Barker Knott

Barker Knott is a modest fell that rises above Windermere, offering one of those walks that feels properly rewarding without demanding serious mountaineering credentials. The summit itself sits at around 400 metres - nothing that'll trouble experienced walkers, but enough to earn you genuine views across the lake and towards the higher peaks beyond.

You're looking at roughly two hours up and down from the Windermere side, through mixed woodland that can be muddy even days after rain. The final approach opens out onto bracken and bilberry, and on a clear day the views justify the scramble. Families with reasonably fit kids will manage it, though younger ones might find the steeper sections tedious. It's the sort of walk you do because you're based nearby for a few days, not because you'd drive an hour specially.

There's no charge, no facilities at the top - just bog standard fell rambling. Go early on weekends because the parking near Windermere fills up quickly. Spring and early summer are best, when the vegetation's not sodden and the light hangs about longer in the evening.

If you're staying at Damson View Glamping or Lakeland Glamping, this becomes a decent half-day outing between exploring the lake itself and heading towards Ambleside. It pairs well with the broader Windermere walking circuit - close enough to base yourself at Windermere Camping and Caravanning Club Site and tick off several fells across a week. Worth doing once if you're in the area; don't reroute your holiday to fit it in.