Holehouse Tarn

The walk down to Holehouse Tarn catches you off guard. One moment you're in bracken and moorland above Holmrook, the next you're standing at the edge of this proper little mountain lake, dark water reflecting the fell sides around it. It's not huge - you could walk the perimeter in under an hour - but there's something compelling about finding water this quiet tucked away in the Cumbrian landscape.

The tarn itself is the main draw here. Walkers treating it as a waypoint on longer routes outnumber those coming specifically for it, which means you'll have stretches to yourself. The water's too cold and probably too murky for swimming, but the rocky shores are good for sitting and watching. On a clear day the views back down the valley towards the coast are worth the trek up.

This isn't a destination for young children unless they're the outdoorsy sort - the approach isn't signposted and the terrain demands decent boots. But for fell walkers and photographers, especially those based at Fisherground Campsite nearby, it's a worthwhile detour off the main paths. The cloud comes in quickly here, so morning visits are smarter than afternoon ones.

Getting there takes concentration rather than effort. Allow two hours for the round trip if you're taking it slow and stopping to look about. It's free, naturally, and open whenever the weather permits. Spring and early summer are best - winter can make the approach genuinely tricky.