Gavins Loch

The water at Gavins Loch sits dark and still, ringed by rough moorland that feels properly remote despite being only a few miles from Carlisle. It's a small lake - no fancy visitor centre or cafe, just you and the hills and whatever weather the Lake District fringe decides to throw at you that day.

Walkers love it. The loch makes for a straightforward circuit that takes the better part of an hour if you're moving at a reasonable pace, and the terrain around it is well-trodden enough not to be treacherous. On a clear day you can see across the water to the Pennines beyond, which is exactly why locals bother making the drive out here rather than heading further south to the more obvious tourist spots.

Families with young kids might find it a bit limited - there's no playground, no ice cream van, no reason to stay more than 90 minutes unless you're serious walkers. But older children who can handle a proper walk without moaning will appreciate how quiet it is. Fishermen come here too, which tells you the loch's got some merit beyond just the view.

All three caravan parks nearby - High Gaitle, Camelot, and Glendale - make reasonable bases if you're spending a week in the area and want a proper walking break without the crowds of the central lakes. High Gaitle and Camelot both rate well, so you've got options. It costs nothing to visit, and there are no opening hours to worry about. Go when the light's decent and the midges haven't arrived.