Calva Hill

The walk up Calva Hill isn't long, but it's properly steep in places - the sort of climb that has you breathing hard within ten minutes. From the top, though, you get views across the Lake District fells that make the huffing worthwhile, especially on a clear day when you can see right across towards Skiddaw.

It's not a technical walk by any means. Most people tackle it as a quick outing from Cockermouth, which sits just below the hill's northern slopes. The whole thing takes a couple of hours if you're not rushing, which leaves you time to sit about with a flask and actually look at the view rather than just snapping it for Instagram.

Families with children aged seven upwards will manage fine - younger kids might find the steepness a bit much. Walkers after an easy morning stroll with decent vistas will find it hits the mark. It's the sort of fell you climb when the weather's good, not when it's threatening rain.

If you're camping at Greysouthen Caravan Site just down the road, Calva Hill makes a natural day's activity without needing to drive anywhere. It's close enough for a half-day adventure that won't monopolise your holiday. Castle Guards Farm Retreat, slightly further out, gives you a quieter base for exploring this corner of the northern fells.

Free to walk, no facilities at the top, and best visited when Cumbria's not drowning in rain. Go early if the forecast looks uncertain - clouds roll in fast up here.