Beggarside Hill

The walk up Beggarside Hill from Milnthorpe is one of those local secrets that doesn't shout about itself. It's a proper fell rather than a dramatic peak - nothing that'll leave you gasping - but the views across the Kent estuary and towards Morecambe Bay make the climb worthwhile. Most people manage it in under an hour from the base, and there's a decent path most of the way up, though it gets a bit rougher closer to the summit.

You'll want sturdy boots. The terrain's moorland and bracken, with the occasional muddy stretch, and in wet weather it can be slippy. On a clear day the visibility is excellent - you can see right across the bay towards the Furness peninsula. It's the sort of walk that appeals to families with older kids and regular hikers more than casual strollers; the views are the main draw, and there's not much at the top itself beyond a cairn and breathing space.

Early morning is genuinely better here. The light's softer and you'll likely have the fell to yourself, especially midweek. Allow a couple of hours for a leisurely ascent and descent with time to sit and take it in. If you're based at Little Acre Holiday Park or Fell End just down the road, it's an excellent morning outing before heading into the Lakes proper. The whole thing is free, naturally, and the walk connects reasonably well with other routes through the Dallam Tower estate if you fancy extending your time out.