Wansfell Pike

From Ambleside, this fell looks deceptively gentle - a proper starter mountain for families wanting their first taste of Lake District heights. The walk up takes about an hour and a half from the town centre, following well-marked paths through Stock Ghyll Force before the final push to the summit at 482 metres.

What makes Wansfell Pike brilliant for novice walkers is the reward-to-effort ratio. You'll get proper mountain views over Windermere and the central fells without needing crampons or mountain rescue on speed dial. Kids aged eight and up should manage it fine, though the last section does get a bit steep.

The views from the top are genuinely lovely - Lake Windermere stretches out below like a massive mirror, with the Langdale Pikes rising dramatically to the west. On clear days you can pick out Helvellyn and the eastern fells too. It's free, obviously, and accessible year-round though winter conditions need proper kit.

For families staying at nearby parks like Lakeside Retreat Glamping or the Parkdean sites around Windermere, this makes a cracking half-day adventure. You could easily combine it with a morning in Ambleside's shops and cafes. Just don't expect solitude at weekends - this is one of the Lakes' most popular short walks for good reason.