King's How

The walk up King's How takes about forty minutes from the car park near Borrowdale, and the effort feels entirely justified once you're standing at the summit. It's a modest peak by Lake District standards - only 358 metres - but what makes it special is the view. You're looking straight down into Borrowdale, with Derwent Water catching the light beyond, and the whole thing feels properly balanced rather than just a climb for climbing's sake.

The path itself is straightforward enough, though it's steep in places and can get boggy if the weather's been poor. The woodland section is pleasant, but the exposed final push means you'll want decent boots and weather sense. Families with younger kids might find it a touch ambitious, but those aged eight or nine upwards will manage fine. There's a real sense of achievement at the top, which kids respond to well.

Histoy buffs will appreciate that the fell was named after a local character, though King's How isn't thick with historical markers - it's more about the landscape itself. History comes from the views rather than plaques.

If you're staying at Castlerigg Hall or Keswick Camping just down the road, it's a cracking half-day activity. The fell works brilliantly as part of a longer Borrowdale day rather than a standalone trip. The nearest town is Keswick, about fifteen minutes' drive away. Free to visit, naturally - just the effort required.