Bakestall

The fell walk up Bakestall from Keswick isn't long, but it's steep enough to demand proper respect. You're looking at roughly 1,500 feet of climbing over a couple of miles, which means even moderate walkers should allow a solid three hours for the round trip. The reward is a genuine Lake District summit with proper 360-degree views - Skiddaw dominates to the north, while the Helvellyn range spreads out across the horizon. On a clear day, you can pick out Catbells and the whole sweep of Derwent Water below.

What makes this peak worth the graft is that it catches fewer people than its flashier neighbours. No tourist hordes, no traffic jams at the car park. You get a real sense of having earned something. The path itself is well-trodden but unrelenting - loose scree in places, so proper boots make a difference. Families with young kids might struggle with the gradient, but capable children will love it.

The walk works brilliantly as part of a longer Keswick-based holiday. Base yourself at one of the nearby campsites - Kestrel Lodge is closest at under two miles - and you can tackle Bakestall on a morning when the weather's cooperative, then explore the valley or Derwent Water itself in the afternoon. It's not a tick-box summit, but it's a proper day out with genuine views. Allow a full morning minimum.