Nethermost Pike

The walk up Nethermost Pike from Penrith isn't what you'd call easy, but the fell above Helvellyn rewards the legwork with proper fell-walking terrain and views that stretch across the Lake District proper. You're looking at a serious hike - not a gentle stroll - and it'll take a full day to do it right. The route climbs steadily through moorland before the final push becomes properly steep. Summer's your best bet, when the weather's more forgiving and the days are long enough to account for the pace.

This one's for experienced walkers or fit hikers wanting to tick off a Lakeland peak without the chaos of the busier mountains nearby. Families with young kids will struggle - there's no cheating the distance or the gradient - but teenagers who've built up their stamina will find it satisfying. The summit itself isn't dramatic by Lake District standards, but on a clear day the visibility is excellent and you can pick out the geography properly.

It's free, of course - just turn up with decent boots and a map. Allow a full day, maybe seven hours round trip depending on your fitness and how long you loiter at the top. From Penrith town, you're looking at a 30-minute drive to the nearest trailhead. If you're camping at Sykeside or Crossgate, you're well-positioned for tackling the fells in this corner of the Lakes. Nethermost Pike works as part of a longer fell-walking holiday rather than a standalone afternoon's entertainment.