Leece Tarn

A small upland lake sitting at about 300 metres elevation in the fells above Dalton-in-Furness. Leece Tarn is the sort of place that rewards walkers willing to leave the main paths - it's not dramatic, but there's something quietly absorbing about it. The water's dark and still most days, ringed by rough moorland grass and the occasional Scots pine. You won't find crowds here, which is rather the point.

The walk from Dalton takes you up through farming land and then proper fell country. Allow two to three hours for a decent circular route if you're starting from town. It's a solid walk without being punishing - expect muddy patches in winter and the usual Cumbrian boggy bits. The views back towards Morecambe Bay are decent, though nothing that'll make you gasp.

This works best for walkers who prefer solitude over spectacle, and for anyone exploring the quieter corners of South Cumbria away from the Lake District crush. Kids might find it a bit underwhelming as a standalone destination - it's more of a worthwhile leg on a longer fell walk than a destination in itself. If you're based at High Haume Glamping, it's a proper morning out rather than a quick jaunt.

Access appears to be free, though there's no obvious infrastructure - bring water and check conditions before you go. Winter can make it fairly boggy and uninviting. Spring and early autumn are your best bets for a clean, dry experience. The tarn itself isn't swimmable in any practical sense, so go for the walk, not the water.