Enchanting ESKDALE

This corner of the Lake District, with England's highest peak, is perfect for a nature-fuelled stay

- CHRIS MORLEY

Set in the Lakes' 'Wild West', Eskdale offers easy rambles, dips in the clear waters of the Esk, and hikes to England's highest peaks. Sprinkle in attractions like a mini steam train and a haunted castle, and you have all the ingredients for a brilliant break.

Hiking heaven

Running from the desolate crags of Scafell to coastal Ravenglass, Eskdale is remote and rural. The largest hamlets – Boot and Eskdale Green – have only a handful of buildings, so it’s the glorious scenery that takes centre stage. Lowland pastures edged by dry-stone walls flicker with ferns and wild yellow poppies, while fells glint with becks and tarns.

The biggest draw is Scafell Pike, England's tallest mountain at 978m, which attracts around 250,000 walkers to its summit each year. But there are many more, less crowded heights to scale, including Scafell, only a smidge lower at 964m. If you're up for a challenge, a circular route from Boot takes seven hours to the top and back.

Riverside rambles