Hillbeck Fell

The walk up Hillbeck Fell from Kirkby Stephen is proper straightforward, which makes it all the more baffling why so few people bother. It's a modest peak by Pennine standards - 473 metres - but the ascent moves quickly and the ridge walk at the top commands views across upper Wensleydale that genuinely catch you off guard. On a clear day you're looking east towards the High Pennines and west towards the Lake District fells.

The approach works best from the north, parking near Kirkby Stephen itself. Allow ninety minutes for the round trip if you're not stopping much, longer if you want to sit about and actually look at things. It's not a technical scramble by any measure, just a solid moorland hike with decent paths that don't disappear into bog too often. The grass gets steep enough towards the top to make your thighs complain a bit, but children who can manage a few hills will be absolutely fine.

Walkers and hikers get the most from it - this isn't a destination for a family wanting rides and ice cream. What you're really here for is space and quiet. Hillbeck Fell rarely feels crowded even on weekends. The fell tops of Cumbria have that effect. If you're based at Gillcumber Glamping Pods down the road, it's an easy morning outing before breakfast and a proper way to settle into a walking holiday. No fees, no nonsense. Just get your boots on and go.