The Lake District's finest attractions are its mountains. These fells range from gentle grassy hills to dramatic rocky peaks, and each has its own character. Walking and climbing are the main draws, but water-based activities are popular on the larger lakes too -- canoes, rowing boats, motor boats and sailing are common sights on Windermere, Derwentwater and Coniston Water. Water skiing is permitted on Lake Windermere.
Wind surfing, abseiling, mountain climbing and quad biking are among the more adventurous options, with numerous centres offering equipment hire and instruction.
Helvellyn
The second of the three Lake District mountains over 3,000 feet. Its popularity owes much to the ridges of Striding and Swirrel Edge. The walk up by Striding Edge and back by Swirrel Edge from Glenridding attracts masses of walkers and scramblers.
Scafell Pike
The highest point of England, relatively remote from any valley base and requiring a modicum of navigational expertise. The approach from Langdale or Borrowdale via Esk Hause involves the traverse of the bouldery shoulders of Broad Crag and Ill Crag.
Pillar
A justifiably popular hill. The best route is the traverse along the northern side to Robinson's Cairn and through dramatic rocky terrain to the col between Pillar Rock and the main summit.
Great Gable
One of the most striking and most popular mountains. The eastern slopes from Styhead are the most frequently used route, while the view from the Westmorland Cairn down into Wasdale is magnificent.
High Stile
The highest top of the long ridge along the south side of Buttermere. A fine ascent can be made by Sheepbone Rake on the north face of High Crag.
Blencathra
One of the most northerly mountains, interestingly shaped and falling just short of 3,000 feet. Two particularly fine walks are the direct ascent to Hall's Fell Top and the longer route up Sharp Edge.
Loughrigg Fell
One of the gentlest and most loved hills. The Loughrigg Terrace above Rydal Water is one of the easiest and most rewarding strolls in the area.
Pike o' Blisco
Often incorporated into a rewarding circuit around the head of Langdale taking in Crinkle Crags and Bowfell. Equally enjoyable as a short walk on its own.
Kirk Fell
Overshadowed by Great Gable and Pillar but conveniently combined with either. The traverse via Beck Head involves steep ground and easy scrambling.
High Raise
Perhaps the most central fell in the Lake District. Best approached over the more exciting Langdale Pikes, including the scramble up Jack's Rake on Pavey Ark.
Mellbreak
A rather isolated fell on the southern side of Crummock Water. Steep on every side, with superb views from the east ridge.
Seatallan
Not the most popular of fells, but an interesting ascent can be made over Buckbarrow with fine views of Wasdale.
Illgill Head
The spectacular Wastwater screes sweep down from the summit into the lake, making this one of the most photographed hills in the Lake District.
Hard Knott
Offers magnificent views of the Scafells and the impressive remains of a Roman fort on its slopes. Can be combined with Harter Fell in a splendid circuit from Eskdale.
Lingmoor Fell
Forms the southern side of Langdale. The ridge gives delightful views into both Langdale and Little Langdale.
Dent
One of Wainwright's Outlying Fells on the extreme western fringe of Lakeland, giving a splendid prospect of the western fells and a seaward view across the Solway.