Swarth Fell Stone Circle

Getting to Swarth Fell Stone Circle isn't straightforward, and that's rather the point. This Bronze Age ring sits on the fells above Penrith, a proper walk from the nearest car park, and the effort involved means you won't find crowds here.

The circle itself consists of around twenty stones arranged in a rough ring - nothing as dramatic as Stonehenge, but there's something about standing among Bronze Age monuments on open moorland that does hit differently. You're looking at stones that have been here for roughly 3,500 years, weathered and shifted by centuries of fell weather. The views across the Eden Valley are substantial too.

This appeals most to walkers and archaeology enthusiasts willing to put in legwork. Families with young kids might find the trek a bit much unless they're seasoned hikers already. Allow a couple of hours minimum including the walk itself. There's no visitor centre or facilities - bring water and appropriate footwear. It's free to visit, naturally, since it's just sitting on the fell.

If you're staying at Park Foot or Ullswater Holiday Parks near Penrith, this makes a cracking half-day outing combined with other walking in the area. The location puts you within reach of proper Lake District hiking, but Swarth Fell itself feels wilder and less visited than the honeypot peaks. Spring through autumn works best - winter access depends on weather and your boot stamina.