Great Mell Fell

The walk up Great Mell Fell is deceptively quick. From the car park near Penrith, you're looking at roughly 45 minutes to the summit - steep in places, but nothing that demands mountaineering gear or serious fitness. The fell itself is a proper cone, which means it stands out noticeably from the surrounding Lake District fells. Once you're up there, the 500-metre vantage point gives you views across to Helvellyn and down towards Ullswater. On a clear day it's genuinely impressive.

Who gets the most from it? Families with kids aged eight-plus will manage the walk without complaint, though the final push is gnarly enough to keep things interesting. Walkers after a quick ascent without the full-day commitment will love it. History buffs less so - it's a straightforward hill walk rather than a site thick with stories.

The approach is from the north side, starting near the small village of Matterdale. Allow two hours for the round trip including summit time. There's no charge, no facilities at the top, so bring water and something to eat. The weather can change fast, even when it looks fine in Penrith.

If you're staying at Troutbeck Head or Beckses caravan parks nearby, this is an obvious half-day outing. Couple it with a visit to Ullswater Holiday Park's proximity to the lake itself, and you've got a solid day outdoors without driving miles. It's worth the detour, but don't expect a lengthy expedition.