Birkrigg

Birkrigg stands about 600 metres above Dalton-in-Furness, a proper little hill that punches above its weight. The walk up takes less than an hour from the car park, and you climb through woodland before emerging onto open moorland - the kind of place where the wind picks up and you suddenly feel very small. At the summit there's an Iron Age fort, which is genuinely interesting if you like that sort of thing, though honestly the views across Morecambe Bay toward the Lake District peaks are the real draw. On a clear day it's cracking. On a misty one, you'll understand why people get lost out here.

It's not a destination that'll keep the family entertained for hours. Kids who enjoy a bit of scrambling and don't mind a muddy path will have fun; little ones might find the ascent tedious. The moorland itself is exposed, so come prepared for weather. Allow two hours return if you're taking your time, less if you're fit and determined. There's free access and no formal facilities at the top - bring a packed lunch if you want to sit up there. The nearby holiday parks at Haven Lakeland Leisure Park and Old Park Wood Caravan Holiday Park give you a decent base for exploring the southern Lake District without the crowds that come with Windermere. Birkrigg works well as a half-day walk alongside other local bits - Dalton Castle is just in town if you fancy something short after.