Lofshaw Hill

Standing at 540 metres above sea level, this fell offers one of the more accessible hill walks in the northern Lakes without the crushing crowds of its famous neighbours. The route up from Threlkeld village is straightforward enough for family groups, though you'll need proper boots - the path can get boggy after rain.

From the summit cairn, you get cracking views across to Blencathra and down the length of Thirlmere. It's not the most dramatic peak you'll tackle in the Lakes, but that's rather the point. Keen walkers often use it as a warm-up before tackling something more serious, while families appreciate that younger legs can manage the climb without too much moaning.

Allow two to three hours for the round trip from Threlkeld, depending on how long you linger at the top. The descent is kind on the knees, and there's a decent pub in the village if you've worked up a thirst. Best visited on clear days - in mist, you're essentially climbing uphill to see nothing at all.

Staying at one of the holiday parks near Penrith puts you within easy striking distance, with Troutbeck Head and Beckses Caravan Park both under two miles away. It makes for a good morning's exercise before an afternoon by Ullswater.