Great Carrs

Great Carrs sits at 2,569 feet above Langdale, a serious fell rather than a gentle lakeland stroll. The walk up from Great Langdale is relentless and rocky in places, but the summit rewards you with views across the central fells that justify every burning calf muscle.

This is walkers' territory, pure and simple. You'll see fell runners here, experienced hikers, and the odd determined family. It's not a summit for the casual visitor who's just wandered up from Ambleside for a gentle afternoon. Allow three to four hours for the round trip from the valley floor - longer if you're not used to steep ground.

The terrain demands proper boots and respect for the weather. Cloud can roll in fast, and the descent requires concentration. On a clear day, though, you get views north to the Scafells and west across to Coniston Old Man. That's worth the graft.

Great Carrs works best as part of a wider Langdale day out. Base yourself at Great Langdale Campsite or BaysBrown Farm Campsite, both within a couple of miles, and tackle it when conditions are decent. This isn't a peak you'd visit twice in a fortnight, but it's the kind of fell that stays with you. No facilities at the top, no café, no shortcuts - just good honest fell-walking in the heart of the Lake District.