Selside Pike

The walk up Selside Pike isn't what you'd call gentle, but the climb from Penrith side rewards you with proper fell views across the Lake District. It's a modest peak at 1,934 feet - nothing that'll flatten you if you're reasonably fit, though the final push is steep enough to notice your legs afterwards.

What makes it worthwhile is the isolation. You won't be jostling with crowds here like you would on Helvellyn or Catbells. The summit itself is a rocky outcrop with decent visibility on a clear day - south towards the Pennines, north towards Ullswater. The whole round trip takes between three and four hours depending on your pace and how many times you stop for breath.

It's best tackled in summer months when the paths are dry underfoot; spring and autumn can be boggy in places. Stick to established routes - the fell can be confusing in mist. You'll want proper walking boots and water. There's free access - it's fell walking, not a commercial attraction.

Walkers after something more challenging than a park stroll will appreciate this. Families with older kids (secondary school age upwards) can manage it fine if they're used to walking, but younger children might find it a slog. If you're camping at Sykeside or glamping at Crossgate, both nearby, this makes a good morning's activity before heading back for lunch. It's the sort of walk where you actually feel like you've done something proper.