The Helm

Standing at 244 metres, this modest fell just south of Kendal delivers surprisingly good views for such a short climb. The Helm won't trouble serious fell walkers - you can reach the summit in well under an hour from the town - but that's precisely its charm.

Families with children will find this a proper introduction to Lake District walking without the drama of higher peaks. The path winds through pleasant woodland before opening onto the grassy summit, where you're rewarded with sweeping views across Kendal and the Kent Valley. On a clear day, you can spot the higher fells of the central Lakes beckoning in the distance.

What makes The Helm particularly appealing is its accessibility. You can practically walk here from Kendal town centre, making it ideal for those staying at nearby sites like Kendal Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite or The Ashes Caravan Park. It's a lovely morning stretch-the-legs walk that leaves the rest of your day free for other Lake District adventures.

The summit itself is nothing spectacular - essentially a grassy mound with a trig point - but walkers seeking a gentle warm-up before tackling the bigger hills will appreciate the modest challenge. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip, and you'll likely have it largely to yourself outside peak summer weekends.