Birk Rigg

The walk up Birk Rigg from Kendal is a cracking little fell that most Lake District visitors completely miss. You're looking at a proper steep push for about 45 minutes, depending on your fitness, but the payoff is genuine - sweeping views across the valley toward Windermere and the higher fells beyond. On a clear day you can pick out the shape of the bigger peaks. It's moorland walking, bracken underfoot in summer, and the path isn't crowded like some of the more famous summits.

This one suits experienced fell walkers more than casual strollers. There's no tarmac or easy grades here - it's genuine climbing. Children will manage it if they're used to hills, but a family after a leisurely morning won't find it straightforward. Allow a couple of hours for the round trip including time to stand about at the top and actually look at the view rather than just ticking it off.

The nearest town is Kendal, which sits bang at the gateway to the Lake District, and there's a decent cluster of holiday parks within a few miles - Limefitt and White Cross Bay are the closest options if you're after a base. Birk Rigg works brilliantly as part of a proper walking holiday rather than a quick afternoon job. Park at Kendal and head out early, especially if you're combining it with other walks in the area. The fell gets wind-exposed so check the weather before you go. It's free to walk and open year-round, though winter conditions will make the steeper sections genuinely sketchy.