Birks (summit)

The walk up Birks is a proper little cracker if you're staying around Penrith and fancy a half-day out without the full-on fell commitment. It's a 2,346-footer that sits just above Patterdale, steep enough to feel like a proper climb but short enough that you won't lose the will to live on the way up.

You get real views from the top - the Helvellyn range spreads out nicely, and on a clear day the whole valley opens up below you. The route's straightforward: park near Patterdale village and head straight into it. Expect about ninety minutes up if you're moving steadily, another hour down if you take it easy. Your legs will know they've done something, but nothing that'll wreck you.

Walkers will genuinely rate this one. Families with kids aged eight-plus can absolutely manage it, though younger ones might struggle with the gradient in places. If you're not a walker, honestly, don't bother - it's the climb that's the point here, not some viewing platform at the top.

Stay at Crossgate Luxury Glamping just down the road and you've got the Lakeland hiking on your doorstep without faffing about with a tent in drizzle. Sykeside Camping Park works too if you're watching the budget. Do Birks as your warm-up walk, then tackle something bigger the next day. It's free, obviously - just rock up and go. Best in summer when the ground's dry; autumn can be slippery.