Tom Ghyll Waterfalls

Three separate waterfalls tumble down the fellside in a series of rocky pools and cascades that make for a proper Lake District experience without the crowds. Tom Ghyll sits between Ambleside and Grasmere, accessed via a well-marked but fairly steep path that'll get your heart pumping. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way, following the beck upstream through woodland before opening out to reveal the falls.

Walkers and photographers will get the most from this spot - the upper falls are particularly striking after heavy rain when the water really thunders down. Families with older children who don't mind a bit of scrambling will enjoy it too, though toddlers might struggle with the rocky terrain near the water.

Allow a good two to three hours for the round trip if you want time to sit and appreciate the setting. The path can be slippery when wet, so decent walking boots are essential. Early morning visits often reward you with the best light for photos and fewer people sharing the viewpoints.

If you're staying at one of the nearby sites like Lakeside Retreat Glamping or the campsite at Great Langdale, Tom Ghyll makes a cracking half-day excursion. It's well worth combining with a visit to Ambleside for lunch afterwards - the town's only a short drive from the trailhead.