Arnsbarrow Tarn

The walk to Arnsbarrow Tarn from Ambleside takes you up into proper fell country, and it's one of those small lakes that rewards the effort without demanding anything too demanding. You're looking at a modest, dark water surrounded by steep rocky slopes - the kind of place that feels removed from the tourist circuit even though it's barely a couple of hours' walking.

On a clear day the reflection of the fells in the water is genuinely lovely, and there's something about the quietness that makes it worth the slog. Most walkers heading into the Lakes aim for the bigger draws - Windermere, Coniston Water - which means you won't find yourself queuing. The tarn itself isn't the sort of place to spend half a day; you'll be there for the walk and the views rather than facilities (there aren't any, frankly).

For serious walkers this works nicely as part of a longer fell route, but families with small children might find the approach a bit steep and rocky in places. Ambleside itself is close by, which means you've got proper shops and cafes to warm up in afterwards - essential if the weather turns.

If you're staying at Newby Bridge Country Caravan Park, it's a sensible half-day outing that doesn't require elaborate planning. Go early if you can, especially in summer. The light in late afternoon is rather special up there, but the path back down gets tricky when it's getting dark.