Old Man of Coniston

The walk up Old Man of Coniston is properly demanding, and that's before you even reach the summit. You're looking at a solid four to five hours from the car park near Coniston village, depending on fitness and how often you stop to catch your breath. The peak itself - 902 metres - sits in the southern Lake District and rewards those who make the effort with views that stretch across the fells towards Ambleside and beyond.

What makes this one worthwhile is the variety. You'll pass old slate mines on the way up, remnants from when these hills were working landscape rather than just somewhere to admire. The descent's slightly easier on the legs than the push up, which is the kind of mercy these mountains occasionally grant. Allow a full day if you're not rushed, and bring proper boots - it's boggy in places and can turn treacherous when wet.

Serious walkers and fell-runners get the most from Coniston's Old Man. Young kids will struggle unless they're already accustomed to steep terrain, though the slate mines can spark interest in the older ones. It's free, naturally - it's a mountain. Come in settled weather; the cloud rolls in fast here and visibility disappears entirely.

If you're based at Great Langdale Campsite or any of the other sites scattered around here, this is a proper objective for a day out. Pair it with a quieter amble round Coniston Water on an easier afternoon, and you've got a balanced break.