Great Knott

The walk up Great Knott from Ambleside is one of those proper Lake District ascents that doesn't take half the day but gives you views that feel like you've earned them. At 587 metres, it's not a bruiser, but the path is steep enough that your legs will know about it, especially in the first half hour.

You'll find yourself scrambling through woodland before the terrain opens up. The ridge itself is narrow and rocky - nothing technical, but it keeps things interesting. On a clear day the views of the Langdale Pikes and across to the central fells are excellent. The sort of vistas that make you understand why people move to this corner of Cumbria.

It's a walker's peak rather than a stroll. Families with confident youngsters will manage it in about two hours up and back, though smaller legs might find the steepness wearing. The rock-hopping appeals to kids who like scrambling, but it's not a route for a lazy afternoon wandering. Allow three hours if you're not racing.

If you're based at Great Langdale Campsite or BaysBrown Farm Campsite - both within striking distance - this works as a brilliant half-day objective. Pair it with an afternoon in Ambleside proper rather than spending the whole day on fell. The descent is quicker than the climb, so you won't get back too late for tea.

Free, obviously. Start early if you're going in summer - the car park at Millans fills by mid-morning.