Ox Hill

The walk up Ox Hill from Cockermouth takes you through proper fell country without the crowds you'd fight on the bigger peaks. It's a modest height - 571 metres - but don't let that fool you into thinking it's a gentle stroll. The ascent is steep in places and the paths can be boggy, especially after rain, which means proper boots aren't optional.

What makes it worthwhile is the view. From the top you get sweeping vistas across the Lake District fells, and on a clear day the perspective shifts how you understand the geography of the whole area. The moorland plateau has that exposed, windswept character that some find exhilarating and others find a bit bleak - depends on your mood and the weather.

Walkers with decent fitness will get the most from this. It's not a family afternoon option unless your kids are already doing Ben Nevis-sized walks. Allow two to three hours for the round trip. Go early if you can, especially in summer, because the narrow paths get congested and the experience suffers for it.

Staying at Greysouthen Caravan Site just outside town puts you perfectly positioned for this walk - you're minutes from the trailhead. If Ox Hill suits you, Castle Guards Farm Retreat and Whinfell Hall Farm Campsite give you good bases for exploring the wider fells around Cockermouth.