Low Pike

Standing at 508 metres, this modest fell above Ambleside delivers proper Lake District views without the tourist crowds that plague its more famous neighbours. The climb takes about 45 minutes from Rydal village - a steady but manageable ascent that won't leave you gasping.

From the summit, you'll get cracking views across Windermere and Grasmere, with the Langdale Pikes forming a dramatic backdrop. It's particularly lovely in early morning when the light catches the water below and the fells are often shrouded in mist.

Walking enthusiasts will appreciate this as a gentle warm-up fell or a satisfying short day out. Families with older children (say 10+) should manage it fine, though the final section gets a bit rocky. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, including time to appreciate the views and maybe a sandwich at the top.

The beauty of Low Pike lies in its accessibility from Ambleside - you can tackle it as a morning walk and still have the afternoon for other Lake District pursuits. Perfect if you're staying at places like Lakeside Retreat Glamping or Skelwith Fold Caravan Park, where you'll want variety in your walking programme. It won't feature in any 'best of' lists, but sometimes that's exactly what makes a fell worth climbing.