cross

Carved stone crosses don't get much more mysterious than this one. Standing in a field near Penrith, the Millennium Fish Cross is exactly what it sounds like - a contemporary stone cross decorated with fish symbols, erected to mark the year 2000. The craftsmanship is impressive, with detailed Celtic-style knotwork and clear fish carvings that catch the light beautifully on a sunny day.

History buffs might find it interesting as a modern addition to Cumbria's long tradition of carved crosses, though it lacks the ancient gravitas of its medieval counterparts. The surrounding countryside is lovely enough, with views across to the distant fells, but this isn't really a destination in itself. Families staying at nearby Park Foot Holiday Park or Ullswater Holiday Park could easily walk here as part of a longer countryside ramble, though younger children might wonder what all the fuss is about after five minutes of admiring carved fish.

Access appears to be free, as it stands on what looks like common land, though parking might require a bit of roadside creativity. Allow fifteen minutes unless you're particularly taken with modern ecclesiastical art. Worth combining with a visit to Penrith's proper medieval sites or a walk around Ullswater for a fuller day out.