Smithy Fell

The walk up Smithy Fell from Cockermouth takes you straight into proper Lakeland fell country without needing a full day of it. It's a modest peak by Lake District standards - nothing that'll leave you gasping - but the climb itself is straightforward and rewards you with decent views across the northern fells towards Skiddaw and the higher peaks beyond.

What you're doing here is a circular walk rather than a destination in itself. The fell offers open moorland once you get above the tree line, with rough grass underfoot and enough elevation to feel like you've actually earned the view. Most walkers allow two to three hours for a round trip, depending on fitness and whether you're stopping to admire the vistas. There's something satisfying about climbing a fell that doesn't require specialist kit or ropes - just steady legs and decent boots.

This suits families with older kids who can manage a proper hill walk, or anyone based at Whinfell Hall Farm Campsite just down the road who wants something more interesting than a stroll but less demanding than tackling Skiddaw. The moorland can be boggy in wet weather, so check conditions first. Winter makes it trickier without proper hill experience.

As a park holiday activity, it fills a gap perfectly. You're not spending a whole day on it, but you're getting genuine fell walking. Combine it with exploring Cockermouth itself - the town's got character and some decent pubs - and you've got a solid half-day sorted. Greysouthen Caravan Site, further out, also has good access if you fancy basing yourself there.