Symonds Knott

The walk up Symonds Knott is short, sharp, and exactly what you want if you're based around Ambleside but don't fancy a full day's expedition. You're looking at a proper fell, not a gentle stroll - the climb is steep enough to get your heart going, but you'll be at the summit in under an hour from the car park. The views across the Langdale valleys are genuinely worth the leg work, with Bowfell dominating the skyline and the whole valley spread out below like a map. Walkers make this their warm-up before tackling the bigger peaks, and that's smart thinking. It's the sort of climb that leaves you feeling accomplished without leaving you knackered. Families with kids who can handle a proper incline will do well here. Younger children or those after something gentler might find it a bit steep for the reward, though the summit views do impress. Allow an hour and a half to two hours for the round trip if you're not particularly speedy. Coming from Great Langdale Campsite or Fisherground - both are brilliant bases for this area - you're within easy reach. Early morning is your best bet if you want to avoid the crowds; the Langdale valley attracts plenty of walkers, and the popular routes fill up quickly. There's no charge for the walk itself. Go when the weather's decent - cloud cover makes the views pointless, and the path gets slippery in wet conditions.