Simon Fell

The walk up Simon Fell doesn't announce itself with drama. You start from the lane near Carnforth and gradually realise you're climbing proper fellside - limestone grassland giving way to steeper ground as the peak reveals itself ahead. It's not a massive summit at 1,668 feet, but the effort is compact and the views across the Lune Valley are genuinely good, especially if you time it right and get clear weather.

This is walker territory, pure and simple. It's the kind of peak that local families tackle on a Sunday afternoon without fuss, and it works brilliantly if you're staying at one of the nearby campsites - Philpin Farm or Orcaber are close enough that you could be back for tea. The path is clear enough, though it gets a bit boggy in places after rain. Allow two hours return, maybe two and a half if you're not rushing.

Worth doing? If you're already in the area exploring the Yorkshire Dales and fancy something that won't take all day, yes. The limestone landscape here has real character - it's not the green rolling stuff you get further south. The peak itself is fairly exposed, so wind can pick up quickly, but that's half the appeal when you're looking back down towards Carnforth and the valley floor.

It's free, obviously - just park sensibly and respect the land. Go early if the weather's decent, because this isn't a secret and you won't be alone on fine weekends.