Biskey Howe

Twenty minutes of steady climbing through woodland brings you to what locals reckon is one of the finest lake views in the southern Lakes. Biskey Howe sits just above Windermere, offering a cracking panorama across England's largest natural lake without the crowds that pack Orrest Head. The path winds through oak and birch before opening onto a grassy knoll where the whole of Windermere spreads out below - from the busy southern end near Bowness right up to Ambleside in the distance. It's proper lovely up here, especially on a clear morning when the fells reflect in the water. Families with reasonably fit kids will manage the walk fine, though it's a bit steep in places. The summit itself is small, so don't expect to spread out a massive picnic, but there's enough space for a quick sandwich and some photos. Best tackled early morning or late afternoon when the light's at its most dramatic. You'll have the place largely to yourself compared to the tourist honey pots down in Bowness. If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Fallbarrow or White Cross Bay, this makes a brilliant half-day excursion. Allow about an hour and a half return trip from Windermere town centre.