Ullister Hill

Ullister Hill rises on the northern edge of the Lake District, just outside Cockermouth, and it's a straightforward fell walk rather than a technical climb. The summit sits at 356 metres - modest by Lakeland standards, but the views across to Skiddaw and the northern fells make the ascent worthwhile. On a clear day you can see the Solway Firth stretching away to the north.

This is proper walker country. The route takes roughly 90 minutes up and back, with a steady gradient that's manageable for reasonably fit families. It's the sort of hill that builds confidence without demanding scrambling or exposure. Kids aged eight and up will likely manage it without complaint, especially if you time it for a dry spell.

The walk works brilliantly as part of a longer Lake District trip based at one of the nearby campsites - Keswick Camping and Caravanning Club is just 3.4 miles away, making it an easy half-day outing. Whinfell Hall Farm and Kestrel Lodge are equally close. Pair it with a morning in Cockermouth itself, which has a decent high street and the birthplace of William Wordsworth if the weather turns.

There's no admission charge and no facilities on the hill itself - bring water and something to eat. Spring and early summer are best; winter can be bog-heavy after rain. The fell doesn't pull crowds the way the big named peaks do, which makes it genuinely pleasant. It's the sort of walk locals know and tourists mostly skip.