Thistley Hill

The walk up Thistley Hill rewards you with views that stretch right across the Eden Valley - proper Pennine scenery without the crowds you'd fight at Helvellyn or Scafell Pike. It's a straightforward climb from Appleby-in-Westmorland, taking the best part of an hour depending on your pace and how often you stop to catch your breath.

This is fell walking in its most accessible form. The summit sits at 1,207 feet, high enough to feel like an achievement but not so punishing that you'll be cursing yourself halfway up. Clear days are spectacular - you can trace the Eden Valley below, with the Pennines rolling away north and the Lake District fells visible if the light's right. The path's well-trodden but can get boggy after rain, so proper boots aren't optional.

Walkers of moderate fitness will find this genuinely enjoyable rather than a slog. Families with older kids who've done a few hills before will manage it fine. History buffs might appreciate the viaduct you can spot from up there - railway engineering on an impressive scale. If you're staying at Wild Rose Holiday Park, it's close enough for an afternoon sortie without eating up your whole day.

Allow two hours for the round trip if you're moving steadily. Spring and early summer are best - the moorland's at its most appealing, and you'll avoid the worst of the winter mud. There's no café or facilities at the top, so bring water and something to eat if you plan to linger.