Swarthy Hill

The walk up Swarthy Hill from Maryport isn't long, but it's steep enough to get your calves working. Once you're up there, the view across the Solway Firth towards Scotland is genuinely worth the effort - on a clear day you can see right across to the hills beyond. It's a proper fell walk rather than a stroll, so bring decent boots and something to drink.

This is the sort of place that works best for walkers who know what they're doing. You're looking at maybe ninety minutes round trip from Maryport town centre, which makes it a cracking morning or afternoon out if you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby - Harbour Side is closest at just over three miles away. The fell itself is moorland, so it can be boggy after rain and the path isn't always obvious, but that's part of its appeal. It doesn't get rammed with day-trippers the way some Lake District peaks do.

Kids might find it a bit of a slog unless they're used to fell walking, and there's no cafe or facilities at the top. What you get is solitude and views, plus the satisfaction of earning them. Free to visit, obviously - it's common fell land. If you're breaking up a caravan holiday with some decent walks, this beats the obvious tourist traps. Go early or late in the day if you want to avoid any other walkers, though even then it's rarely crowded.