Castle How

Castle How is a modest fell summit just outside Keswick that rewards a couple of hours of walking with proper Lakeland views across to Skiddaw and Blencathra. The peak itself is unremarkable - a grassy bump with a few scattered rocks - but the walk up from the valley floor is straightforward enough for families who fancy something less demanding than the bigger fells nearby.

You'll find the path starts gently before climbing more steadily through open moorland. On a clear day the views back towards Keswick and across the northern lakes are genuine. The walk takes around two hours return from the nearest car park, so it's ideal for a half-day outing if you're based at somewhere like Kestrel Lodge Campsite or Skiddaw View Holiday Park rather than a full day expedition.

Historically, Castle How has iron age fort remains on the summit, though there's not much to see on the ground - you need to know what you're looking for. Walkers who enjoy fell-bagging will tick it off easily. Young children might find the ascent a slog for what amounts to a hill with minimal features, but keen hillwalkers after a quick circuit will find it sensible. The lack of crowds compared to Skiddaw's standard route is genuinely appealing if you want something quieter. Free to access as it's open fell. Go when the weather's dry - the moorland gets boggy fast after rain.