Toot Hill

The walk up Toot Hill from Wigton is a proper fell ramble rather than a gruelling slog - the kind of thing you can knock out in an afternoon without needing rock-climbing gear or months of training. At 1,312 feet, it's modest by Lake District standards, but the views across the northern fells and down towards the Solway Firth make the climb worthwhile.

You'll likely approach from the Caldbeck side, which puts you within spitting distance of Caldbeck Camping if you're based locally. The path is straightforward enough, though it can be boggy after rain - nothing shocking, just the reality of Cumbrian hills. On a clear day the vista stretches properly far. On a grey one, you're mostly staring into cloud.

This suits walkers who know what they're after: a brisk uphill push with decent payoff, not a leisurely stroll. Families with young kids might find the climb tedious, and honestly, if you're already staying near Whinfell Hall Farm or Riverside Tourer Park, you could easily spend the morning on Toot Hill and the afternoon exploring better-known spots nearby without losing much.

It's free, naturally - just park sensibly and go. Allow a couple of hours there and back depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top. Best tackled when the weather's settled; there's nothing appealing about being on any Cumbrian fell in horizontal rain with poor visibility.