Raven Crag

The walk up Raven Crag from Keswick is straightforward enough - most people tackle it as a half-day job rather than a serious fell expedition. You're looking at roughly two hours up and back, though fit walkers do it faster. The peak itself sits at 384 metres, which sounds modest until you're climbing it in damp weather and your legs start complaining.

What makes it worthwhile is the view north across Derwentwater towards Blencathra and the higher fells. On a clear day it's genuinely striking. The rock formations that give the crag its name are worth examining up close too - weathered and craggy, proper Lakeland character. Children tend to enjoy the scramble to the summit, especially if you frame it as a proper adventure rather than a gentle ramble.

The path is well-trodden and marked, starting from near Castlerigg stone circle to the south east. It's steep in places but nothing technical. Allow longer if you're with young kids or want to explore Castlerigg Hall's excellent facilities afterwards - they've got decent camping and glamping options just 2.7 miles away.

Best tackled in morning light when the views are sharpest and before cloud rolls in. It's free, obviously - it's a fell. Worth doing if you're based in Keswick for a week and want something between an easy stroll and a proper mountain day. Solo walkers and families with older kids get the most from it.