Moor Top

Rolling moorland opens up just north of Ambleside, where this elevated picnic spot gives proper views across the fells without the crowds that plague the more famous viewpoints. The grassy plateau sits comfortably above the valley floor, making it a cracking place to spread out a blanket and watch the world go by.

Families will find plenty of space for kids to run about safely - no cliff edges or steep drops to worry about. Dog walkers love it too, as there's room to let pets off the lead without bothering other visitors. The walk up from the road isn't too taxing, though it's worth noting the ground can get boggy after rain.

Bring your own supplies as there's nothing here but grass, sky and that lovely Lake District air. An hour or two is plenty for most people, though fell runners often use it as a starting point for longer routes into the surrounding hills.

Staying at one of the holiday parks around Windermere or Ambleside? Moor Top makes a nice change from the busier lakeside spots. It's close enough to Parkdean's Fallbarrow or White Cross Bay parks for an easy afternoon trip, but feels worlds away from the tourist trail. Pack a thermos - you'll want to linger when the light hits the fells just right.