Heughscar Hill

The walk up Heughscar Hill from Penrith is a proper little lung-burner, but it's over quickly and the payoff is decent. You're looking at a genuine fell with proper views across the Eden Valley toward the Lake District fells - on a clear day you'll spot Helvellyn and its mates dominating the horizon. The summit sits around 700 metres, which sounds more impressive than it actually feels when you're trudging up the final bit, but the moorland turf underfoot is lovely and the path is clear enough.

This isn't a destination for the idle - you need to actually walk to get anywhere, and the ascent climbs steadily without letup. Allow a good hour up and 45 minutes back down, depending on fitness. Walkers who fancy something proper but aren't ready for the full Lake District Circuit will get genuine satisfaction from this one. Families with teenagers who can manage a decent incline will find it manageable; younger kids might struggle with the relentlessness of it.

If you're based at Park Foot or Waterfoot just over the road from Penrith, this works as an excellent morning sortie before heading to Ullswater Holiday Park area or Lowther for the afternoon. It's free, accessible year-round, and gives you a real sense of the Pennine edge without the commitment of a full day in the mountains. Worth the detour if you're in the zone, but don't expect crowds or facilities up top.