Branstree

Branstree sits at 902 metres in the High Street range, a proper fell that demands respect but rewards you thoroughly if you're willing to put in the graft. It's not a casual stroll - the approach from Mardale Head involves serious climbing, particularly on the steeper sections where the path gets rough underfoot. Once you're up there, though, the views stretch across to High Street itself and down into Haweswater Reservoir, which looks like someone's carved it into the landscape with a knife.

You're looking at a good three to four hours for most walkers, maybe longer if you're breaking it up and taking time to breathe at the top. It's a fell for people who actually want to climb a fell, not for those after a gentle ramble. Families with older kids (say, teenagers with hiking experience) can manage it, but younger ones will find it tough going. The summit itself is less dramatic than some - no dramatic views straight down a cliff edge - but the sense of having earned your vantage point makes it worthwhile.

There's no facility up there, so bring water and decent snacks. The nearby camping at Sykeside (under five miles from Kendal) and the slightly fancier Crossgate Luxury Glamping offer good bases for tackling the High Street fells. If you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Limefitt, you're well-positioned too. October through April offers the clearest air, though conditions change fast in these hills. Don't underestimate it.